Honda Unveils New Electric Scooters at 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo
Honda has kicked off 2025 with an electrifying start by introducing its latest range of electric scooters at the Bharat Mobility Expo. While these scooters bring innovative features, Honda’s decision to exclude built-in charging options has sparked mixed reactions.
No Built-in Charging System
One of the biggest talking points is the lack of a built-in charging mechanism. Honda’s new scooters rely entirely on its battery-swapping infrastructure, with no fixed or removable charging options available. This approach forces users to depend solely on Honda’s swap stations, which could be a dealbreaker for many.
Honda Activa e: High Price, Low Practicality
Priced at ₹1,17,000, the Activa e brings a premium experience but falls short in practicality. Its large battery size significantly reduces under-seat storage, which is a key concern for daily commuters. However, the model does include several advanced features:
- LED headlamps
- TFT instrument console
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- 6 kW motor, achieving 0-60 km/h in 7.3 seconds with a top speed of 80 km/h
Battery & Range
The Activa e houses two 1.5 kWh battery packs, offering a real-world range of 102 km. While the range is decent for city commuting, the lack of a charging alternative limits flexibility.
RoadSync Model: Affordable but Subscription-Based
Honda’s RoadSync model is priced at a budget-friendly ₹52,000, making it an appealing choice. However, it comes with a major catch—swappable batteries are only available under a subscription plan. This dependency on subscriptions might make the model less attractive for cost-conscious buyers.
Honda QC1 Model: Budget-Friendly with Decent Features
The Honda QC1, priced at ₹90,000, is another offering in the lineup. It features a BLDC motor, a top speed of 50 km/h, and a claimed 80 km range. Additional highlights include:
- 26L under-seat storage
- Charging time: 4 hours 30 minutes
However, the actual range may vary, and the absence of fast-charging capabilities could be a drawback.
Design & Usability
Honda’s latest electric scooters boast a minimalist, adaptable design, catering to modern riders. However, the lack of a charging port could hinder mass adoption, as users must rely entirely on Honda’s infrastructure.
Final Verdict
While Honda’s new electric scooters showcase promising features and competitive pricing, their reliance on battery swapping instead of conventional charging could limit their appeal. In an increasingly competitive EV market, this strategy might pose a challenge in attracting a wider customer base. Honda’s success will ultimately depend on how quickly and efficiently it expands its battery-swapping network across India.
Would you consider buying one of Honda’s new electric scooters? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!