Hero MotoCorp , India's leading two-wheeler manufacturer, has reported strong sales figures for August while continuing to advocate for GST reforms that could benefit the automotive industry. The company's Chairman, Pawan Munjal, has expressed strong support for the government's consideration of GST rate reductions on two-wheelers, emphasizing the potential positive impact on the sector and consumers.

August Sales Performance

Hero MotoCorp reported August sales of 5,53,727 units, an 8% increase from 5,12,360 units in the same month last year. The sales figures exceeded market estimates of 5,30,300 units for the month, showcasing the company's strong performance in the two-wheeler market.

Potential Benefits of GST Reduction

Munjal highlighted several key advantages that could result from a GST rate cut:

1. Improved Affordability: A lower GST rate would make two-wheelers more accessible to a broader range of consumers, particularly benefiting first-time buyers.

2. Rural and Semi-Urban Impact: The chairman emphasized that reduced taxes would provide significant relief to customers in rural and semi-urban areas, where two-wheelers are often essential for personal mobility.

3. Economic Stimulus: Munjal pointed out that the two-wheeler industry is a crucial economic driver, contributing substantially to government revenues and employment generation.

Current GST Structure

The existing GST framework for two-wheelers is as follows:

Upcoming GST Council Meeting

The GST Council is scheduled to convene on September 3-4 to discuss potential reforms. These discussions are expected to focus on restructuring the tax rates for most goods, potentially shifting them into either the 5% or 18% tax brackets. This meeting could prove pivotal for the two-wheeler industry if favorable decisions are made regarding tax rates.

Industry Implications

A reduction in GST rates for two-wheelers could have far-reaching effects on the industry:

• Sales Boost: Lower prices could stimulate demand, potentially leading to increased sales volumes for manufacturers like Hero MotoCorp.
• Market Expansion: Improved affordability might open up new market segments, particularly in price-sensitive rural and semi-urban areas.
• Economic Ripple Effect: Increased two-wheeler sales could have positive knock-on effects for related industries and overall economic growth.

As the industry awaits the outcome of the GST Council meeting, stakeholders remain hopeful that the government will consider the potential benefits of a tax reduction for this crucial sector of the Indian economy. Meanwhile, Hero MotoCorp's strong August sales performance demonstrates the company's resilience and market strength in the current economic climate.

Hero MotoCorp , the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has unveiled its latest offering in the 125cc segment - the all-new Glamour X 125. Positioned as India's most futuristic 125cc motorcycle, this launch marks a significant step in Hero's strategy to expand its reach across various sub-segments in the growing 125cc motorcycle market.

Cutting-Edge Technology

The Glamour X 125 introduces several first-in-segment innovations that set it apart in the competitive 125cc category:

• World's First Low Battery Kick Startability: Powered by AERA (Advanced Electronic Ride Assist) Tech, this feature ensures worry-free starts even with a low battery.
• Ride-by-Wire Technology: Offers precise throttle response for enhanced control.
• Cruise Control: A premium feature typically found in higher-end motorcycles, now available in the 125cc segment.
• Three Ride Modes: Eco, Road, and Power modes allow riders to adapt the bike's performance to various riding conditions.
• Panic Brake Alert System: Enhances safety by warning trailing vehicles during emergency braking situations.

Performance and Design

The Glamour X 125 is powered by a Sprint-EBT engine, delivering 11.4 BHP at 8250 RPM. This powerplant combines performance, refinement, and fuel efficiency, featuring:

• Tuned cam profile and optimized gear ratios for instant throttle response
• Silent cam chain and balancer shaft for exceptional NVH refinement
• Distinctive, bass-rich exhaust note for a big-bike character

The motorcycle's design exudes a commanding road presence with its muscular stance, sharp character lines, and sculpted bodywork. It features a Signature 'H' Full LED Lighting Package, including a high-intensity headlamp, integrated position lights, and a stylish LED tail lamp.

Smart Features

The Glamour X 125 comes equipped with a Multi-Colour LCD instrument cluster offering:

• Bluetooth connectivity
• Turn-by-Turn Navigation
• Distance-to-Empty indicator
• Gear Position Advisory
• Ambient light sensor

Pricing and Availability

Hero MotoCorp has priced the Glamour X 125 competitively:

The motorcycle is now available across Hero MotoCorp dealerships nationwide.

Strategic Importance

Ashutosh Varma, Chief Business Officer, India Business Unit at Hero MotoCorp, emphasized the strategic importance of this launch: "The 125cc segment continues to be a growth engine for the motorcycle industry, attracting both aspirational first-time buyers and value-conscious upgraders. The new Glamour X introduces innovative technology, first-in-segment features, and a bold new striking design. This strategy expands the brand's reach across various sub-segments, boosting volumes and market share while further strengthening the company's leadership."

With the launch of the Glamour X 125, Hero MotoCorp aims to build upon the Glamour brand's legacy, which has already garnered over 8 million satisfied customers. This new offering is set to redefine the standards in the 125cc segment, combining style, innovation, and performance to meet the evolving needs of Indian riders.

As Hero MotoCorp continues to innovate and expand its product lineup, the company remains focused on driving long-term value creation and enhancing its position in the evolving mobility landscape.