Honda India is gearing up for an electrifying future, and at the forefront of this transformation is an all-new locally-made electric SUV. Based on the platform of the Honda Elevate, this yet-to-be-named EV will serve as Honda’s flagship entry into the burgeoning electric SUV market in India. With a launch window between 2026 and 2027, this EV is poised to compete fiercely in a rapidly evolving segment.
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India First
In a strategic move, India will be the first market to receive this electric SUV before it sees global deployment. This reflects Honda’s commitment to high levels of localization, which is expected to ensure competitive pricing and tailored features for Indian customers.
Taking on Rivals
Honda’s upcoming EV SUV is set to challenge a formidable lineup of competitors, including:
| Rivals | Notable Features |
|---|---|
| Maruti e Vitara | Affordable pricing and compact design |
| Hyundai Creta EV | Tech-loaded with a proven platform |
| Kia Carens EV | Spacious interiors and family-friendly appeal |
| Next-Gen MG ZS EV | Improved range and premium features |
| Tata Curvv EV | Bold design and local production advantage |
| Mahindra BE 6 | Innovative styling with EV-focused tech |
| Toyota Urban SUV | Practicality with Toyota’s hybrid expertise |
Expected to fall within the ₹20 lakh to ₹26 lakh price range, this segment is rapidly gaining traction as automakers focus on the sweet spot for premium yet accessible electric SUVs.
Strategic Caution
Honda is playing it safe by holding off until there is greater clarity on:
- CAFE 3 Norms: Compliance with India’s stricter Corporate Average Fuel Economy regulations.
- Taxation Policies: Addressing the Central Government’s stance on taxation for BEVs and hybrids.
This cautious approach enables Honda to refine its strategy and ensure that its electric SUV is well-positioned against rivals when it launches.
Predicted Specifications
While Honda has kept details under wraps, here’s what we can anticipate for the Elevate-based EV:
- Range: An impressive 500-600km on a single charge.
- Battery Pack: Likely a 60+kWh unit, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
- Features: Borrowing from the Elevate’s premium offerings and enhanced by future upgrades, including:
- Level-2 ADAS for advanced driver assistance.
- Connected Car Technology for seamless integration with smart devices.
- Panoramic Sunroof to enhance the cabin experience.
- Powered Front Seats and Rear AC Vents for ultimate comfort.
- Digital Screens for infotainment and instrumentation.
Elevate vs. EV
Unlike the regular Honda Elevate, which skips HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) technology, this new electric SUV will be a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). This positioning allows Honda to cater to the premium EV market while avoiding overlap with its ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) lineup.
FAQs
When will the Elevate-based EV launch?
It is expected to launch between 2026 and 2027.
What is the expected range of the EV?
The EV is likely to offer a range of 500-600km per charge.
How does Honda’s EV differ from the Elevate?
The EV is a BEV, while the Elevate skips hybrid technology.
What is the expected price range of Honda’s EV?
The price is estimated to be between ₹20 lakh and ₹26 lakh.
Which features will the EV have?
It will include Level-2 ADAS, connected tech, and a panoramic sunroof.
