Need time to stabilise after BS-VI before moving to electric two-wheelers, says Honda

Japanese automobile major Honda on Tuesday said the two-wheeler industry in India needs more time to stabilise after BS-VI changeover before moving to full electric vehicles (EVs).

Joining its Indian counterparts Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor Co in opposing the Niti Aayog’s proposal to completely ban two-wheelers that are powered by internal combustion engines (ICEs) of up to 150cc from 2025, the company called for a plan jointly prepared by all concerned stakeholders before taking such a step.

Honda, which is present in the country through a wholly-owned subsidiary Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI), said despite its 25 years of experience of developing and selling electric two-wheeler adoption of such vehicles has remaind a challenge due to various factors.

“The industry needs more time to stabilise after BS-VI changeover before we take the next step of moving from IC engine technology, especially considering Indian customer requirement of higher daily commuting distance and price consciousness,” HMSI said in a statement.

From April 2020, India will implement strict BS-VI emission norms across the country for all categories of new vehicles.

Recently, Honda unveiled its Bharat Stage VI (BS6) compliant Honda Activa 125 set to go on sale in September this year, ahead of the official deadline of April 1 next year. 

The new BS6 compliant Honda Activa 125 has received some styling updates including new LED headlamp with reflectors, chrome inserts on side panels, and a new taillamp among others. The scooter will be offered with several updated colour options including Rebel Red Metallic, Black, Pearl Precious White, Majestic Brown Metallic, Heavy Grey Metallic and Midnight Blue Metallic.

Interestingly, the upcoming Honda Activa 125 will be equipped with fuel injection. While the engine details are yet to be revealed, the scooter will come with the same 125 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine updated with the company's PGM-FI fuel-injection technology to meet the BS6 regulations. It will also offer 10 per cent more fuel efficiency.

The company further said, “Honda requests a well-laid-out plan jointly prepared by government, industry and all concerned stakeholders looking at the aspects of air pollution, energy security, cost of technology, availability of raw materials and Infrastructure while addressing employment impact to increase stepwise penetration of EVs (electric vehicles).”

Globally, Honda has an experience of developing and selling electric two-wheelers for over 25 years.

“Due to multiple factors, including vehicle cost, riding performance, range and infrastructure, customers’ adoption of EV is still a major challenge,” it said.

On Monday, India’s big three two-wheeler makers—Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor Co—hit out at the Niti Aayog’s plan to push for 100 per cent electric vehicle for up to 150 cc engine capacity, saying such a transition was completely uncalled for and could jeopardise the industry.

(With inputs from PTI)