Honda Cars India has announced plans to debut its first all-electric vehicle for the Indian market in 2026. The new EV will be based on the recently launched Elevate SUV but will feature a unique design and nameplate. Speaking at the unveiling of the new Amaze, Honda Cars India President and CEO Takuya Tsumura shared the company’s roadmap for electrification.
Three Electrified Models by 2026-27
Honda is set to introduce three electrified vehicles in the 2026-27 period, including the Elevate-based EV. Tsumura confirmed that the lineup will comprise both hybrid and fully electric models, aligning with Honda’s global commitment to increasing its portfolio of electrified vehicles.
Among these models is the ACE (Asian Compact Electric) project, an EV developed on the Elevate’s platform. The ACE, which was exclusively reported earlier this year, is expected to be ready by 2026. Honda plans to export 50-70% of these vehicles to key markets, including Japan, underlining India’s growing importance in Honda’s global strategy.
Facing Stiff Competition
By the time Honda’s EV enters the market, competitors like Tata Motors, MG, Mahindra, Hyundai, Maruti, and Toyota will have made significant progress in their electrification journeys. Several rivals are set to launch mid-size electric SUVs by 2025, giving them an early advantage in this rapidly growing segment.
Focus on Hybrids and SUVs
Honda was the first mass-market automaker in India to introduce a strong hybrid powertrain with the City sedan. However, its hybrid offerings didn’t achieve the widespread adoption Honda had anticipated. Going forward, the brand sees EVs playing a more crucial role, especially with stricter Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ 3) norms coming into effect in 2027.
Despite this shift, Honda plans to continue leveraging hybrid technology in future models, which it believes remains highly relevant for India’s automotive landscape.
SUV-Centric Future
While Honda remains committed to sedans, its focus is shifting significantly towards SUVs to align with changing market preferences. According to Tsumura, Honda aims to launch five new SUVs in India by 2030, starting with the Elevate. However, the company acknowledges that its delayed entry into the SUV market has impacted its overall market share, which has fallen to under 1.5%, down from 2.4% in 2022-23.
Ryuto Shimizu, Honda India’s Director of Marketing, reassured customers that the company is gearing up to introduce new models and advanced powertrains by 2026-27. “While the wait has been longer than expected, exciting updates are on the horizon,” he said.
Honda’s upcoming EVs and hybrids mark a crucial step in revitalizing its position in the Indian market, especially as it seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable mobility.
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