Hero MotoCorp’s Electric-Mobility arm, Vida, has teased a new Electric Motorcycle Concept called the Vida Ubex, which is expected to make its global debut at the EICMA 2025 show.
A Few Key Points:
- The teaser was brief and then removed from social media, suggesting something significant is coming.
- Unlike Vida’s previous Electric Two-Wheeler efforts (which were more scooter/dirt-bike oriented), the Ubex appears to be a Street/Roadster-Type Electric Motorcycle, a first in this category from Hero/Vida.
- Design cues in the teaser show production-type elements: split-seat or single-piece long seat, alloy wheels, dual-disc brakes, mid-mounted motor position, chain or belt drive.
- The reveal is planned for EICMA 2025, with a possible launch in India after or around 2026.
Design & Technical Speculation
From the teaser and industry commentary, we can infer several design and technical directions:
- The silhouette reveals an aggressive, forward-leaning stance reminiscent of sport-naked motorcycles. The headlamp appears angular; the fuel-tank area (or what would have been for ICE) is replaced by a battery/motor unit.
- Suspension Looks Premium: inverted front forks (USD type) and a rear mono-shock. Alloy wheels with large petal disc brakes, front and rear.
- Drive System: Reports suggest a mid-mounted electric motor driving the rear wheel via chain (and possibly belt) drive. This is notable because many EV two-wheelers use hub motors, but this suggests a more conventional “motorcycle feel”.
- Charging & Battery: While Hero/Vida hasn’t released specs, rumors suggest the use of higher-capacity battery packs, potentially support for the LECCS (Light Electric Combined Charging System) standard, and a range comparable to 150-200 cc ICE bikes in India (perhaps ~200 km on a charge).
- Positioning: This is not just a commuter scooter; it appears targeted at riders wanting sporty style plus electric benefits. This is a shift by Hero/Vida into more aspirational EV territory.
Strategic Significance
- For Hero MotoCorp, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, the Ubex concept signals a serious push into the electric motorcycle segment, beyond scooters. Given the growing interest in EVs, this could be a game-changer.
- The umbrella brand Vida is already handling EV scooters (such as the Vida VX2) in the Indian market; the Ubex could broaden the lineup to include higher-end electric motorcycles.
- By showcasing at EICMA (a major global motorcycle show held in Milan), Hero/Vida also signals international ambitions, not just domestic. This boosts brand perception globally.
- The move into this segment puts Hero directly into competition with other electric motorcycle start-ups and legacy firms entering EV bikes, which adds competitive pressure but also opportunity for differentiation.
What To Watch Out For
Since this is a concept/teaser, there are many details still to be clarified. Key areas to keep an eye on:
- Battery Size and Range: Will the Ubex offer truly competitive range (e.g., 150-200 km) and real-world performance?
- Motor output & Performance: If it’s targeting 150-200 cc equivalent ICE bike users, what will be the power/torque figures?
- Pricing & Positioning in India: Will it be affordable for Indian riders, and how will Hero manage costs (battery being a major cost element)?
- Charging Infrastructure and Support: Will it support fast charging standards, and will Hero/Vida build out supporting infrastructure and service networks?
- Production Readiness & Launch Timeline: Though the teaser suggests “production-ready”, actual specs and timeline for full production may vary. The expectation of a 2026 India launch is speculative.
- International Market Rollout: Will Hero/Vida launch globally or is the first focus India? Will it adapt specs (e.g., motor size, battery) for foreign markets?
Conclusion
The Hero Vida V1 Pro Review Ubex concept marks an exciting juncture for both Hero MotoCorp and the broader Indian two-wheeler EV market. With its sporty styling, meaningful EV architecture (mid-motor, chain drive, premium suspension), and global unveiling at EICMA 2025, it sets the stage for electric motorcycles to move beyond scooters in India.
If Hero can deliver a production version of the Ubex with solid range, performance, and service/support at a competitive price, it could change the dynamics of the EV bike segment in India and perhaps internationally.
However, as with all concept teasers, it warrants cautious optimism — the final product may differ in details or timeline.
I’ll keep an eye out for the official reveal at EICMA and can bring you full specs and launch info when it occurs.