India’s largest two wheelers manufacturer Hero Motocorp. has signed a technology pact with US-based Erik Buell Racing (EBR). The technology pact is signed to with the aim of sourcing technology of high end motorcycles and then leverage it into the low end motorcycles which Hero Motocorp. is currently producing. The company will roll out a commuter motorcycle next year which will be based upon EBR technology. Technology sourced from the EBR will also used in the its upcoming hybrid scooter “LEAP” which Hero Motocorp. showcased as concept hybrid scooter at Auto Expo 2012.
Pawan Munjal, managing director and chief executive, Hero MotoCorp. said “This is a flexible partnership and though EBR specialises in high-end bike technology, it can also be adapted to low end specification products, which are our forte. By next year you will see a commuter segment motorcycle that is run on an adapted EBR technology. Our ambition is to become an international player and EBR will help us go beyond 100-250cc bikes.”
He also added that “This will not only make us relevant in international markets but also for Indian consumers looking to upgrade. For lower end bikes we are looking at other technology firms. We will not replace the current technology with just one technology source, but we are looking at multiple technology tie ups to go for specialized technologies wherever available.”
Eric Buell Racing is company formed by Erik Buell. He was a motorcycle racer before and he wanted to design bikes for himself. This leads to a company which is today called as Eric Buell Racing. It produces street and racing motorcycles. Currently it has motorcycle model as 1190RS which produced at East Troy, Wisconsin. It is also planning to introduce three more models of motorcycles. The company is known for its racing technologies.
It is to be noted that Hero Motocorp. is looking for technology partners across the globe since it ended its 26 year old Joint venture with Honda Motor Corporation of Japan last year. It is in process of brand building. IT has launched few motorcycles under its brand name and it is in process of changing name of CD-Dawn, CBZ and Karizma ZMR since the right of name is owned by Honda Motor Corporation of Japan. It also wants to replace technology of its current motorcycle before the June 2014 till which time it has license to use Honda technology. It seems that we will see more technology pact from Hero Motocorp in upcoming days.
– Mahavir Kothari
