Honda Activa Electric, the iconic scooter now electrified! Honda targets four million EVs by 2030, powering a greener future.
Honda announced its plans for the electric two-wheeler industry, including a roadmap for both home and international markets. A gradual market expansion strategy will be used, with 2024 as the entry point. Honda will focus on modularisation and the use of existing ICE assets and knowledge to build affordable products.
Honda Activa Electric will be launched in 2024
Honda plans to introduce an electric two-wheeler in India with performance equivalent to a 110cc ICE two-wheeler. It will be marketed as a mass-market product, similar to the Honda Activa. Because the EV will be powered by two Honda Mobile Power Packs, it will most likely have a range of more than 100 kilometres.
Honda is designing a more premium product for overseas markets, including modern features like in-vehicle infotainment. The model for India will be released in 2024, with the worldwide model following in 2025. Indonesia will receive it first, followed by Japan and Europe.
Multiple battery technologies
The Honda Activa Electric 2024 that will be launched in India will include battery-swapping technology. Honda is developing multiple battery options for its forthcoming electric two-wheelers to balance costs and varying consumer needs. The majority of production will take place in Asia. Existing Honda electric two-wheeler models use nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) cell technology. Honda is developing lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells for future vehicles. The LFP cells will be employed in models launched after 2025.
By the end of this decade, Honda would have a significant position in the electric two-wheeler market. Around that time, Honda will begin introducing next-generation batteries. While no details are known, Honda has said that the next-generation battery packs will be affordable and increase the vehicle’s marketability. These improved battery packs will also enable the rapid adoption of electric two-wheelers.
ICE-based EV models
Honda electric two-wheelers introduced through 2026 will make the best use of current ICE assets. The entry phase for Honda will go from 2024 to 2026. Honda may speed up product development while simultaneously cutting overall costs by utilising current ICE parts. Honda has decades of experience in the internal combustion engine (ICE) category, which it will use to produce its first electric two-wheelers. Existing Honda ICE scooters already include modern features such as connectivity tech. Honda’s first line of electric two-wheelers will include such characteristics.
OTA updates will also be offered to keep the EV future-proof. The 2024 model will also feature a unique navigation system that will allow for easy access to available charging stations. Honda electric two-wheeler equipment will continue to improve over time. Beyond the 2024-2026 entrance phase, Honda has designated the period from 2026 to 2030 as the business expansion phase for its electric two-wheelers. After 2030, Honda’s electric two-wheeler company will enter a period of rapid expansion. Electric two-wheelers released at this time will be significantly more advanced.
Modularisation improves efficiency
Honda will prioritise the modularisation of core components such as the battery, power unit, and body to speed up the development of new vehicles and ensure smooth connection with ICE assets. Modularisation can minimise development and production costs while still providing users with a variety of models. Honda will establish new factories that will utilise modular platform technologies. Honda intends to become the leading brand in the electric two-wheeler segment by using its current global sales network.
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About The Author
Sangmesh M Gadge
Sangmesh is a car enthusiast who loves test-driving and exploring new cars. He enjoys sharing his driving experiences and insights with fellow automobile enthusiasts.