In India, when everyone hears the name of Honda Activa, the image of a reliable and long-lasting scooter comes to their mind. For millions of Indians, Activa is not just a vehicle but has become a part of the family. Now taking this trusted name forward, Honda has entered the world of electric vehicles and has brought Honda Activa e.
In November last year, after a long wait and speculation, the company introduced two electric scooters simultaneously in India – Honda Activa e and QC1. Out of these, Activa e is being given special importance because Honda has started the electric journey using the name of its best-selling scooter.
About two months after the launch, when this scooter has hit the roads of Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, then we also got a chance to ride it on the roads of Bangalore i.e. “Garden City”. After a few hours of ride, we tested this scooter carefully and now we have brought its detailed review for you.
Design: New Activa with a Glimpse of the Future
If you see the Honda Activa e for the first time, it will be clear that this is the Activa of the future. Honda has adopted a minimalist approach in its design, that is, there are not many cuts and creases on the body. The scooter looks very smooth and sleek.
Key Highlights of the Design
- Side profile: Diamond-cut alloy wheels are the first to attract attention. Apart from this, “Activa e” badging has been given near the rear lights on the smooth flush side panels.
- For pillion rider: Flush footrests have been given which fold inwards and can be taken out when needed.
- Seat and grab rail: Dual-tone seat has been given which gives a premium look to the scooter. A single-piece grab handle has been given at the rear.
- Lighting setup: Full LED setup has been given at the rear which gives a more futuristic look to the scooter.
- Colour Options: Honda has introduced five colours in it – Pearl Shallow Blue, Pearl Serenity Blue, Pearl Mystery White, Matte Foggy Silver Metallic and Pearl Igneous Black.
Among these colours, especially the blue shades and matte silver will definitely attract the youth.
Features: Full of Technology
The features of Honda Activa e make it different from its petrol sibling.
- Digital Screen: The top model has a large 7-inch colour LCD display while the base variant gets a 5-inch screen.
- Control System: Joystick and buttons are provided on the left-hand switchgear to control the screen.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The display supports Bluetooth and has features like turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts, geofencing.
- Honda RoadSync Duo App: With the help of this app, you can get information about your scooter’s location, battery status and swapping station.
- Smart Key: The top variant comes with a smart key feature that lets you lock, unlock or start the scooter and even find it in a crowd.
Complaints on the Screen
Although the display is big and colorful, its resolution is not as high as expected. Day and night modes are good but the pixel density could have been better.
Practicality: A Little Disappointing
Now let’s talk about the most important aspect of the scooter i.e. practicality. Here the Honda Activa e seems a little behind.
- Front storage: There are two small storage spaces in the front apron in which you can keep your mobile phone but not much luggage can be kept.
- USB-C charging port: A port for charging the phone and a luggage hook are definitely provided.
- Under seat storage: You will find batteries here as this scooter runs on a removable battery setup. There is very little space, you can only keep a toolkit and a small water bottle.
That is, if you want to buy a scooter to carry more luggage, then it can create some trouble for you.
Why Choose Honda Activa e?
- Future confidence: A company like Honda has started the electric journey with the Activa brand name. This means that its service and parts will be easily available in the coming years.
- Futuristic design: It is a perfect choice for the youth with stylish and modern looks.
- Technology: Features like smart key, app connectivity and Bluetooth available in it make it premium.
- Silent and smooth drive: Due to having an electric motor, its ride is very smooth and noiseless.
Challenges and Limitations
- Lack of storage space: Do not expect a large boot space like the petrol Activa.
- First-generation problems: Since this is a new product, minor problems like battery performance and software updates may arise in the initial days.
- Impact on practicality: This scooter is not that effective for those who carry more luggage.
Future of Electric Scooters and Activa e
The electric vehicle market in India is growing rapidly. Government schemes, charging infrastructure and rising petrol-diesel prices are accelerating this change. Honda has shown with Activa e that it is not just following the trend but wants to lead it.
If Honda improves the battery technology in the coming time, removes the lack of storage and keeps the price competitive, then Activa e can become the new identity of electric scooters in India.
Conclusion
Honda Activa e is a product that gives a glimpse of the future. The design is modern, the features are techno The space is spacious and the ride quality is smooth. While there are some initial issues and lack of storage, it is clear that Honda has built this scooter for the long haul.