Honda Electric SUV To Rival Mahindra BE 6E - Arriving Soon

Honda Cars India is targeting to launch its first all-electric SUV in 2026. The new EV will be a body shell of the Elevate but will have a new name and design. This will be Honda's foray into the Indian Electric Vehicle market which would significantly change the company's strategies.

Three Electrified Models by 2027

Honda Cars India President and CEO Takuya Tsumura confirmed three electrified models that will go on sale between 2026 and 2027. One of which will be the first-ever fully electric vehicle under the Elevate platform. There will also be two additional hybrid or electric models. To this end, the company is looking to increase the proportion of electrified models within its product portfolio to meet its target global sustainability targets.

ACE Project and Export Plans

Elevate-based EV is a part of the ACE (Asian Compact Electric) project under Honda. The company plans to manufacture this vehicle primarily for the Indian market. It is estimated with a share of around 50-70% in the export markets to various countries. It includes Japan, as well. Honda ACE project, thus, suggests that the company is indeed serious about using India as its electric vehicle production hub.

The Competition is Heating Up

The new electric SUV of Honda will see healthy competition in the Indian electric vehicle market by 2026. As already brands like Tata Motors, MG, and Mahindra have made successful entries. Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki will join this contest with mid-size electric vehicles by 2025. And for better competition, Honda needs its new electric SUV on the featured list of its range, and on pricing too.

Mahindra BE 6E - The Benchmark

Mahindra's BE 6E is one of the most significant rivals in the segment. It comes with two battery options: 59 kWh and 79 kWh, and the range is up to 682 km. The BE 6E has advanced features such as 175 kW fast charging, a dual-screen display, an extended reality-based heads-up display, and Level 2 ADAS. Starting at Rs. 18.90 lakh (ex-showroom), it sets a high standard for rivals that will arrive later.

Critical launch for Honda

Honda's electric SUV, which will be launched in 2026. It is a big step for the company in its electrification journey. The established brands and new models like the Mahindra BE 6E will make things tough for Honda's EV. It needs to be better in terms of performance, features, and value to stand out in the competitive Indian EV market.

Source: Autocar

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