Hero MotoCorp begins operations at Colombia plant; first outside India.

Indian two-wheeler giant Hero MotoCorp recently began operations at a new facility here, the company's first plant outside India, which has been built at an investment of $70 million.

Hero MotoCorp, already the world's largest two-wheeler manufacturer, said the new facility would also act as an export hub for the region, while ten top models of Hero motorcycles and scooters would be made at this plant.

The unit, spread over 17 acres at Villa Rica in the state of Cauca, will have an initial production capacity of 80,000 units per annum. This will be expanded to 1,50,000 units per annum in the next phase.

The plant, which was inaugurated by Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos in presence of the government officials of this country and Hero officials, will provide employment to 2,200 people.

It will initially manufacture 10 products from the HMCL portfolio, including the new scooter 'Dash', which was also unveiled here as part of its global launch.


ET