A Big Step into Electric Mobility
Honda has finally entered India’s electric two-wheeler market with the launch of the Activa e on November 27, 2024, at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. This electric version of the iconic Activa, a household name for over 20 years, brings a fresh and eco-friendly option for city commuters. Priced between ₹1.17 lakh and ₹1.52 lakh (ex-showroom), the Activa e is available in two variants—Standard and RoadSync Duo. Deliveries will start in February 2025, initially in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, with plans to expand to other cities later. Honda’s move shows its commitment to greener mobility, competing with popular models like the Ola S1, TVS iQube, and Bajaj Chetak.
Sleek Design with Familiar Activa Charm
The Activa e keeps the simple, clean look of its petrol-powered sibling but adds a modern twist. It features a stylish LED headlight with daytime running lights (DRLs), slim LED tail lights, and diamond-cut 12-inch alloy wheels for a sporty vibe. The design is practical yet attractive, with a long, comfortable seat and a minimalist style that suits all riders. Unlike some flashier scooters, the Activa e focuses on a timeless look that blends form and function, making it perfect for daily city rides. Its compact build and 119 kg weight make it easy to handle, even in tight traffic.
Smart Features for Easy Riding
The Activa e is packed with features to make riding convenient and fun. The RoadSync Duo variant comes with a 7-inch TFT display that connects to the Honda RoadSync Duo app via Bluetooth. This shows navigation, call alerts, music controls, battery status, and nearby e:Swap stations. The scooter also has H-Smart technology, including Smart Find to locate it in parking lots, Smart Unlock for keyless access, and Smart Start for easy ignition. Other features include a USB Type-C charging port and tubeless tires for added practicality. However, it lacks regenerative braking, which could have improved its range further.
Swappable Batteries and Solid Performance
What sets the Activa e apart is its dual 1.5 kWh swappable battery packs, offering a range of 102 km on a single charge. These Honda Mobile Power Pack e: batteries can be swapped at Honda’s e:Swap stations in just a minute, reducing range anxiety. The scooter is powered by a 6 kW swingarm-mounted motor, delivering 22 Nm of torque and a top speed of 80 kmph. It has three riding modes—Eco, Standard, and Sport—for different riding needs. While it takes 4-5 hours to charge at home, the swappable battery system makes it ideal for quick top-ups in cities.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Price (ex-showroom) | ₹1.17 lakh – ₹1.52 lakh |
| Battery | Dual 1.5 kWh swappable |
| Range | 102 km per charge |
| Motor Power | 6 kW (8 bhp), 22 Nm torque |
| Top Speed | 80 kmph |
| Charging Time | 4-5 hours (home charger) |
| Weight | 119 kg |
| Brakes | Front disc, rear drum |
| Wheels | 12-inch alloy, tubeless tires |
Affordable Battery Subscription Plan
To make ownership easier, Honda offers a “Lite” battery subscription plan at ₹678 per month (excluding GST) for 20 kWh of energy, covering about 600 km or 20 km daily. After this, users pay ₹70 per battery swap. This plan, along with the existing Basic and Advance options, makes the Activa e budget-friendly for city commuters. However, the battery-swapping network is currently limited to a few cities, which might be a challenge for some users. Honda is working to expand its e:Swap stations to support more riders.
Why the Activa e Stands Out
The Honda Activa e combines reliability, smart technology, and eco-friendly performance, making it a strong choice for urban riders. Its swappable batteries and trusted brand name give it an edge in a crowded market. While it may not have the flashiest design or the longest range compared to rivals, its smooth ride, good build quality, and practical features make it a dependable option for daily use. With Honda planning to launch more electric scooters by 2027, the Activa e is just the start of an exciting journey toward sustainable mobility in India.