Honda accelerates India’s EV journey with ACTIVA e: and QC1 debut

The ACTIVA e: will launch in Bengaluru, the National Capital Territory of Delhi, and Mumbai in spring 2025, accompanied by Honda’s e:Swap battery-sharing service.

Honda has unveiled two new electric personal commuters for the Indian market: the ACTIVA e: and QC1. The ACTIVA e: features two swappable Honda Mobile Power Pack e: batteries, while the QC1 comes equipped with a fixed battery system. These launches mark a significant step in Honda’s commitment to advancing electric mobility and achieving carbon neutrality.

As part of its environmental vision, Honda aims to achieve carbon neutrality across all its products and corporate activities by 2050 and in its motorcycle lineup during the 2040s. Electrification of motorcycles is a core pillar of this strategy. Positioning 2024 as a pivotal year for the global expansion of its electric motorcycle portfolio, Honda has already introduced two models in Indonesia and now adds the ACTIVA e: and QC1 as the 12th and 13th models in its global roadmap of 30 electric models to be launched by 2030.

Both the ACTIVA e: and QC1 will be manufactured in India, bolstering Honda’s electric commuter offerings to cater to the growing demand for sustainable mobility in the country. To complement these vehicles, Honda Power Pack Energy India Private Limited will roll out the Honda e:Swap battery-sharing service in Bengaluru, the National Capital Territory of Delhi, and Mumbai. This service is designed to enhance customer convenience and promote seamless electric mobility.

Honda is committed to expanding its electric motorcycle lineup, catering to diverse customer needs, and accelerating the shift toward sustainable transportation. With a focus on innovation and environmental responsibility, the company plans to offer a wide range of electric motorcycles in the coming years.

ACTIVA e:

The ACTIVA e: is Honda’s newly developed electric model, built on the body and frame of the ACTIVA—Honda’s best-selling motorcycle globally and in India, with annual sales of approximately 2.5 million units. Designed as an electric commuter equivalent to a 110-cc internal combustion engine model, the ACTIVA e: is powered by two Honda Mobile Power Pack e: swappable batteries.

Staying true to the ACTIVA’s trusted design, the ACTIVA e: incorporates a sleek, simple aesthetic that distinguishes it as an electric vehicle. Futuristic LED combination lights and indicators at both the front and rear add a modern touch to its appearance.

The ACTIVA e: is equipped with Honda’s proprietary wheel-side motor, delivering a rated output of 4.2 kW and a maximum output of 6.0 kW. Enhanced magnetic circuit optimization has increased efficiency, enabling a cruising range of 102 km, ideal for everyday commuting needs. Riders can choose from three driving modes—STANDARD, SPORT, and ECON—to suit different riding conditions, with an additional reverse mode for hassle-free parking.

For enhanced connectivity, the ACTIVA e: features Honda RoadSync Duo®, a service that allows users to make phone calls and access navigation by connecting a smartphone via Bluetooth®.

The ACTIVA e: is set to launch in Bengaluru, the National Capital Territory of Delhi, and Mumbai in spring 2025. In these cities, Honda will also introduce the Honda e:Swap service, offering battery-swapping stations using the Honda Mobile Power Pack e:. This service eliminates concerns about battery depletion and recharge wait times, providing a seamless and worry-free mobility experience.

QC1

QC1, incorporating the technology, know-how, and reliability of Honda’s gasoline-powered motorcycles, is a moped that will be launched exclusively for the Indian market in the spring of 2025, offering optimal dynamic performance for daily short-distance travel, such as commuting to school, and as an optimal choice for customers who place a high priority on economic efficiency.

QC1 is powered by a 1.5 kWh fixed battery that uses high-energy density and long-cycle life battery cells. The battery can be recharged at home using a dedicated charger.

The rear-wheel is driven by a compact in-wheel motor, with a rated output of 1.2 kW and a maximum output of 1.8 kW. The power control unit efficiently controls motor output to achieve a cruising range of 80 km per charge, enabling clean and quiet riding.

The headlights are a reassuring and near-future flush-surface design, creating an iconic look. High-intensity LEDs contribute to a sense of security for riding at night.

The highly legible 5-inch LCD instrument panel displays the speed, as well as other useful information including a battery level indicator, for enhanced convenience.

A luggage compartment under the seat provides space for storing a helmet and other small items. In addition, an inner rack and USB Type-C socket convenient for charging mobile devices are provided in the front section as standard equipment. QC1 is equipped with features for everyday use.