Honda is generating significant buzz around its upcoming Activa EV, the company’s first electric scooter designed for the Indian market. Scheduled for a November 27, 2024, launch in Bengaluru, the Activa EV has revealed several exciting features in its teasers, many of which are comparable to the globally available Honda CUV e:. Notably, the teasers confirm the inclusion of swappable battery packs, which enhance the scooter’s practicality by offering an extended range and convenience for users.
A recent teaser showcased a battery being removed from a charging dock and placed under the seat, indicating that the Activa EV will feature a dual-battery setup. Utilizing Honda’s Mobile Power Pack e: units, this arrangement facilitates quick battery swaps. This dual-battery configuration, previously seen in some Hero electric scooters, enhances usability by providing a seamless charging alternative. Drawing inspiration from the SC e: Concept presented at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, the Activa EV seems closely aligned with the CUV e: and is expected to carry two 1.3 kWh batteries, resulting in a total capacity of 2.6 kWh.
For context, the CUV e: achieves a range of 70 km per charge, as announced at EICMA. However, the India-specific Activa EV is reported to deliver a range of 104 km. This discrepancy could be due to differences in testing cycles, with the Indian version potentially achieving an actual range closer to 75 km under real-world conditions. Comparatively, the Ather 450X offers a 100 km range with a 3.7 kWh battery, suggesting the Activa EV’s range claims are credible. Honda has also hinted at the ability to charge up to 75% in three hours and might even equip the India-bound model with a larger battery for enhanced performance.
One significant advantage of the Activa EV’s swappable batteries is the elimination of reliance on dedicated parking chargers. Users can remove the batteries and recharge them conveniently at home or the office. However, this innovation may compromise under-seat storage, potentially limiting space for helmets or other items. Despite this trade-off, many users may appreciate the convenience it offers.
Expected features include an LCD or TFT display, selectable ride modes, Bluetooth connectivity, and an LED headlamp. Powered by a 6 kW motor with a top speed of 80 kph, the Activa EV is set to compete with offerings like the Ola S1, Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube, and Ather Rizta, aiming to capture a notable share of India’s electric scooter market.