Users of the Activa e: can access HEID's battery swap stations by registering on a mobile app upon purchase of the scooter. This app-based system streamlines the battery swapping process.Honda Power Pack Energy India (HEID), a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., will launch its battery swapping service for Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India's (HMSI) new Activa e: scooter. The service will begin in Bengaluru in February 2025, followed by New Delhi and Mumbai in April 2025. HEID aims to establish a vast battery swapping network, offering a convenient and cost-effective solution for electric vehicle users. This initiative supports Honda's global carbon neutrality goals.
HMSI launched the Activa e: on November 27, 2024. The event celebrated the partnership between HMSI and HEID, highlighting the battery swapping service as a key selling point. This service aligns with Honda's broader vision for a sustainable future.
HEID battery swapping services
Users of the Activa e: can access HEID's battery swap stations by registering on a mobile app upon purchase of the scooter. This app-based system streamlines the battery swapping process.
The expansion into Delhi and Mumbai in April 2025 will broaden HEID's reach across major Indian cities. This wider availability will make battery swapping more accessible to a larger customer base.
HEID expansion plans
HEID plans to have 250 battery swapping stations in Bengaluru, 150 in Delhi, and 100 in Mumbai by March 2026. This network expansion demonstrates a commitment to meeting the anticipated growth in demand for battery swapping services.
HEID was established in November 2021 to initiate battery swapping services in India, starting with electric auto-rickshaws. This experience with auto-rickshaws provided a foundation for expanding into the two-wheeler market.
The battery swapping service allows users to exchange depleted batteries (Honda Mobile Power Pack e:) for fully charged ones at designated stations. This eliminates the need for long charging times.
A sustainable solution
This service also reduces the initial cost of purchasing an electric vehicle because HEID owns the batteries. This ownership model lowers the barrier to entry for electric vehicle adoption.
The service also alleviates range anxiety, a common concern for electric vehicle users. Ready access to fully charged batteries ensures uninterrupted travel.
Partnerships
HEID has partnered with various organizations to strategically locate its battery exchangers (Honda Power Pack Exchanger e:). These partners include Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Limited (DMRC), Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited, and HMSI dealerships. These partnerships facilitate wider access to the battery swapping network.
These stations cater to both two-wheelers and electric auto-rickshaws that utilise the Honda Mobile Power Pack e:. This shared battery platform promotes efficiency and standardisation.
HEID targets
HEID aims to create the largest battery swap network in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai. This ambitious goal reflects a commitment to leading the battery swapping market in India.
The company emphasises providing high-quality service, reflecting Honda's reputation for reliability. This focus on quality aims to build customer trust and satisfaction.
HEID utilises advanced technology in its Honda Power Pack Exchanger e: to ensure smooth and hassle-free battery swaps. This technology-driven approach prioritises user convenience.
The Honda Mobile Power Pack e: is designed with robust safety features. The exchangers monitor and cool the batteries to maintain optimal conditions, further enhancing safety. This comprehensive approach to safety addresses potential concerns about battery performance and longevity.
HEID employs a cloud-based system, Honda Power Pack Cloud, to monitor all batteries and exchangers. This real-time monitoring ensures efficient network operation and proactive maintenance.
In August 2024, HEID secured funding of 2.2 billion Indian Rupees to support its expansion plans. This investment underscores the company's commitment to growth and market leadership.
“HEID would focus on three actions, which are continuously expanding its battery swap network, ensuring the reliable service with a highly integrated system monitoring every unique battery and exchanger, and supporting customers to ensure superior battery swap experience. HEID contributes toward the realisation of carbon neutrality and greener future of India by pursuing the penetration of battery swap solution,” stated Takuya Taniguchi, President & CMD of Honda Power Pack Energy India.
