Honda Activa E QC1
It feels like just yesterday when electric scooters were a novelty in India, and now, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has jumped into the EV game with its first offerings: the Activa e: and the QC1. These aren’t just any scooters; they’re Honda’s first step toward electrifying their lineup in India while sticking to their global goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Let me tell you everything about these exciting new launches.
Activa e: – The Classic Name, Reimagined
The Activa name has been synonymous with reliable, no-fuss commuting for years, so it’s great to see Honda continuing its legacy in the EV world. The Activa e: is a fresh take on the classic, borrowing the body and frame from its ICE (internal combustion engine) sibling but with a modern, minimalistic twist.
The apron houses a sleek LED headlamp flanked by turn indicators, and Honda has added an LED DRL for that futuristic vibe. It’s compact but practical, with a small floorboard and a long seat that promises comfort. My favorite touch? The “Activa e:” badge integrated into the tail lamp unit – it’s subtle but stylish.
Underneath, the magic happens. The Activa e: comes with two swappable 1.5 kWh batteries, powering a wheel-side motor that delivers 4.2 kW (5.6 bhp) of power, which can go up to 6.0 kW (8 bhp) if needed. You’re looking at a range of 102 km on a single charge, making it ideal for everyday commutes. It even has three riding modes: Standard, Sport, and Econ, so you can choose the vibe of your ride.
QC1 – Designed for Urban India
If you’re looking for something smaller and simpler, the QC1 might be your perfect match. Launching in Spring 2025, this one’s built exclusively for India and focuses on short-distance urban commutes. At first glance, it shares some design cues with the Activa e:, like the apron and side panels, but skips the LED DRL for a more straightforward look.
The QC1 ditches the swappable battery setup for a fixed 1.5 kWh battery pack, charged via a socket conveniently located on the floorboard. The in-wheel motor delivers 1.2 kW (1.6 bhp) of power, peaking at 1.8 kW (2.4 bhp), which translates to a range of 80 km. Perfect for zipping through city traffic!
Honda didn’t skimp on the tech, either. The QC1 gets a 5-inch LCD instrument panel that displays all the essential ride details. It also packs practical features like under-seat storage and a USB Type-C charging port – a nice touch for those always on the go.
The Bigger Picture
Honda isn’t just stopping at scooters; they’re fully committed to electrifying their entire lineup while working toward a sustainable future. These scooters are just the beginning, and I’m genuinely excited to see what they bring next.
Whether you’re a fan of the swappable battery convenience of the Activa e: or the simplicity of the QC1, Honda’s first electric scooters are here to make a statement. And honestly, it feels like the future of two-wheelers in India just got a whole lot brighter.
