Honda is gearing up for a fresh start in India’s electric two-wheeler arena. After the quiet fade-out of its first two EVs—the Activa e: and the QC1—the company is now developing a new, ground-up electric scooter specifically tailored for Indian riders. The mission is clear: learn from past missteps and deliver a product that can genuinely compete with established favourites like the TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, and Ather Rizta.
The earlier models, while innovative in some aspects, faced practical hurdles that limited their appeal. The Activa e: introduced a factory-backed battery-swapping network, a rarity in the market. However, with a sparse network of stations and no option for a simple home plug-in charge, convenience was a major issue for most buyers. Furthermore, dedicating the under-seat space to batteries left riders with virtually no storage—a significant downside in a segment where 30 litres of boot space is becoming the norm.
Honda’s QC1 model addressed the storage and charging issues, offering a 26-litre boot and home charging capability. Yet, it felt out of step with market expectations in other ways. Its performance and range specifications paled in comparison to rivals, leaving consumers wanting more.
The new scooter in development is expected to bridge these gaps. Insiders indicate Honda is focusing on a balanced package: a useful storage compartment, a competitive real-world range that meets modern standards, and a sensible feature set. Perhaps most crucially, Honda intends to price this offering aggressively. To achieve this, the company is pursuing deep localisation, sourcing components and manufacturing within India to control costs without compromising on quality.
For potential EV buyers, this signals a promising shift. Honda’s vast experience in building trusted, durable scooters, when combined with a product that finally aligns with core market demands, could introduce a compelling new choice. While an official launch date remains under wraps, this project signifies Honda’s serious intent to reclaim its footing and make a meaningful impact in India’s electric future.
