Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has made a significant move in the electric mobility segment by launching its first electric scooter in India, the Honda Activa E, at a price of Rs 1.17 lakh (ex-showroom). This eagerly anticipated scooter marks Honda’s foray into India’s burgeoning EV market and was first unveiled in November 2024 alongside the QC1 electric scooter. These unveilings represent the company’s 12th and 13th electric scooters globally, contributing to Honda’s ambitious target of introducing 30 electric vehicles (EVs) worldwide in the coming years.
Honda’s Vision for Carbon Neutrality
The Activa E’s launch is not just a milestone for Honda’s EV journey but also a step forward in the company’s broader vision. Honda has committed to achieving carbon neutrality across its entire product range and corporate operations by 2050. As part of this strategy, Honda aims to electrify its motorcycles and scooters to cater to the evolving demands of eco-conscious consumers.
The Activa Legacy Goes Electric
The Honda Activa E carries forward the iconic nameplate of the Activa, one of India’s most popular internal combustion engine (ICE) scooters. While retaining the core structure and body of the ICE Activa, the electric version showcases a completely reimagined design. The minimalist styling of the Activa E gives it a modern and futuristic appearance while maintaining the practicality and reliability associated with the Activa brand.
The front apron of the Activa E features a sleek LED headlamp flanked by turn indicators. Additionally, an LED daytime running light (DRL) is integrated into the design, further enhancing its premium look. The scooter also sports a compact floorboard and an elongated seat to ensure rider comfort. At the rear, the Activa E prominently displays the “Activa E” emblem, seamlessly integrated into the tail lamp assembly.
Performance and Battery Technology
Under the seat, the Honda Activa E houses an innovative swappable battery system. This system consists of two 1.5 kWh batteries, which can be removed and charged conveniently. These batteries power a wheel-side electric motor with a continuous rated output of 4.2 kW (5.6 hp), which can be boosted to a peak power of 6.0 kW (8 hp). This ensures a balance between performance and efficiency.
The Activa E delivers an impressive range of 102 km on a single charge, making it a practical choice for daily commutes. Moreover, Honda has introduced three riding modes—Standard, Sport, and Econ—to cater to different riding preferences. These modes allow riders to optimize the scooter’s performance and range according to their needs.
Sustainability Meets Convenience
Honda’s decision to include a swappable battery system is in line with its commitment to sustainability and user convenience. The modular design of the battery system ensures reduced downtime for charging, as users can easily swap out a discharged battery for a fully charged one. This feature is expected to revolutionize urban commuting, particularly in densely populated cities where charging infrastructure is still developing.
Competitive Landscape and Consumer Appeal
The Honda Activa E enters a competitive electric scooter market in India, with players like Ola Electric, Ather Energy, and TVS already having a strong presence. However, the Activa E’s association with the trusted Activa brand name, coupled with its advanced features and Honda’s extensive dealer network, gives it a distinct edge.
Priced at Rs 1.17 lakh, the Activa E targets urban commuters seeking an eco-friendly, reliable, and stylish mode of transportation. Its combination of cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and Honda’s legacy of quality makes it a compelling choice in India’s evolving EV market.
Deepak Verma is a graduate from Delhi University with a First Division. With 8 years of teaching experience in Mathematics and Science, he has mentored secondary and senior secondary students. Currently, he is an author at SAMSA, where he applies his expertise to create engaging educational content.