Honda to Launch Its Much-Awaited Electric Scooter in India on November 27, 2024 – New teaser confirms
The electric two-wheeler segment is growing significantly this year and gaining every manufacturer’s attention. That being said, Honda Motors is also eyeing this segment. It is gearing up to launch its first electric scooter for the Indian market by March 2025. It has also revealed the launch timeline of the upcoming electric two-wheeler.
Honda’s first electric launch for the Indian market will likely be the Activa Electric. The reason is that the ICE Activa has been one of the best sellers in India for years, so it’s only logical for the brand to offer the electric iteration of the iconic scooter to capitalize on its popularity.
Honda Activa EV Plan of Action
Despite being relatively late in the electric two-wheeler race, Honda has set ambitious goals. The brand has revealed its plans for the electric two-wheeler segment, including the plan to enter domestic and international markets.
Honda is developing a rather high-end product with advanced features for the global market. A phased-out market expansion approach will be utilized.
The model for India will be launched in the year 2024, whereas the global model will be launched in 2025. It will first be launched in Indonesia, then followed by Japan and Europe.
Honda Activa EV – Details
The company has developed an EV platform architecture that will make use of the existing ICE product line. This is being done to improve turnaround time and enhance cost efficiency.
Honda is going to focus on the use of existing ICE assets and expertise to create practical products that are affordable as well.
As of now, detailed specifications are not available for the two-wheeler but the company did mention that its performance would be equal to its 110cc ICE sibling. It is expected to be launched as an electric version of the Activa 110.
In this case, the overall specs and look can be expected to be on par with the ice version and segment standards. It is likely to offer approximately a range of 100-150 km on a single charge.
The EV is likely to feature a design similar to its ICE version in regards to its stylishness. Thus, it can be anticipated to feature an LED headlamp, a wide front apron, and a flat seat.
In terms of features, the e-scooter could come equipped with a fully digital instrument cluster, and in-vehicle infotainment, and higher trims could get a touchscreen display, completely connected with high tech and navigation.
It is evident that the brand is looking forward to launching a mass-market electric two-wheeler and not entering the premium range at the moment.
Honda’s EV Battery
The model is also anticipated to have battery-swapping technology.
Honda is also developing multiple battery technologies for its upcoming range to balance out cost aspects and varying user requirements.
Most of the production will be done in-house. At present, existing Honda models use nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) cell chemistry.
For its upcoming electric models, Honda is reportedly working on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells. These planned LFP cells would be used for the Electric Activa. This will also help in the faster adoption of electric two-wheelers.
Honda Activa EV Price in India
The Honda Activa Electric is likely to compete with the Bajaj Chetak Electric, TVS iQube, Ather 450X, and Ola Electric S1. Regarding pricing, it is anticipated to be available in the market with a starting price of approximately Rs 1 lakh (ex-showroom).
The brand is planning on expanding its electric portfolio and thus has also shown a range of electric scooter and bike concepts at the EICMA show, with the Honda Activa Electric slated to be revealed soon.
Honda CUV e: electric scooter
Honda CUV e: electric scooter is the second EV to join the brand’s EV lineup. CUV stands for Clean Urban Vehicles which signifies the importance of use of electric vehicles as well as emission-free travel.
The CUV e: will be powered by two removable battery packs and Honda claims it would have a range of more than 70 km on a single charge. It is offered with two display options either a 5-inch one or a 7-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity.
Additionally, the CUV e: gets 3 riding modes: Standard, Sport and Eco, along with a reverse feature.
Honda EV Fun concept
The EV FUN concept is being developed to offer performance similar to a mid-sized ICE motorcycle. It is scheduled for commercialization in 2025.
Even though the EV Fun concept is in the concept stage of development, the presence of finalized brakes and suspension hints that it is in a rather advanced stage.
The design of the EV Fun concept is that of a sporty naked bike and the single-sided swingarm is a nice touch. The headlight of the EV Fun concept would become a key selling point for Indian audiences.
The company also claims that would have a cruising range of over 100km. Its battery would be compatible with a CCS2 quick charger i.e. the same charger that is used for electric cars, which would provide more options for charging.
Honda EV Urban concept
The EV Urban concept, unlike the EV Fun concept, still is in the start of it’s concept stage and no details about the powertrain or other specs are available.
The overall silhouette is similar to something like a BMW CE 04, which is a premium electric scooter, so this concept may cater to the premium range.
Final Thoughts
Honda is aiming to establish a strong presence in the electric two-wheeler space as well with all these efforts. While specifications of the EV are not available, Honda has stated that the next-gen battery packs will make all these two wheelers affordable and shall also enhance the electric vehicle’s marketability.
