The Activa E is powered by a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) with a peak output of 6 kW, enabling the scooter to accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in 7.3 seconds. It offers three riding modes—Eco, Standard, and Sport—allowing riders to choose between maximizing range or performance based on their needs. The scooter achieves a top speed of 80 km/h, suitable for city commutes and occasional highway stretches.

The dual swappable lithium-ion batteries, each with a capacity of 1.5 kWh, provide a combined capacity of 3 kWh, delivering a claimed range of 102 km on a single charge.

While cruising around 50-60 km/h, I got about 80 km of range on a full charge from 100% to 0% SOC. This is a bit unrealistic; expect about 70 km on average.

Now here lies the dumbest thing I have ever witnessed. Honda charges ₹2,000 a month for 35 kWh or about 11 battery swaps. A full charge can do 80 kilometers at once, so 11 swaps mean 880 km of drivable range per month at ₹2,000 (GST extra!). So ₹2,000/880 km = ₹2.27 per kilometer. A regular Activa returns about 50 kilometers per ₹100 of fuel or around ₹2 per kilometer.

So not only is the Honda Activa Electric ten percent more expensive, but it also costs about ₹1.30 lakh on-road, has ZERO storage, and you cannot charge it at all. Currently, chances of seeing a unicorn in Gurgaon are higher than finding one of these swapping stations.

Ride and Handling

Riding the Activa E through city streets reveals its agility and user-friendly nature. The telescopic front suspension and 3-step adjustable spring-loaded hydraulic rear suspension effectively absorb road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride. The scooter's lightweight build, with a kerb weight of 118 kg for the Standard variant and 119 kg for the RoadSync Duo variant, ensures easy maneuverability in traffic.

The 12-inch alloy wheels, fitted with tubeless tires (90/90-12 at the front and 110/80-12 at the rear), offer stability and confidence during cornering and braking. The braking system comprises a 160 mm disc at the front and a 130 mm drum at the rear, delivering adequate stopping power for urban riding scenarios.

In the burgeoning electric scooter market, the Honda Activa E faces competition from models like the TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, and Ampere Magnus EX. We will skip OLA due to their extremely poor service network.

The TVS iQube offers a higher range of 145 km and a comparable top speed, positioning it as a strong contender for those prioritizing longer distances. The Bajaj Chetak, with its retro-inspired design and robust build quality, is the best seller, moving 30,000 units in March 2025.

The Ampere Magnus EX provides an economical option with a range of 120 km, catering to budget-conscious consumers. Each of these models presents unique strengths, and the Activa E distinguishes itself through Honda's brand reliability and the convenience of its battery-swapping infrastructure.

The Honda Activa E represents a significant step in Honda's journey toward electrification, offering a well-rounded package for urban commuters. Its design, feature set, and performance align with the expectations of modern riders seeking sustainable mobility solutions. However, the reliance on a battery-swapping system, while innovative, may pose challenges for users without convenient access to swapping stations.