Honda is reportedly preparing a new electric scooter for India after the Activa e and QC1 received a muted response. The upcoming model is expected to focus on better range, features, and affordability.
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India is said to be rethinking its electric two-wheeler strategy after its first EV offerings failed to create strong momentum in the market. According to industry reports, the company is now developing a brand-new electric scooter designed specifically for Indian buyers.
Moreover, this upcoming Honda electric scooter is expected to be built on a fresh platform with higher localisation. Therefore, it could be priced more competitively while offering better practicality than existing Honda EVs.
Why Honda Activa Electric Struggled in the Indian Market
Despite Honda’s dominance in petrol scooters, its electric journey has not been smooth. Models like the Honda Activa e and Honda QC1 failed to match the expectations of Indian EV customers.
Meanwhile, established players such as TVS and Bajaj gained strong traction with the iQube and Chetak. On the other hand, EV startups like Ola Electric and Ather Energy attracted buyers with longer range, smart features, and better overall value.
Compared to rivals, Honda’s electric scooters offered limited range and fewer features at similar price points. As a result, many buyers looked elsewhere.
Activa e Battery System and Practicality Issues
The Honda Activa e introduced a swappable battery system that relied heavily on Honda’s battery-swapping infrastructure. However, this network is currently limited to a few cities, reducing its real-world usability.
Additionally, customers were required to pay a separate subscription fee under Honda’s Battery-as-a-Service model. This added cost discouraged many potential buyers.
Another major drawback was the lack of under-seat storage. Since the battery sits under the seat, everyday practicality took a hit. In contrast, most rival electric scooters offer up to 30–35 litres of under-seat storage.
Honda QC1: Better Convenience but Still Behind Rivals
The Honda QC1 tried to address some concerns by offering an in-built battery and an onboard home charger. This made daily charging more convenient than the Activa e.
However, it still lagged behind competitors in terms of range, features, and performance. Therefore, sales remained low, and reports suggest that production of both the Activa e and QC1 was paused by mid-2025 due to weak demand.
New Honda Electric Scooter Platform and Expected Launch
All these challenges have pushed Honda to reassess its EV plans. According to recent reports, the company is now working on a new electric scooter based on the J1H platform.
Moreover, this upcoming model is expected to feature a new battery pack, improved range, and modern technology. Honda is also focusing on heavy localisation to keep costs under control.
The new Honda electric scooter is likely to launch towards the end of 2026. If executed well, it could finally help Honda compete strongly in India’s fast-growing EV scooter segment.
Current Honda Electric Scooter Prices and Range
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom) | Claimed Range |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Activa e | ₹1.18 lakh | Up to 102 km |
| Honda QC1 | ₹1.11 lakh | 80 km |
For comparison, rivals like the TVS iQube offer better range and features at similar prices. However, Honda appears determined to close this gap with its next EV.
Can Honda Repeat Activa’s ICE Success in the EV Space?
Honda enjoys unmatched trust in the Indian scooter market. Therefore, expectations are high from its next electric offering.
If Honda delivers better range, practical storage, competitive pricing, and reliable charging solutions, it could finally replicate the success of the petrol Activa in the electric segment.
For now, all eyes are on Honda’s next move as the brand prepares for a fresh start in India’s EV race.
FAQs
Q1. Why did the Honda Activa e fail in India?
The Activa e struggled due to limited range, lack of under-seat storage, subscription-based battery usage, and restricted charging infrastructure.
Q2. When will the new Honda electric scooter launch?
Reports suggest the new Honda electric scooter could launch in India by the end of 2026.
Q3. Will the upcoming Honda EV be more affordable?
Honda is reportedly focusing on higher localisation, which could help reduce costs and improve pricing.
