Honda is banking on its Activa E electric scooter and its QC1 to build on its established success in the conventional two-wheeler market. Facing competition from the TVS iQube, the OLA line, and the Bajaj Chetak EV, Honda is looking for a way to stand out. To achieve this, Honda is implementing a battery exchange network. The positive response to the initial program has led to more affordable BAAS (Battery as a Service) battery rental plans for the Activa-E.
The new Lite Plan is priced at Rs 678 for up to 20 kWh. These charges are included in the scooter’s price. Honda Power Pack Energy India will manage the battery swapping stations. The Activa E uses 1.5 kWh removable battery packs and a mid-mounted motor, limiting boot space. It offers a range of about 102 km per full charge.
One key disadvantage is the reliance on battery swapping, as the scooter cannot be charged via a standard wall charger. Initial BAAS plans started at Rs 1,999 for up to 35 kWh per month (Basic Plan) and Rs 3,599 for up to 82 kWh per month (Advanced Plan).
Compared to competitors, the Activa E faces the following: the Activa E has a 6KW Axle Mounted Wheel Side PMSM Motor, 3KWH battery capacity with two swappable 1.5KWH batteries, and offers 102km/ Per Charge. The TVS iQube has a 3KW BLDC Motor, Battery Pack with 2.2 KWH and 3.4KWH, and range of 75km/100km/ Per charge. The Bajaj Chetak has 3.5 kwh Motor, Battery capacity from 2.88 KWH To 3.5 KWH, and range of 123km to 153km. The Suzuki e-Access has Swingarm Mounted 4.1 KW motor, 3.07 KWH LFP battery, and range of 95 Km. Feature-wise, the Activa E offers DRL’s, Bluetooth Connectivity, and Keyless Ignition, similar to many of its competitors like TVS iQube and Bajaj Chetak.
