Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has announced the launch of its battery swapping service, Honda e:Swap, for the newly launched Honda Activa e: electric scooter. The service is set to commence in Bengaluru in February 2025, followed by New Delhi and Mumbai in April 2025.
Battery Swapping Network
Honda Power Pack Energy India (HEID), a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., will manage the battery swapping service. HEID plans to establish a vast network of battery swapping stations across major Indian cities. By March 2026, Bengaluru will have 250 stations, New Delhi 150, and Mumbai 100. This network aims to provide a convenient and cost-effective solution for electric vehicle users, addressing range anxiety and high EV costs.
Honda e:Swap: How It Works?
Users of the Activa e: can access the battery swap stations by registering on the HEID mobile app upon purchasing the scooter. The app-based system streamlines the battery swapping process, allowing users to exchange depleted batteries (Honda Mobile Power Pack e:) for fully charged ones at designated stations. This eliminates the need for long charging times and ensures uninterrupted travel.
Benefits and Partnerships
The battery swapping service reduces the initial cost of purchasing an electric vehicle, as HEID owns the batteries. This ownership model lowers the barrier to entry for electric vehicle adoption. HEID has partnered with various organizations, including Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Limited (DMRC), Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited, and HMSI dealerships, to strategically locate its battery exchangers.
Honda’s battery swapping service aligns with its global carbon neutrality goals and commitment to sustainable mobility. The company aims to build India’s largest battery swap network, supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles. The Activa e: will be available in five colors: Pearl Shallow Blue, Pearl Misty White, Pearl Serenity Blue, Matt Foggy Silver Metallic, and Pearl Igneous Black. Bookings for the new scooter will commence from January 1, 2025.
Also Read: Honda ‘Activa e’ electric scooter revealed for India