Hero MotoCorp, India’s leading motorcycle brand, and the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has commenced operations in the Philippines.
The brand hopes to make inroads into the country’s competitive motorcycle market starting with three competitively priced models: the Xpulse 200 4V, Hunk 160R 4V and the Xoom 110 scooter. All three models are locally assembled from complete knockdown kits (CKD) and are now available at over 350 authorized retailers.
Hero MotoCorp’s local partner and exclusive distributor is Terrafirma Motors Corporation (TMC), a part of the Columbian Group of Companies. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards strengthening its global presence.
A state-of-the-art assembly unit and parts warehouse has been set-up at Terrafirma Motors Corporation, in Laguna, Philippines. Spread over 6,000 sq. mtrs, the facility will have an annual capacity of over 150,000 units annually. The Philippine facility is Hero’s first in Southeast Asia. The company also commenced the retail sales to customers this week.
Competitive lineup
Leading the lineup is the Xpulse 200 4V. It's powered by a 199.6cc engine that produces 18.9-bhp and 17.35-Nm of torque. It's linked to a five-speed transmission. It rides on 37mm telescopic forks in front and a monoshock in the rear. It rolls on 21-inch wheels in front and 18-inch wheels in the rear. It's available at an attractive on-road price of P140,000.
The Hunk 160R 4V is powered by a 163.2cc air-cooled engine that produces 15-bhp and 14-Nm of torque. It's linked to a 5-speed transmission. It has disc brakes at the front and rear with ABS. It's priced at a competitive P99,900.
Easily the most accessible is the Xoom 110 scooter. It is powered by a 110cc air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that produces 8.1-bhp and 8.7-Nm of torque linked to a CVT. It's priced at just P69,900.
All motorcycles come with a warranty of two years or 24,000 kms.
“The commencement of operations in the Philippines will bolster our overall global presence,” said Niranjan Gupta, Chief Executive Officer, Hero MotoCorp. “Hero MotoCorp, with its diverse and tech-driven product portfolio, is committed to delivering the best-in-class mobility solutions and hassle-free aftersales services to ensure a delightful ownership experience. In Terrafirma Motors Corporation (TMC), we have a strong partner and together with them we will rapidly create and strengthen our presence in this key market.”
“We are delighted to partner with Hero MotoCorp, one of the leading automotive companies in the world,” said Bienvenido Sanvictores Santos, Chairman, Terrafirma Motors Corporation. “Hero’s products are renowned for their technology and reliability and we are confident that customers in the Philippines will love these motorcycles and scooters. Combining Hero MotoCorp’s global expertise with our local knowledge, we intend to make an impact in the market.”
Hero MotoCorp is currently present in 48 countries around the world with Tech Centres in India and Germany and manufacturing facilities in India, Colombia and Bangladesh.