Detailed Narrative
Record Financial Performance in Q2 FY26
Hero MotoCorp achieved its highest ever quarterly revenue of ₹12,126 crores in Q2 FY26, representing a 16% year-on-year growth. This strong top-line performance translated into record profitability, with EBITDA reaching ₹1,823 crores (up 20% YoY) and PAT at ₹1,393 crores (up 16% YoY). The ICE business demonstrated significant margin expansion, with its EBITDA margin improving by 121 basis points year-on-year to 17.7%, contributing to an overall EBITDA margin of 15% for the quarter.
Robust Festive Season and Market Share Gains
The festive season proved highly successful for Hero MotoCorp, with nearly 1 million retails recorded on VAHAN by October 25. The company's VAHAN market share expanded by 3.7% year-on-year to 31.6% in October. ICE VAHAN registrations grew 16.2% from August 23 to November 13, outperforming the industry's 14.7% growth. Market share gains were broad-based, including a 3% increase in the Entry segment in Q2 and 5% in H1, driven by new product launches and emotional campaigns.
Strategic Growth in EV and Global Businesses
The EV business achieved its highest ever quarterly market share of 11.7%, an increase of 6.8% year-on-year, primarily due to the success of Vida VX2. Hero MotoCorp now holds over 20% market share in 48 towns and is a top 2 player in 56 towns for EVs. Concurrently, the global business demonstrated robust growth, with dispatches increasing by 77%, three times the industry growth, and expanding its presence to 52 countries, including new entries into Europe and the U.K.
Product Portfolio Expansion and Premiumization Drive
Hero MotoCorp introduced 12 new models and variants during the festive period, contributing significantly to its market performance. Key launches like the Glamour X and Xtreme 125R in the 125cc segment, and Destini 125/Xoom 125 in scooters, have driven sequential market share gains. The premium segment network has expanded to 100 stores, covering 50% of the upper premium market, and Xpulse retail sales grew by 31% during the festival, indicating successful premiumization efforts.
Outlook and Margin Management Strategy
Management projects the 2-wheeler industry to grow 8-10% in H2 FY26, with Hero MotoCorp expected to outperform the overall market and continue gaining market share. The company maintains its EBITDA margin guidance for the ICE business within the 14-16% range. While a 1-2% commodity inflation is anticipated in Q3 FY26, Hero plans to mitigate this through its LEAP program, cost efficiencies, and mix improvement, ensuring sustained profitability.
Leadership Transition and Sustainability Focus
A significant leadership development was announced with the appointment of Mr. Harshavardhan Chitale as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2026. Mr. Chitale's extensive global and diversified expertise is expected to guide Hero MotoCorp's future trajectory. The company also improved its Dow Jones Sustainability Index score to 75 in FY25 from 69 in FY24, reflecting its leadership in sustainable business growth and commitment to ESG initiatives.