Hero's new Activa rival to offer features like LED taillight and coded key.
Three sources have told Autocar Professional that Hero Motocorp, the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in the world, has started production of the Dash scooter at its Gurgaon plant, ahead of a launch that will take place in the coming months.
Unveiled in January 2014, the Dash will be Hero's new offering in the 110 cc scooter segment, and will take on the Honda Activa, currently India's best selling scooter, and also India's best selling two wheeler (March 2014).
Unlike the Hero Maestro which borrows its engine from the Activa (Hero pays loyalty to Honda for using the engine), the Dash will be powered by an all-new single-cylinder 111 cc engine good for 8.5 bhp. For reference, the Activa's 109.2 cc motor develops 8 bhp.
The publication reports that Hero, which used to roll out about 1,400 units of the Maestro each day from the Gurgaon plant, is now focussing all synergies on the Dash and wants to have at least 30,000-35,000 units in stock before the launch. The Maestro will not be immediately discontinued, but will be phased out once the Dash picks up sales momentum.
Also read: Hero overtakes Honda in scooter exports
Apart from the new engine, the Dash is expected to come with features such as an external fuel lid, telescopic front suspension, USB mobile charger, under-seat storage light, LED taillight and key with an e-code.
Competitors: Suzuki Let's, Mahindra’s Gusto, Honda Activa, TVS Jupiter
Expected Price: INR 50,000-55,000 (ex-showroom)
Expected launch Date: In the coming months
[Source - Autocar Professional]
