The highly anticipated Honda Activa EV is set to enter the production phase, with test production expected to commence in the coming weeks. The global debut of Honda’s first electric scooter is slated for December 2024, and full-scale production is expected to follow soon after. This marks a significant step for Honda as the brand gears up to meet the rising demand for electric two-wheelers in India.
Production and Expansion Plans
Honda has been ramping up its manufacturing capabilities in India, adding two new production lines at its Gujarat and Karnataka facilities. These moves align with Honda’s broader strategy to expand both its internal combustion engine (IC) two-wheeler production and electric vehicle (EV) offerings. Specifically, the Honda Activa Electric will be produced at the Karnataka plant, where a dedicated production line for EVs has been set up.
The test production of the Honda Activa EV will begin soon, with the final global unveiling scheduled for December 2024. Following this, customer reservations and deliveries are expected to start in February 2025.
What We Know So Far: Key Features and Specifications
While the technical specifications of the Honda Activa EV remain under wraps, industry speculation suggests that the EV will feature a driving range of over 100 km on a single charge. Given Honda’s reputation for reliability, we can expect a well-rounded scooter with modern tech, a strong focus on safety, and ease of use.
Key aspects to watch for:
- Battery Options: Honda is reportedly developing two variants, one with a fixed battery and another with a swappable battery system.
- Local Sourcing: Electric motors and batteries are expected to be sourced locally, aligning with Honda’s commitment to localize production in India.
- Design Language: The Honda Activa EV will retain the familiar styling of the popular Activa series, a well-known and trusted name in the Indian scooter market.
Market Impact and Competition
The electric scooter segment in India is currently dominated by Ola Electric, Hero MotoCorp, TVS, and Bajaj, among others. However, Honda’s entry into the electric space is highly anticipated, given the success of its ICE scooters like the Honda Activa. With the EV version, Honda aims to leverage its established brand trust and widespread service network.
Honda is also eyeing double-digit growth in the Indian two-wheeler market, with a targeted growth rate of over 15% in FY25. The Activa EV is expected to play a key role in this expansion strategy, as Honda plans to introduce up to 9 additional electric two-wheelers in the coming years.
What’s Next for Honda EVs?
Honda has plans to follow up the Activa EV launch with a slew of other electric offerings, with designs and concepts like the Honda SC e: Concept already gaining attention. Honda is positioning itself to be a significant player in the Indian EV market, despite its relatively late entry compared to some of its competitors.
Expected Pricing and Launch Timeline
| Model | Launch Date | Expected Price (INR) | Expected Range (KM) | Key Competitors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Activa EV | December 2024 (Debut) | ₹1.10 – ₹1.25 Lakh | 100+ | Ola S1, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, Ather 450X |
- Official Debut: December 2024
- Customer Deliveries: February 2025
- Price Range: Estimated between ₹1.10 lakh to ₹1.25 lakh (ex-showroom)
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