New Delhi: Honda is set to enter the two-wheeler electric vehicle (EV) sector in India with the Honda Shine Electric, an offering that is set to utilize the Shine name that has made its mark in the two wheeler industry. Honda is advertising a range of its flagship electric motorcycle to be 230 kilometers of range on a single charge which, if true, would make it one of the most useful electric motorbikes in the commuter sector.
A Familiar Name, A Bold Beginning
The Shine has been one of Honda’s most reliable workhorses in the petrol powered two wheeler category for over a decade, especially with office goers and daily riders. With the transition to electric, Honda has made the decision of retaining the Shine badge and is betting that its reputation would make the adoption of EV’s seamless for its customers.
Range That Could Redefine Daily Commuting
While most e scooters and bikes currently offered in the market provide a range of 100 to 150 kilometers of range per charge, Honda’s claimed figure of 230 kilometers has the potential to set a new standard in the commuter friendly EV segment. If the claim holds true in real world riding conditions, urban commuters would be able to go nearly an entire week without needing to charge the bike which is an enticing prospect in a country with limited charging infrastructure.
Powertrain and Battery Details
While the electric motorcycle has not been detailed with proper specifications, the current word going around suggests that the Honda Shine Electric would feature a high density lithium ion battery pack coupled with a powerful electric motor built for optimized efficiency and dependable output. The anticipated fast-charging feature would especially benefit busy commuters when compared to conventional overnight charging.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Honda Shine Electric |
| Battery Capacity | 3.5 kWh Lithium-ion |
| Range (per full charge) | Up to 230 km (approximate) |
| Motor Power | Around 4.4 kW |
| Transmission | Automatic (Gearless) |
| Top Speed | Approximately 70-80 km/h |
| Charging Time | 4-6 hours (standard charging) |
| Instrument Console | Digital |
| Seat Type | Single |
| Price (approximate) | ₹1.30 Lakh (Indian Rupees) |
| Body Type | Electric Scooter |
| Additional Features | Comfortable ride, practical design |
Aimed at the Mass Market
Unlike the niche premium segment of electric bikes, the Shine Electric is expected to be focused on the mass market and is intended specifically for office commuters and families—precisely the market that popularized its petrol counterpart. Competitiveness on cost will be vital, considering that other players such as Hero, Bajaj, and Ola Electric have already entered the market and are competing aggressively on price.
The Impact on the EV Ecosystem
This might be reassuring for gun-shy riders considering Honda’s entry into the commuter EV bike segment. The transition from petrol to electric in the country seems to be gaining real traction now that one of the largest two-wheeler manufacturers in the world is investing in electric mobility in India.
