The electric two-wheeler scene in India just got more exciting with Honda, a renowned Japanese manufacturer, launching two new electric scooters: the Activa E and QC1. This marks Honda’s entry into the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market. Let’s dive into the details.
Activa E: Premium Electric Scooter with Swappable Batteries
The Activa E is Honda’s premium electric scooter, featuring swappable batteries. Its design closely resembles the Honda Cuve showcased earlier, tailored slightly for the Indian market. Key design highlights include:
- A sleek LED headlamp with DRL.
- Rounded body panels with 12-inch wheels at both ends.
- A telescopic fork and optional front disc brake.
The rider’s cockpit boasts a 7-inch TFT display on the higher variant, offering advanced connected features. The simpler version comes with a 5-inch TFT display. Keyless operation and a charging port add to its convenience.
However, the main highlight is the swappable battery system. The Activa E houses two 1.5 kWh battery packs under the seat, offering a combined range of approximately 100 km in eco mode. The swappable nature makes charging simple—users visit Honda’s dedicated charging stations to exchange batteries. Currently, stations are limited to Bengaluru, with expansion planned for Delhi and Mumbai.
One downside is the lack of boot storage due to battery placement. Additionally, users must rely entirely on the Honda network for charging. The Activa E delivers a peak motor output of 6 kW, a top speed of 80 km/h, and performance comparable to Honda’s 110cc or 125cc scooters.
QC1: A Simpler Alternative with Fixed Battery
The QC1 is a more straightforward electric scooter aimed at practicality. Its design is similar to the Activa E but with key differences:
- A simpler negative LCD display.
- Conventional drum brakes and twin rear shock absorbers.
- A hub-mounted motor delivering a top speed of 50 km/h.
The QC1’s fixed battery pack supports home charging, with a full charge taking around 4.5 hours to reach 80%. This scooter offers ample storage with a 26-liter boot, unlike the Activa E.
While the QC1 lacks performance, its practicality and wide availability make it a solid option for everyday use.
Pricing and Availability
Honda will announce prices for both scooters in January, with bookings and deliveries beginning in February. The Activa E will initially be available in select cities, while the QC1 will roll out nationwide. Both scooters cater to different needs, balancing performance, storage, and convenience.
Honda’s entry into the Indian EV market brings fresh competition and choice for consumers. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting launch!