By Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has officially ventured into the electric vehicle (EV) segment with the launch of two groundbreaking electric scooters: Activa E and QC1. This marks the company’s entry into the EV space as part of its global commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050.
Bookings and Availability
The bookings for these e-scooters will open on January 1, 2025, with deliveries scheduled to commence in February 2025. Both models will be manufactured at Honda’s Narsapura plant in Karnataka.
Honda Activa E
The Activa E is a sleek, high-performance scooter built with a 6 kW direct drive motor, providing a range of 102 km and a maximum speed of 80 km/h.
- Battery: It comes equipped with a swappable battery setup housing two 1.5 kWh batteries, offering users enhanced convenience for long-distance travel.
- Design: While the Activa E shares its frame with the popular ICE Activa, it features a modern and minimalistic design. Key highlights include an LED headlamp with integrated indicators, a small floorboard, and a long seat with a stylish rear badge.
- Features: A 7-inch TFT screen provides detailed vehicle information, while three riding modes—Standard, Sport, and Econ—offer tailored performance for varied needs.
Honda QC1
The QC1 is designed specifically for urban commutes and short-distance travel. Featuring a compact in-wheel motor and 1.5 kWh fixed battery pack, the QC1 boasts a range of 80 km with a top speed of 50 km/h.
- Charging: The QC1 relies on a dedicated charger with a socket conveniently placed on the floorboard. Charging times include 4 hours 30 minutes for 0-80% and 6 hours 50 minutes for a full charge.
- Features: It is equipped with a 5-inch LCD display, 26 liters of under-seat storage, a USB Type-C port, and two riding modes—Standard and Eco.
Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Activa E | QC1 |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Output | 6 kW (max) | 1.8 kW (max) |
| Battery Setup | Swappable (2 x 1.5 kWh) | Fixed (1.5 kWh) |
| Range | 102 km | 80 km |
| Top Speed | 80 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Display | 7-inch TFT | 5-inch LCD |
| Charging Time | Not specified | 6 hr 50 min (0-100%) |
| Riding Modes | Standard, Sport, Econ | Standard, Eco |
| Under-Seat Storage | Not disclosed | 26 liters |
Global Perspective
These models represent Honda’s 12th and 13th electric vehicles globally, as the company works toward its goal of introducing 30 EVs worldwide. The launch signifies a significant step in Honda’s ambition to electrify motorcycles and achieve a sustainable future.
With their advanced features, Honda Activa E and QC1 are poised to set new standards in the Indian electric scooter market. The combination of performance, practicality, and eco-friendliness makes these scooters an excellent choice for urban and suburban users alike.
