Honda is strategically positioning its Activa E electric scooter in the competitive electric vehicle market. The company is seeking to build upon its established brand recognition, but it faces competition from the TVS iQube, and the Bajaj Chetak EV. The strategy includes a battery exchange network to alleviate range concerns, leading to the introduction of more affordable BAAS battery rental plans for the Activa-E.
The new Lite Plan is now available at a price of Rs 678 for usage up to 20 kWh, which is incorporated into the scooter’s cost. The battery swapping stations are managed by Honda Power Pack Energy India. A key limitation is the Activa E’s exclusive reliance on battery swapping, as it does not support standard charging. The scooter uses two 1.5 kWh removable battery packs and a mid-mounted motor, impacting boot space. The Activa E promises a range of approximately 102 km on a full charge.
The initial BAAS plans included a Basic Plan at Rs 1,999 for up to 35 kWh per month and an Advanced Plan at Rs 3,599 for up to 82 kWh per month.
Analyzing the specifications, the Activa E incorporates a 6KW Axle Mounted Wheel Side PMSM Motor, 3KWH battery capacity (two swappable 1.5KWH batteries), and a range of 102km per charge. The TVS iQube includes a 3KW BLDC Motor, 2.2 KWH and 3.4KWH battery packs, with a range of 75km/100km. The Bajaj Chetak features a 3.5 kwh Motor, battery capacity from 2.88 KWH To 3.5 KWH, and a range of 123km to 153km. The Suzuki e-Access utilizes a Swingarm Mounted 4.1 KW motor, a 3.07 KWH LFP battery, and has a range of 95 Km. Similar to its competitors like the TVS iQube and Bajaj Chetak, the Activa E has features such as DRL’s, Bluetooth Connectivity, and Keyless Ignition.