Hero Splendor Plus & HF Deluxe E85 Flex Fuel Explained: How It Works And What's New

Hero MotoCorp has become India's first two-wheeler manufacturer to introduce mass-market flex-fuel motorcycles. The brand's popular commuter models, the Splendor Plus and HF Deluxe, are now available with E85-capable flex-fuel engines.

Hero Splendor Plus & HF Deluxe E85 Flex Fuel Explained

E85 fuel contains up to 85 percent ethanol, helping reduce dependence on conventional petrol while lowering emissions and supporting India's ethanol-blending goals. These high-ethanol-compatible motorcycles differ from regular versions by supporting fuel blends ranging from E20 to E85. Hero has made several modifications to ensure efficiency, durability, and compatibility with higher ethanol content.

1. Engine Tuning

The 97cc engine has been recalibrated with revised fuel mapping and ignition timing to operate efficiently on varying ethanol blends. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) can automatically detect the ethanol content in the fuel tank and adjust fuel delivery and ignition accordingly.

The flex-fuel version now produces 8.56 PS at 8,000 rpm and 8.3 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, benefiting from ethanol's higher octane rating. In comparison, the standard versions produce 7.9 bhp and 8.05 Nm of torque. Power is transmitted through a 4-speed gearbox.

2. New Components

Since ethanol is more corrosive than conventional petrol, Hero has upgraded several fuel system components. The fuel lines, internal seals, and fuel tank coatings have been redesigned to withstand higher ethanol concentrations and improve long-term durability. These changes help protect critical components from corrosion and ensure reliable performance over extended usage.

3. Mechanical Changes

The motorcycles feature upgraded fuel pumps capable of handling ethanol-rich fuel blends more effectively. To further improve reliability, Hero has also added a secondary fuel filtration system. This additional filter helps remove impurities and protects the fuel injection system from premature wear, degradation, or failure.

4. New Additions And Themes

The bikes receive a new semi-digital instrument cluster that distinguishes them from their standard counterparts. The digital fuel gauge provides clearer and more accurate information regarding the remaining fuel level.

On the exterior, both motorcycles feature new graphics and an eco-themed black and lime-yellow colour scheme. These visual updates highlight their flex-fuel capability and environmentally friendly character.

5. Hero's Commuter-Friendly Features

Hero has equipped the motorcycles with its advanced i3S idle stop-start technology, which helps reduce fuel consumption and improve overall efficiency. Additional features include a side-stand engine cut-off function, tubeless tyres, and a USB charging port, enhancing practicality for daily commuters.

Pricing Details

The HF Deluxe remains one of the most affordable commuter motorcycles in the country. Its flex-fuel variant is priced from Rs 72,792 (ex-showroom). Meanwhile, the Splendor Plus Flex Fuel is priced at Rs 82,810 (ex-showroom).

Deliveries of both motorcycles are scheduled to begin in July 2026. The government is also working on developing the necessary infrastructure for E85-compatible vehicles, with initial rollouts expected in Delhi and select regions of Maharashtra.