With most automakers focusing resources on the upcoming BS-VI emissions norms and a general economic slowdown, Hero MotoCorp shall miss the 2020 Auto Expo.
The Auto Expo is the largest automotive event in the country and the next edition is just months away, scheduled in February 2020. This biennial auto event has been very eventful over the years with most Indian automakers in participation, showcasing their best products, technologies and concepts. However, the recent economic slowdown in the country has seen many manufacturers shy away from the 2020 Auto Expo. Now, Hero MotorCorp, world’s largest two-wheeler maker, have announced that they too would not be participating at the 2020 Auto Expo.
A statement from Hero MotoCorp read, “The domestic two-wheeler industry has been passing through a time of volatility, with market demand still continuing to be sluggish. Notwithstanding these challenges, Hero MotoCorp – and indeed the entire industry – is gearing up for the migration to the new emission norms ahead of the mandatory deadline of April 1, 2020. At a time such as this, it is prudent for us to prioritise our resources towards meeting business objectives for the benefit of our customers and other stakeholders.
In the midst of these significant transitions, the Auto Expo – The Motor Show – is going to be held in Greater Noida in early February next year. As the market leader and one of the most vocal torchbearers of the industry, Hero MotoCorp has always been a flagship participant at the Auto Expo in the previous years. However, participation in the Expo would require months of preparation and allocation of massive resources – both in terms of financial spends and manpower. In keeping with the prioritised objectives, the Company has decided after much deliberation, to skip the upcoming Auto Expo.”
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Hero MotoCorp usually has one of the biggest pavilions at the Auto Expo and their absence is a huge miss. Their absence also speaks about the health of the auto industry currently. It’s not just Hero MotorCorp but several other major manufacturers are also missing the Auto Expo and that includes Bajaj Auto, TVS Motor Company, Yamaha and Royal Enfield as well. It is also speculated that Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) will also give the Auto Expo a miss to focus on the BS6 emission norms.
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The upcoming BS-VI norms, piling BS4 inventory and the economic slowdown have all put immense pressure on the automakers. The number of footfall has also declined over the years and manufacturers are also thus questioning its financial viability. It takes months of preparation and huge financial resources to participate in Auto Shows. Manufacturers thus find it more viable to organise a separate event outside of the Expo and launch the products there. That said, once the automotive industry finds its traction again and there is some positive business, automakers will return to the New Delhi Auto Expo in the future.
