Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) recently shared a teaser about its much-anticipated electric scooter, which revealed a swingarm-mounted motor.
Unlike premium electric scooters commonly using mid-drive permanent magnetic synchronous (PMS) motors, this design choice is aligned with popular models like the Bajaj Chetak and Vida V1, which also use swingarm-mounted motors.
This teaser has sparked speculation that the new scooter could be Honda’s “Activa Electric,” aimed at the family market segment.
Honda Simplified Design and Targeted Market
Honda’s decision to use a swingarm-mounted motor brings several practical advantages. This configuration simplifies manufacturing and minimizes power transfer losses, which can be more prominent with PMS motor setups that use belt or chain drives.
By choosing a less complex motor design, Honda can keep production costs lower, an important factor in competing within the price-sensitive e-scooter market. This move also aligns with Honda’s goal to make its electric offerings accessible to a broader audience.
Ease of Maintenance and Cost Efficiency
Swingarm-mounted motors present unique benefits, especially in terms of maintenance. Unlike hub motors that are attached directly to the rear wheel, the swingarm setup makes it easier to handle repairs such as fixing a puncture.
This makes the motor setup more practical and cheaper to maintain, likely contributing to a competitive price point that could attract cost-conscious consumers in India.
Honda appears to be strategically positioning the Activa Electric to compete within the mass-market electric two-wheeler segment, which is currently led by brands like Ola Electric, Bajaj, and TVS.
Using a swingarm-mounted motor, Honda can potentially keep the price lower than models equipped with more complex motor configurations. This strategy could help the brand capture a significant share of the growing electric scooter market in India.
Enhanced Features and Technology
The teaser also hints at the scooter’s LED headlamp and comfortable seating, though detailed specifications are yet to be revealed. Given the current market trends, Activa Electric is expected to come equipped with essential features such as a digital console, Bluetooth connectivity, and possibly navigation.
Connected technology, a popular feature in modern e-scooters, may be available as an optional package, allowing Honda to offer a customizable product at various price points.
Expected Performance and Range and Price
While specific details are not yet available, Honda has hinted that the new electric scooter’s performance will be comparable to its 110cc ICE counterpart, likely making it an electric version of the Activa 110. It is expected to deliver a range of around 100-150 km on a single charge, aligning with segment standards for practicality and daily use.
Regarding pricing, it is anticipated to be available in the market with a starting price of approximately Rs 1 lakh (ex-showroom).
Honda E-Scooter Launch and Future Plans
Honda’s new electric scooter platform is part of a broader push to electrify its product lineup. It includes plans to equip its extensive network of over 6,000 touchpoints across India with charging stations.
More details about Honda’s electric product roadmap and Activa Electric’s launch specifics are expected at the official unveiling on November 27, 2024. Stay tuned for more updates as Honda accelerates its entry into the Indian electric scooter market.
