Honda has finally stepped into the electric two-wheeler world with two exciting scooters – the Activa E and QC 1. These new models are designed to make electric commuting easier and better for everyone. The Activa E is designed not just for Indian riders but also for growing global markets, making it a versatile choice.
Meanwhile, the QC 1 is made exclusively for Indian roads, ensuring it perfectly suits the country’s unique traffic and road conditions. Whether you’re looking for a scooter for daily city rides or a reliable EV for short trips, Honda has you covered. This means it is true to the fact that Honda scooters are designed with everyone in mind!
When Can You Get Yours?
Mark your calendars! Bookings open on January 1, 2025, with deliveries starting from February – March 2025. Initially, the scooters will hit the streets of Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Don’t worry if you’re in another city – Honda has plans to roll out to more locations soon after.
Made in India, for the World
These scooters are built at Honda’s factory near Bengaluru, Karnataka, which will handle both domestic and international demand. This aligns with Honda’s vision of creating EVs that cater to a global audience while keeping the needs of Indian riders in focus.
Interestingly, while Honda has already introduced electric scooters in Europe, like the CUV:e shown at EICMA 2024, the Activa E and QC 1 have been developed with a completely different approach. These models are tailored specifically for India, focusing on practicality, affordability, and reliability.
Let’s start with two fascinating new EVs: the Honda Activa E and the QC 1!
The Honda Activa E
Price Range: 1.30 Lakhs.
The Specs
The Activa e: is equipped with a pair of 1.5kWh swappable batteries, which together offer a claimed range of 102km on a full charge. Honda Power Pack Energy India develops and maintains these batteries, which are known as Honda Mobile Power Pack e. The company says it has already installed battery-swapping stations in Bengaluru and Delhi, and Mumbai will receive them soon. These batteries power a 6kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor with 22Nm of peak torque. It has three riding modes: Econ, Standard, and Sport, with the last reaching a top speed of 80kmph. It accelerates from 0 to 60kmph in 7.3 seconds.
Top Features
On the feature front, the Activa e: has a huge seven-inch TFT screen and a slew of connectivity features offered by the Honda RoadSync Duo smartphone program. The screen allows for navigation and can be controlled using toggle switches on the handlebar. It also features day and night modes.
Honda’s H-Smart essential features are also included, such as Smart Find, Smart Safe, Smart Unlock, and Smart Start. In terms of hardware, it rides on 12-inch alloy wheels suspended by telescopic forks and dual springs, with a disc-drum braking system.
Colour Options
The Honda Activa e: will be available in five colour options including Pearl Shallow Blue, Pearl Misty White, Pearl Serenity Blue, Matt Foggy Silver Metallic and Pearl Igneous Black.
The Honda QC1
Price Range: 1 Lakhs.
The QC1, built for short-distance travel, shares design elements with the Activa e, notably the apron and side panels. However, the scooter’s head is different due to the absence of LED DRL.
The Specs
The list of differences between QC1 and Activa e: extends with the powertrain option. The QC1 has a fixed 1.5 kWh battery pack. It has a dedicated charger that connects to the scooter via a socket located above the floorboard. The power from the batter is transferred to the tiny in-wheel motor, which has a power output of 1.2 kW (1.6 bhp) or 1.8 kW (2.4 bhp). All of this allows the EV to travel up to 80 kilometres. The QC1 features a 5-inch LCD instrument screen that allows the rider to interact with the EV by providing critical information. The EV also includes under-seat storage, a USB Type-C connection, and other features.
Market Positioning
In the electric scooter industry, the Honda QC1 distinguishes itself as a practical and affordable option. With its compact 1.5kWh battery pack and simple feature set, it’s evident that Honda developed this scooter with the mass-market audience in mind. While it may not intend to compete directly with ultra-low-cost offerings such as the Ola S1 Z, which starts at Rs 59,999, the QC1 offers a balanced blend of reliability, performance, and affordability that will appeal to everyday riders.
Honda’s careful rollout plan is what makes the QC1 even more approachable. Pre-orders begin on January 1, 2025, and deliveries begin as early as February. Unlike the Activa E, which is initially limited to Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, the QC1 will be released across India. To ensure a smooth purchase experience, Honda will use its established network of Red Wing dealerships to bring the QC1 closer to customers across the country. With its reasonable pricing and Honda’s trusted reputation, the QC1 is poised to become a popular choice among riders looking for an economical yet reliable electric scooter.
To conclude, Honda’s entry into the electric scooter industry with the Activa E and QC1 is nothing short of exciting. These scooters build on Honda’s legacy of reliability and innovation, offering practical alternatives for both everyday commuters and short-distance travellers.
If you’re curious to learn more or want a detailed comparison, connect with SearchEV today and let us help you find the perfect electric ride!
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Honda Activa E Debuted on November 27 – A Quick Sneak Peak!
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