Hero RNT diesel-electric hybrid

There’s seemingly a lot to get excited about the RNT diesel-electric hybrid unveiled by Hero MotoCorp, Indian’s largest motorcycle company, at last week’s Auto Expo in New Delhi.

The company, which currently has two scooter and 17 motorcycles in its line-up – all basic commuter fare -- has now jumped a fair few notches up the technological ladder with the RNT, which has a 13.5hp 150cc diesel engine with the option of a 1.3hp front wheel hub motor to make it a two-wheel drive – about the right horsepower ration between front and rear according to gizmag.com.au, which has heavily critiqued the radical-thinking RNT.

The diesel and electric components can function separately or as one power-producing unit in two-wheel drive mode for slippery or off-road situations.

The 13.5hp diesel engine produces 35Nm of torque at just 1600rpm, an rpm figure that not even a big-bore cruiser such as the Triumph Rocket III Roadster (2750rpm) can get close to. And being a diesel it will be economical as well – and appeal to Indian commuters who pay the equivalent of 32 cents less for a litre of diesel than they do for petrol.

But it’s the practical, all-purpose touches that also set the RNT apart, including a generator that can output 1500W of 230V electrical power continuously, and the LED headlight which can be unclipped to offer a portable light source.

Anyone who has travelled through many parts of the world will know that scooters are more than just commuters – they are also workhorses and multi-purpose utility vehicles. The RNT certainly reflects that in many of its other design attributes, including wide, flat-loading surfaces, multi-use folding side racks, spacious footboards, and a large, comfortable seat.

Hero Motocorp hasn’t given a time frame for the RNT’s eventual release.