If you’re tired of constantly shelling out ₹80–₹100 on petrol every few days or you’re a delivery driver feeling the pinch of rising fuel prices, then the Honda Activa e might just be what you need. As India continues to push for more eco-friendly transportation solutions, this electric scooter is not just a way to save on fuel costs, but also an opportunity to go green without compromising on the convenience and style that the Activa name is known for. And with government subsidies rolling out in 2025, the Activa e could become even more affordable.
Let’s break down the key details, how the subsidies work, who qualifies, and how to apply, so you can make the most of this smart, green choice.
Honda Activa E: Key Features
The Honda Activa e marks a major shift for Honda, as it introduces the company’s first-ever electric scooter in India. Here’s why this could be your perfect choice:
- Price Range: ₹1.17 lakh to ₹1.52 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Battery: Dual removable, 1.5 kWh swappable batteries, offering 102 km range.
- Motor: 6 kW electric motor with a top speed of 80 km/h, making it ideal for city commutes.
- Design: Stylish, lightweight, and comfortable, just like the traditional Honda Activa you know and love.
- Other Features: Reverse gear, digital display, and smooth acceleration for an enjoyable ride.
Government Subsidies for the Honda Activa E
In 2025, there are some exciting subsidies available to make the transition to electric more affordable. However, since the Activa e features swappable batteries rather than fixed ones, it doesn’t fully qualify under the FAME II central subsidy scheme, which only covers scooters with fixed batteries. But don’t worry, you could still benefit from state-level subsidies that make the Activa e an even better deal, especially in states like Delhi, Gujarat, and Telangana.
FAME II Subsidy (Central Government)
The FAME II scheme offers subsidies based on battery types:
- ₹5,000 per kWh (up to ₹10,000 per vehicle) until March 2025
- ₹2,500 per kWh (up to ₹5,000 per vehicle) from April 2025
Since the Activa e uses swappable batteries, it does not fully qualify under this scheme. However, the Activa e could still be eligible for partial subsidies or discounts in certain states.
State-Level Subsidies
In states like Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana, you could qualify for an additional subsidy ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, particularly if you’re a woman, student, gig worker, or come from a low-income household. The amount varies by state and policy changes, so it’s important to check with your local dealer for the most accurate and updated information.
How Much Will You Pay?
Here’s an estimate of the on-road cost for the Honda Activa e, including possible subsidies:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price | Estimated On-Road Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹1,17,000 | ₹1,35,000–₹1,38,000 |
| Gujarat | ₹1,17,000 | ₹1,34,000–₹1,38,000 |
These prices are before any state-level subsidies or manufacturer discounts. If Activa e becomes FAME II-compliant in your region, the price could be even lower.
How to Apply for Subsidy?
To take advantage of the subsidy, follow these steps:
- Buy from a FAME-registered dealer: Ensure that the dealer is registered under the FAME II system.
- Complete e-KYC: This is Aadhaar-based verification to confirm your identity.
- Submit Documents: Provide documents like your Aadhaar card, address proof, and possibly income certificate.
- Subsidy Process: The dealer will either apply the subsidy directly on the billing amount or send the amount to your bank account later.
Who Qualifies for These Benefits?
- Indian citizens aged 18–55.
- Completed e-KYC via Aadhaar.
- Preferably living in cities with battery swapping stations (like Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai).
- Women, students, gig workers, and low-income households often have priority access.
Tips Before You Buy
Before making the switch to electric, consider these tips:
- Test Ride: Always take a test ride to ensure the scooter meets your expectations in terms of comfort and performance.
- Battery Swap Availability: Ensure that there are battery swapping stations near your area. This is especially important as you don’t own the battery and will need to swap it regularly.
- Understand the Battery Rental Model: The Activa e uses swappable batteries, meaning you don’t own the batteries, and you’ll be required to pay a fee for each swap.
- Compare Models: Compare the Honda Activa e with other electric scooters like the TVS iQube, Ola S1 Pro, and Hero Vida V2 to see which one offers the best subsidies, features, and convenience.
- State and Dealer-Specific Subsidies: Always check with your local dealer to ensure you’re aware of all available state-level subsidies and any manufacturer discounts.
Ready to Make the Switch?
If you’re done with rising petrol prices and want to embrace the future of electric mobility, the Honda Activa e offers a perfect blend of performance, affordability, and environmental friendliness. With government subsidies rolling out and more states offering benefits, it’s a great time to make the switch.
Before you head to your nearest dealer:
- Check your city’s FAME II status.
- Ask your dealership about state subsidies.
- Book a test ride and experience the future of commuting.
- Share this guide with others who might benefit from switching to electric.
The Honda Activa e may not be fully subsidized just yet, but with EV policies evolving quickly, it’s on its way to becoming a truly affordable, zero-petrol option for India’s future.
