In 2014, Hero MotoCorp showcased the revolutionary RNT motorcycle at the Delhi Auto Expo. However, since then, we have heard nothing about the RNT from Hero MotoCorp
The year was 2014 and the Delhi Auto Expo was full of automobile journalists, industry members and spectators who were there to look at concept vehicles and future launches. All the manufacturers present at the show displayed their products and promised to develop new ideas in the Indian auto industry.
However, there was one brand whose plans were so over-the-top ambitious, we simply could not believe their words and we were right to do so. The brand was Hero MotoCorp, which showcased models such as HX250R, Hastur and RNT; none of them has become reality and in fact, we hear nothing about Hero MotoCorp about these products.
Moving on to the models, the HX250R and Hastur gained our attention, but it was the futuristic RNT that impressed us the most. A diesel hybrid 150cc motorcycle from the house of Hero MotoCorp dedicated to the farmers of India. The prototype was promising, but eight years later, nobody remembers the RNT; not even people at Hero MotoCorp.
The powertrain of the RNT
A 150cc, liquid-cooled, turbocharged, diesel engine coupled with an electric motor powered the prototype version of the RNT. The motorcycle never reached the production phase but as per Hero MotoCorp, the prototype version made a menial horsepower of 13hp only but a staggering torque figure of 35Nm and that too at 1,600rpm.
Features of the RNT
The RNT was a promising project because it had an optional electric hub attached to the front wheel that could be controlled by a secondary throttle. Not to forget, since it was aimed at serving the farmers of the country, the motorcycle’s headlight was detachable for the farmer to use at night in their fields.
Disc brakes at the front and rear
The RNT prototype featured disc brakes at the front and at the rear. Moving on to the suspension duties of the motorcycle, the RNT prototype was armed with a telescopic suspension setup at the front, whereas, at the rear, the RNT was furnished with a monoshock suspension unit.
Years later, the motorcycle is far from a reality and Hero MotoCorp never came up with another alternative model for the RNT. The company also failed to deliver the HX250R and the Hastur and, going by their present activities, our expectations from Hero MotoCorp are next to nil.
