Honda Power Pack Energy India Private Limited (HEID) has announced the launch of its battery swapping service for the newly introduced Honda Activa e. This move aligns with Honda’s ambitious global carbon neutrality goals, positioning the company to make strides in reducing the environmental footprint of personal transportation.
HEID’s battery swap service is set to offer seamless, quick, and efficient solutions for EV users, especially as range anxiety remains a major concern among consumers. With the Activa e being one of the most anticipated electric two-wheelers in India, this partnership promises to enhance the overall user experience by providing easy access to fully charged batteries at numerous strategic locations. Users can register for the service through HEID’s mobile app when they purchase the Activa e, facilitating an effortless entry into the EV ecosystem. As part of its growth plan, HEID will begin its battery swap service for two-wheelers in Delhi NCR and Mumbai starting April 2025. By March 2026, the company aims to expand its network significantly, setting up 500 battery swap stations across key cities—250 in Bangalore, 150 in Delhi, and 100 in Mumbai. This expansion marks a critical step in improving infrastructure for EVs, addressing the current limitations of conventional charging stations that often present delays and inefficiencies for users.
This move follows HEID’s initial foray into the battery swapping business, which began in November 2021 with services for electric auto rickshaws. By allowing users to swap discharged batteries with fully charged ones, HEID not only reduces the upfront cost of purchasing EVs but also alleviates the issue of long charging times, making EVs a more attractive option for the Indian market. Notably, HEID owns the batteries, which reduces the cost burden on consumers, making the transition to EVs more affordable and accessible. To support its growth, HEID secured ₹2.2 billion in funding in August 2024, further solidifying its capacity to expand rapidly and meet the increasing demand for EV infrastructure in India. The company has already partnered with major entities like Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), and Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited to establish its battery exchange stations at high-traffic locations.
Takuya Taniguchi, President & CMD of Honda Power Pack Energy India, emphasised the company’s focus on three key areas for expansion: a continuous increase in battery swap stations, reliable service backed by a robust system for monitoring battery health, and superior customer support to ensure a smooth and efficient experience. By making these services available at more locations, HEID is set to contribute significantly towards India’s push for carbon neutrality, all while providing a cleaner, more sustainable transport solution. As the Indian government and consumers shift towards greener alternatives, HEID’s battery swapping services are poised to play a pivotal role in India’s EV revolution, making clean energy transportation more accessible and practical for everyday commuters.