India’s electric scooter market is heating up, with many new models entering the fray. Honda’s Activa E is poised to be a contender, given the brand’s established presence. Honda is relying heavily on its new electric scooters- the Activa E and QC1- based on its strong legacy in the conventional two-wheeler segment. However, competition is fierce, with established rivals like the TVS iQube, OLA, and the Bajaj Chetak EV.
To stand out, Honda is planning a battery exchange network, which can help alleviate range anxiety. The early reactions to this test program have been positive, pushing Honda to unveil cheaper BaaS (Battery-as-a-Service) rental options with the Activa E.
These new programs are anticipated to significantly increase the scooter’s attractiveness, especially for city commuters who are cost-conscious.
Let’s explore in detail.
| Baas plans | Charges above Activa-e |
|—|—|
| Lite Plan | Rs 676 |
| Basic Plan | Rs 1,999 |
| Advance Plan | Rs 3,599 |
One of the biggest downsides is that the scooter cannot be charged using a standard wall outlet; battery swapping is the only way to power it. The BaaS (Battery-as-a-Service) plan from Honda started at ₹1,999 for up to 35 kWh monthly under the Basic Plan, and the Advanced Plan was priced at ₹3,599 for up to 82 kWh monthly.
Based on consumer feedback, Honda has launched a new Lite Plan for ₹678, which gives up to 20 kWh monthly. The price of these battery rental plans is added to the price of the scooter. Battery swapping stations will be run and maintained by Honda Power Pack Energy India.
Adding to the list of drawbacks, the battery swapping system leaves almost no practical boot space. The scooter has a 1.5 kWh removable battery pack and a mid-mounted motor, delivering a claimed range of about 102 km on a full charge.
**Activa vs TVS I-QUBE vs Bajaj Chetak**
| Comparison | Honda Activa-E | TVS I-Qube | Bajaj Chetak | Suzuki e-Access |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Motor Capacity | 6KW Axle Mounted Wheel Side PMSM Motor | 3KW BLDC Motor | 3.5 kwh Motor | Swingarm Mounted 4.1 KW |
| Battery Capacity | 3KWH, Two Swap able 1.5KWH batteries | The vehicle is available with 3 battery Packs, 2.2 KWH,AND 3.4KWH | The Vehicle has a battery capacity of 2.88 KWH To 3.5 KWH | 3.07 KWH LFP battery |
| Range | 102km/ Per Charge | 75km/100km/ Per charge | 123km to 153km | 95 Km |
| Features | DRL’s, Bluetooth Connectivity, Keyless Ignition | DRLs, Fast Charging, Bluetooth, LED Tail Light | Fast Charging, Bluetooth, Led Tail Light | Fast Charging, Bluetooth, Led Tail Light |
| Prices | Estimated Price- 1,17,000 | 89,999- 1,85,373 | 95,998 to 1,27,243 | 1,00,000 to 1,20,000 |
Considering the prices, the Honda Activa-E could appear somewhat expensive, but the prices seem worthwhile because Honda also offers a battery exchange program along with their vehicles. However, if affordability is key, the Bajaj Chetak or TVS I-Qube would be the ideal option.