Key highlights
- Honda Automobiles India affirms that its first electric vehicle will be introduced in India between April 2026 and March 2027.
- Contrary to earlier rumours, the EV would not be based on the Elevate SUV.
- Honda intends to establish a charging network throughout major cities and roads and localise production.
Honda Cars India has officially confirmed that its first electric car for the Indian market will launch in FY2026–27. That means we could see the EV hit showrooms anytime between April 2026 and March 2027. After years of watching rivals like Tata, MG, and Hyundai gobble up market share, Honda is finally stepping into the EV ring.
Not an Elevate EV, so what is it?
Earlier reports suggested Honda might electrify the Elevate SUV. But that plan has changed. The upcoming EV will not be based on the Elevate platform. Instead, Honda is working on a fresh product that could be a sedan or a compact hatchback.
Why not an SUV? Because the electric SUV segment is already crowded. Honda might be eyeing a gap in the market—an affordable electric sedan to rival the Tata Tigor EV or a premium hatchback that undercuts the MG Comet.
There’s also talk of a project codenamed ACE (Asian Compact Electric), which could be the foundation for this new EV. If this pans out, HCI might end up exporting these vehicles to Japan and other Asian markets.
Plans for production and infrastructure
The EV will be produced by Honda at its Tapukara plant in Rajasthan, which can produce 1.8 lakh units a year. Additionally, the business intends to install a network of charging stations along well-traveled highways and in significant urban areas.
This indicates a sustained commitment rather than a one-time introduction. Honda aims to create an ecosystem rather than merely sell automobiles.
What to anticipate
Although specifications are currently unknown, the following is what we might reasonably anticipate:
- 300–400 km is the range.
- Cost: about INR 12 to 18 lakh
- Body type: hatchback or compact sedan
- Support for fast charging and a home charger are offered.
- Technology: Honda Sensing suite, linked automobile functions, and a simple, clean interior
We could also see two more new products from Honda in the form of EVs or plug-in hybrids.
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