Hero MotoCorp ION


The leading Indian two-wheeler manufacturer- Hero MotoCorp showcased a unique electric two-wheeler at the 2014 Auto Expo christened as iON. It is a futuristic bike that comes with a bunch of innovative features. Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the bike also employs hubless wheels at both ends that are one of its kind in the country till now. The country’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer seems to be focussing on a “Greener future” with its unveiling. The price and expected launch date of Hero MotoCorp iON has not been announced yet.

Hero MotoCorp iON is one of the most advanced two-wheelers, the world has seen so far. It promises zero emission without compromising on looks and power. With its launch, the manufacturer is planning to reduce environmental degradation and help people to fight petrol price hike.


Hero MotoCorp iON runs on hydrogen fuel cell that is fitted in its centre structure. It is coupled with advanced Lithium Air (Li-Air) batteries with hydrogen fuel cell extender and supercapacitors that provide energy for braking and acceleration. The Lithium Air technology is quite efficient as it provides an extremely high energy density to the vehicle. The reason being, air is used directly from the atmosphere instead of storing it in an oxidiser internally.

Hero MotoCorp iON comes with many intelligent features such as hubless wheels at both the ends. These wheels have rotor component of hubless electric traction motors that incorporates Magnetic levitation technology to create zero friction. The unique system can work as brakes when required. The vehicles is controlled via Vehicle Control Module (VCM) and the acceleration is handled by finger-touch feature present at handlebar grip. The steering is done through a rotating front and rear wheel and suspension systems around the pivots that are mounted on the power module.


Multi axis gyros and accelerometers are employed to maintain the stability of the vehicle. Hero MotoCorp iON keeps a track of the surrounding traffic through Vehicle Situational Awareness (VSA) and make alterations to the Power, Brake and Steering (PBS) systems according to the requirements. The bike uses an advanced suspension system called as m-link that utilizes magnetorheological damping and adapts itself to the real time road conditions via on-board sensors. These sensors continuously vary the power of electromagnet that controls the damping characteristics of the suspension system.

The bike has a futuristic body design that purely resembles a future machine from every angle. The forward flowing and leaned body design makes its visuals appealing. Hero MotoCorp iON comes with a highly futuristic and advanced instrument panel. However, the full vehicle information is transmitted to the rider’s helmet. VSA system overrides any lower priority communications when traffic density becomes significant.