Honda Elevate EV Launching in 2026: Get Ready for Surprises!
Exciting news for electric vehicle enthusiasts in India! Honda Cars India has officially announced that it will launch an Elevate-based electric vehicle (EV) in 2026. This marks a significant milestone as it will be Honda’s first full-electric model tailored for the Indian market, albeit under a different nameplate and design. Here’s everything you need to know about this upcoming launch and Honda’s electrification strategy.
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Honda Elevate EV Launch: A New Era for Honda in India
During the launch of the all-new Honda Amaze, Takuya Tsumura, President and CEO of Honda Cars India, confirmed the plans for the Elevate EV. This vehicle is part of a broader strategy to introduce three electrified models in India between 2026 and 2027. Tsumura stated, “We will be introducing three electrified models in 2026-27. One will be a battery-electric vehicle based on the Elevate, and there will be two more as well.” This commitment underscores Honda’s dedication to increasing the ratio of electrified vehicles in its lineup.
The ACE Project: Compact Electric Vehicle
Earlier this year, Honda revealed its ambitious project named ACE (Asian Compact Electric), which is based on the Elevate platform. The ACE is expected to be ready by 2026, with plans for 50-70% of the vehicles produced in India to be exported to key markets, including Japan. This initiative highlights Honda’s focus on not just the domestic market but also its global ambitions.
Competing in a Rapidly Evolving Market
As Honda gears up for its EV launch, it faces stiff competition from established players like Tata Motors, MG, and Mahindra, who have already made significant strides in the electric vehicle space. Additionally, brands like Hyundai, Maruti, and Toyota are set to enter the mid-size electric SUV market in 2025. Tsumura acknowledged this competitive landscape, emphasizing the need for Honda to accelerate its electrification efforts.
The Shift Towards EVs Over Hybrids
While Honda was a pioneer in introducing strong-hybrid powertrains in India with the City, the brand has recognized that the future lies in electric vehicles. With the implementation of CAFÉ 3 norms in 2027, Honda plans to prioritize EVs over strong hybrids. Tsumura noted, “That is why we decided to start with an EV based on the Elevate. But other future lines will have hybrid technology as well.” This strategic pivot reflects Honda’s commitment to adapting to changing market dynamics and consumer preferences.
Focus on SUVs: Honda’s Future Direction
Honda is shifting its focus towards the SUV segment, which has seen a surge in demand in India. Tsumura stated, “The market shift is more towards SUVs. That is why we decided to put more models on the SUV side. By 2030, we will have five models.” This move is crucial for Honda, especially as its market share has dipped below 1.5%, down from 2.4% in 2022-23, primarily due to declining sedan sales.
What’s Next for Honda?
While Honda has plans for product updates in the sedan segment, the primary emphasis will be on expanding its SUV lineup. Ryuto Shimizu, Director of Marketing, mentioned, “At the moment, we are making the Indian customers wait a little bit more. But from 2026-27, we will be able to give good news regarding models and new powertrains. It is just a matter of time.”
The upcoming Honda Elevate EV represents a significant step forward for Honda in the Indian electric vehicle market. With its commitment to electrification and a focus on SUVs, Honda is poised to regain its competitive edge. As we look forward to the launch in 2026, it’s clear that Honda is ready to embrace the future of mobility in India. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development!
