Hero MotoCorp inaugurates new R&D Centre in Jaipur

The world's largest producer of two-wheelers, Hero MotoCorp has formally inaugurated its world-class ‘Global Centre of Innovation and Technology’ (CIT) in Jaipur, Rajasthan. While it seems that the Indian bike manufacturer was not very active in terms of product launches the previous year for the domestic market, they were however heavily involved in setting up shop in various regions around the globe. And this new R&D centre is further proof that Hero is highly focused on becoming a major global player in the two-wheeler industry, hence the name 'Global' Centre of Innovations and Technology. But to keep it simple the massive complex is simply called CIT.

The new CIT complex was built with an investment of Rs. 850 crores, and Hero has told us that this new facility is a massive statement to reinforce their commitment to innovate sustainable mobility solutions, for the world. The CIT is indeed a world-class state-of-the-art facility, and it houses the best global technologies in product design & development, testing and validation. Home to over 500 automotive experts with global and regional expertise, the operations at CIT will be headed by Dr. Markus Braunsperger, Chief Technology Officer.

The CIT also boasts of world-class test-tracks within the facility. With a total distance of 16 kilometres, the multiple test tracks have 45 different surfaces to simulate real world road conditions, both Indian and global.

Hero has also stated that the CIT has advanced green technologies imbibed into its design, ensuring eco-friendly operations. The facility will also generate direct and indirect employment in the region and assist in it’s socio-economic development.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Markus Braunsperger, CTO, Hero MotoCorp said, “The CIT is the new home of our R&D team and the commencement of operations here is a major milestone in our endeavour to ramp-up the product development competency to global standards at Hero. Within this facility we are establishing new work processes and enhancing our technical skills to global benchmarks. We will compete globally, attracting the best talent from India and across the world. The CIT will become a unique workplace for engineering talent in India, bringing our R&D Vision to life – energizing smart mobility technology.”

With this new facility what we really do hope for though is to see some exciting new products in the near future. Hero MotoCorp seems to be doing rather well since its split from Japanese partners Honda, but we have yet to see them move away from the mass market products they are famous for and produce something really special, especially for biking enthusiasts in India. They have showcased some very interesting concepts in the past, and we can't wait to see when some of those make it to production. Hopefully, now we won't have to wait too much longer.