The iconic Honda Activa needs little introduction in India’s two-wheeler market—revered for its reliability, simplicity, and widespread appeal. In 2025, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) brought the legacy into the future with the launch of the Honda Activa e, marking its long-awaited debut into electric mobility.
This transformation retains the familiar spirit of the Activa but reimagines it as a smart, eco-friendly electric scooter. With swappable battery technology, connected features, and the trusted Activa design, the electric version is poised to appeal to both loyal customers and a new generation of EV adopters.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Dual 1.5 kWh swappable lithium-ion batteries (total 3 kWh) |
| Motor | Wheel-side electric motor; rated output 4.2 kW, peak output 6.0 kW, torque 22 Nm |
| Range (claimed) | Up to 102 km per full charge |
| Top Speed | 80 km/h |
| Acceleration (0–60 km/h) | Approximately 7.3 seconds |
| Riding Modes | Eco, Standard, Sport, plus Reverse Mode |
| Display & Connectivity | 5-inch or 7-inch TFT LCD/TFT screen with Bluetooth, navigation, OTA via RoadSync Duo interface |
| Swappable Battery System | Honda Mobile Power Pack e: technology; supported via swappable stations |
| Brakes & Suspension | Front disc brake; rear drum brake; telescopic front fork; dual rear spring suspension |
| Variants & Pricing | Standard variant ( |
| Warranty & Services | 3 years or 50,000 km warranty; three free services; first-year roadside assistance |
| Launch Timeline & Availability | Bookings from January 1, 2025; deliveries start February 2025; initially in select metro cities |
Legacy Meets Innovation
Iconic design, redefined
Honda has kept the classic Activa’s design DNA intact, blending it with modern elements such as LED lighting, streamlined body panels, and alloy wheels to deliver a scooter that is both familiar and futuristic.
Swappable battery convenience
One of the Indian Activa e’s most differentiating attributes is its battery swap capability. The scooter utilizes two compact, swappable batteries. These can be exchanged at Honda’s e:Swap stations, effectively eliminating long charge times and easing range anxiety.
Smart, connected riding experience
Equipped with the advanced RoadSync Duo system, the scooter offers real-time navigation, live updates, call/SMS alerts, and app-based OTA features. The H‑Smart key adds gesture controls such as Smart Find, Smart Unlock, Smart Start, enhancing convenience and personalization.
Performance & Usability
Urban-friendly performance
With a 6 kW motor and 22 Nm torque, paired with multiple riding modes, the Activa e balances efficiency and excitement. Riders can select Eco for extended range or Sport for a more responsive ride. The inclusion of a reverse gear further simplifies tight-space maneuvering.
Swappable batteries in action
The 3 kWh combined battery pack grants a claimed 102 km range, ideal for daily commutes. Swapping batteries at designated stations—already present in Bengaluru and expanding to Delhi and Mumbai—offers near-instant energy refills.
Comfort and ride quality
True to its heritage, the Activa e ensures comfortable city commuting with its telescopic front suspension, dual rear springs, and agile chassis. Braking is competent with a front disc and rear drum setup. Handling remains user-friendly, especially for daily use.
Variants and Pricing
Two variants cater to varied customer preferences:
- Standard: Basic TFT or LCD instrument display, priced at approximately ₹1.17 lakh (ex-showroom).
- RoadSync Duo: Features the 7-inch TFT screen with enhanced connectivity, priced around ₹1.52 lakh (ex-showroom).
Both variants come with a comprehensive warranty, service package, and a fast-responding after-sales network, making adoption seamless for existing Activa owners.
Launch Strategy and Market Presence
Bookings and deliveries
HMSI began taking bookings for the Activa e and related models on January 1, 2025, at select dealerships nationwide. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in February 2025, targeting major metro areas initially.
Infrastructure support
To support the swappable battery model, Honda is rolling out a network of e:Swap stations. Bengaluru is already covered extensively, with plans to expand to Delhi and Mumbai shortly.
Manufacturing capacity
The electric scooter is being produced at Honda’s Karnataka facility. This complements HMSI’s broader expansion of production capacity across India to meet rising EV demand efficiently.
Pros and Considerations
Why Owners Will Appreciate the Activa e
- Familiar comfort: No steep learning curve for existing Activa users.
- Zero-emission commuting: A step forward in urban sustainability.
- Battery flexibility: Swap instead of wait.
- Connected riding: Modern infotainment and navigation at your fingertips.
- Support infrastructure: Honda’s trusted service network ensures peace of mind.
What Buyers Should Note
Some owners have raised concerns about the absence of traditional under-seat storage due to the battery placement design. Though the swappable platform offers convenience, it may compromise luggage flexibility. Additionally, the cost, both upfront and through potential battery rental or swap fees, is higher compared to comparable ICE scooters and entry-level EVs.
Summary
The Honda Activa e symbolizes a crucial milestone for India’s EV journey. It bridges the legacy of the beloved Activa with modern electric mobility technology. By integrating swappable battery infrastructure, smart connectivity, and timeless design, Honda has carefully crafted an electric scooter that appeals to commuters, urban riders, and brand loyalists alike.
While challenges like storage limitations and pricing exist, the Activa e delivers a compelling proposition: environmentally conscious, convenient, and rooted in trusted performance. As Honda scales production and expands charging infrastructure nationwide, this electric variant promises to win over many hearts—much as its petrol sibling has for decades.
Let me know if you’d like a comparison with competitors like Ather, Ola, or TVS, or if you’d like a spotlight on charging infrastructure and total cost of ownership for prospective buyers.