Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has taken a significant step into the electric vehicle (EV) market by launching two new electric scooters—the Activa e and the QC1. This marks the brand’s official entry into the EV two-wheeler segment in India.
Honda Activa e: Specifications and Features
The Activa e is an electric version of Honda’s iconic Activa scooter, powered by an in-house developed permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. This motor delivers a peak power of 6 kW and a torque of 22 Nm. The scooter can accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in just 7.3 seconds and achieves a top speed of 80 km/h.
The Activa e features three riding modes—Econ, Standard, and Sport—catering to different riding preferences and conditions. One of the most notable highlights is the inclusion of two swappable Honda Mobile Power Pack e batteries, each with a capacity of 1.5 kWh. These batteries provide a range of up to 102 km on a full charge and can be exchanged at Honda’s dedicated swapping stations.
Honda offers the Activa e in two variants: the Activa e and the Activa e: Honda RoadSync Duo. The latter variant comes equipped with a 7.0-inch TFT screen that supports real-time connectivity via the Honda RoadSync Duo app. This infotainment system includes navigation and automatic brightness adjustment with day and night modes. The TFT screen can be controlled using toggle switches on the handlebar.
Additional features of the Activa e include dual-tone seats, 12-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, a flat footboard, a sturdy grab rail, and all-LED lighting with DRLs. The scooter is available in five color options: Pearl Shallow Blue, Pearl Misty White, Pearl Serenity Blue, Matt Foggy Silver Metallic, and Pearl Igneous Black. It also comes with Honda’s H-Smart key, which includes functions such as Smart Find, Smart Safe, Smart Unlock, and Smart Start.
Honda QC1: Specifications and Features
The Honda QC1, the second model launched alongside the Activa e, features a fixed 1.5 kWh battery pack that offers a range of 80 km. The battery can be charged from 0 to 80% in 4 hours and 30 minutes, while a full charge takes 6 hours and 50 minutes.
The QC1 is powered by an in-wheel electric motor with a peak power rating of 1.8 kW and a maximum torque of 77 Nm, allowing for a top speed of 50 km/h. It offers two riding modes, Standard and Econ, which adjust power and efficiency based on the rider’s preference.
The scooter also includes a 5.0-inch all-info LCD display, a USB Type-C outlet, and 26 liters of under-seat storage. Unlike the Activa e, it lacks the advanced TFT screen. Both the Activa e and QC1 are manufactured at Honda’s Narsapura plant near Bengaluru, Karnataka. They come with a 3-year or 50,000 km warranty, three free services for the first year, and free roadside assistance for the first year.
Swappable Battery Technology
Honda’s swappable battery technology for the Activa e is a significant advancement. These batteries can be exchanged at designated Honda Power Pack Exchanger e: swapping stations, which are already operational in Bengaluru and Delhi, with plans to expand to Mumbai soon. This technology aims to address range anxiety by providing a convenient and quick way to recharge.
Pic Credit: Hindustan Times
Availability
The Activa e will initially be available at pre-existing Honda dealers in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with deliveries starting in February 2025. The QC1 will be available in select cities from February 2025 onwards.
Honda’s foray into the EV market with the Activa e and QC1 aligns with the company’s global ‘Triple Action to ZERO’ initiative, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. This initiative focuses on three key areas: carbon neutrality, clean energy, and resource circulation.