Honda's Electric Revolution: 10 New EVs to Launch in India in 5 Years, Starting with Electric Activa in 2024

Honda, the second-largest two-wheeler manufacturer and the largest scooter manufacturer in India is set to launch ten new electric vehicles (EVs) in the next five years. The company's foray into the EV segment in India comes when the market is seeing significant growth, with established players and startups vying for a share of the pie.

According to reports, Honda's first EV launch in India will be an electric Activa with a fixed battery, followed by a moped with swappable battery technology. These two launches are expected to pave the way for the other eight EVs that Honda has in its roadmap, including maxi scooters, motorcycles, and even mini-bikes. The company reportedly develops different EVs to cater to various customer bases, with varied speeds, ranges, body types, styles, features, and prices.

Honda's approach to the EV segment in India is holistic, aiming to establish a portfolio that caters to most customer bases. The company's roadmap for EVs in India, revealed last year, shows multiple scooters with varied designs and bodies, providing customers with options. Honda's focus on the Activa brand is also apparent, as it aims to push volumes through this well-established brand.

Battery-swapping technology is likely to be key to Honda's success in the EV segment in India. The company has established a new vertical named Honda Power Pack Energy India in Bengaluru, with plans to partner with HPCL and Bengaluru Metro to establish swapping stations. These swapping stations will provide 1.35 kWh battery packs for swaps for electric two and three-wheeled vehicles. Major cities are expected to see a chain of swapping stations popping up soon, with more elaborate plans to be revealed soon.

Honda's plans for the EV segment in India also include upgrading its Manesar factory, which will be converted into a global hub for producing motorcycles and scooters. The upgrade will allow Honda to build and export world-class products from the Indian facility, which currently exports motorcycles to 40 countries.

Apart from EVs, Honda is also exploring the possibilities of flex-fuel technologies in India, which are already in use in its Brazilian counterparts. Flex-fuel motorcycles run on petrol and ethanol, allowing users to switch back and forth between fuels as per their preference. Ethanol is an economical and efficient fuel, making it an attractive option for users.

Honda's entry into the EV segment in India is expected to intensify competition in the market, which is already seeing significant growth. Established players like TVS and Bajaj have already entered the market, and startups like Ola and Ather are also vying for a share of the pie. With its well-established brand and holistic approach to the EV segment, Honda is poised to make a mark in the Indian market.