Honda Activa e comes with swappable battery while QC1 gets a fixed battery
Honda has entered the Indian electric scooter market with the launch of two models: the Activa e: and the QC1. Both scooters aim to address diverse segments of the market with their unique features and specifications. While the Activa e: caters to a more premium audience with advanced features and performance, the QC1 is positioned as a more accessible, utilitarian option.
Activa e: Highlights
The Activa e: marks Honda’s foray into the premium electric scooter segment. Powered by two swappable 1.5kWh batteries, it offers a claimed IDC range of 102 km per charge. These batteries can be swapped at Honda’s Power Pack Exchanger e: stations, making it convenient for users in urban areas. The 6kW motor delivers 22 Nm of torque, propelling the scooter to a top speed of 80 km/hr and enabling it to sprint from 0 to 60 km/hr in 7.3 seconds.
Available in two variants—Standard and Honda RoadSync Duo—the Activa e: offers distinct display and connectivity options. The Standard variant features a 5-inch TFT display with limited Bluetooth functionality, while the RoadSync Duo gets a 7-inch dashboard with turn-by-turn navigation and notifications. Both variants include three riding modes—Eco, Standard and Sport—as well as a reverse function.
With its underbone frame, telescopic fork and monoshock setup, the Activa e: offers balanced ride dynamics. Its 118-119 kg kerb weight, 12-inch wheels and 171 mm ground clearance make it suitable for Indian road conditions. The scooter also features all-LED lighting, flush-fitting pillion footpegs and keyless functionality via a fob. However, underseat storage is limited due to the dual battery setup.
QC1: Highlights
The Honda QC1 offers a more basic package. Powered by a single 1.5kWh fixed battery, it delivers a claimed range of 80 km on a full charge. Charging the battery takes approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes, though it can reach 80% in 4 hours and 30 minutes using the provided 330-watt charger.
The QC1’s hub-mounted BLDC motor generates 1.8kW (2.4 HP) of peak power and 77Nm of torque, enabling a top speed of 50 km/hr and a 0-40 km/hr sprint in 9.7 seconds. With a kerb weight of 89.5kg, it is lightweight and beginner-friendly. The QC1 features a 12/10-inch alloy wheel setup, basic drum brakes and a negative LCD display. It offers two riding modes—Eco and Standard—and boasts a 26-litre underseat storage compartment, which surpasses the Activa e:.
Common Features and Market Positioning
Both scooters share design elements, colour options (two blues, white, grey and black), and Honda’s Red Wing dealerships for distribution. However, the Activa e: stands out with its premium features and swappable batteries, while the QC1 prioritises affordability and practicality.
The Activa e: will initially be available only in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, with pre-bookings starting on 1st January, 2025 and deliveries in February. Honda plans to expand its Power Pack Exchanger e: network to 250 stations in Bengaluru by 2026, aiming for a station every 5 km. In contrast, the QC1 will have a wider rollout across multiple cities.
Honda has also introduced a Battery-as-a-Service option for the Activa e:, details of which are expected soon. For the QC1, the fixed battery approach and modest pricing are aimed at capturing the mass-market segment.
Manufacturing and Future Plans
Both scooters are manufactured at Honda’s Narsapura plant in Karnataka, highlighting the company’s commitment to local production. Honda’s two-pronged strategy with the Activa e: and QC1 aims to tap into the growing demand for electric mobility in India, catering to both premium and budget-conscious customers.
