2017 EICMA: Hero Xpulse Concept Unveiled

Hero MotoCorp has unveiled the Hero Xpulse at the 2017 EICMA Show in Milan today. But hold your horses, it’s just a concept, for now! At first glance, it seems that the Xpulse concept is based on the Impulse platform. It features an off-road suspension, high-mounted mudguards, off-roading tyres, a larger bash plate, a big crash guard, and a centre stand. 

A closer glance reveals an all-digital instrument cluster, unlike the semi-digital unit seen on the Hero Impulse. Confusingly enough, the fuel tank looks like it came from the original Hero Karizma. The Xpulse concept also features a bigger tank than the Hero Impulse, indicating that it might have a good fuel range. In terms of accessories, the Xpulse on show offers auxiliary lamps, two hard panniers and a waterproof top bag with bungee cords. 

Hero hasn’t given us any official figures, but we can expect it to come with a single-cylinder engine with displacement in the region of 200-250cc. 

The entry level adventure tourer segment in India is currently populated by the lone Royal Enfield Himalayan. However, if and when the Xpulse makes its debut in our market, at a competitive price, we can expect it to give fierce competition to the Himalayan.

Exactly six years ago from today, when the Hero Impulse was first launched, it garnered a positive reaction from majority of critics. However, buyers weren’t sold on the look of the bike. This led to disappointing sales figures, leading Hero to discontinue the Hero Impulse from our markets. 

It remains to be seen how the public perception will be towards the new Hero off-roader this time around.