Honda aims to leverage its existing market presence with the Activa E electric scooter. The challenge lies in competing with established players like TVS iQube and the Bajaj Chetak. Honda’s strategy involves a battery exchange network to ease range anxiety. This approach has led to the introduction of more affordable BAAS (Battery as a Service) plans for the Activa-E.
The Lite Plan is now available at Rs 678, providing up to 20 kWh of usage. These battery rental costs are integrated into the scooter’s price. Honda Power Pack Energy India manages the battery swapping stations. The Activa E has 1.5 kWh removable battery packs and a mid-mounted motor, which impacts boot space. The scooter offers a range of approximately 102 km on a full charge.
The primary drawback is the dependence on battery swapping, as standard charging isn’t supported. Initial BAAS pricing included the Basic Plan at Rs 1,999 for up to 35 kWh per month, and the Advanced Plan at Rs 3,599 for up to 82 kWh per month.
A comparison highlights the Activa E’s specifications: it features a 6KW Axle Mounted Wheel Side PMSM Motor, a 3KWH battery capacity (two swappable 1.5KWH batteries), and a range of 102km per charge. In contrast, the TVS iQube has a 3KW BLDC Motor, battery packs of 2.2 KWH and 3.4KWH, and a range of 75km/100km. The Bajaj Chetak offers 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 has a Swingarm Mounted 4.1 KW motor, a 3.07 KWH LFP battery, and a range of 95 Km. The Activa E is equipped with DRL’s, Bluetooth Connectivity, and Keyless Ignition, similar to the features available on its competitors.