The Indian car market is set for big launches and launches in the electric two-wheeler (e2W) segment in 2025.
Major manufacturers like Honda, TVS, Illustrious Enfield, Saint Motocorp and KTM are set to launch models including both electric bikes and premium motorcycles.
Honda is expected to launch the Activa e: and QC1 electric scooters in January 2025.
The vehicle is expected to be priced between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 1.3 lakh (ex-showroom) and will be available in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
Although Honda has not revealed its price and bookings, it is learned that the Activa electric bike will be launched at the India Portability Worldwide Expo 2025 in January.
The penetration of electric vehicles in this segment is higher (around 15 percent) than that of normal two-wheelers (5-6 percent).
In states like Rajasthan, the bike jolt rate is more than 40 percent.
ICRA Senior Vice President Srikumar Krishnamurthy said the upcoming launches are balanced to add to the momentum of this jump.
However, he recognised the challenges in the electric bike segment. “Adoption is limited due to performance and affordable pricing concerns. Winning in this category will depend on introducing models that match the traditional bike rider in terms of robustness, performance and value,” he said.
Data from the Society of Indian Car Producers (SIAM) shows that total two-wheeler sales (which includes bikes, bikes and mopeds) will be 15.86 million units from January to November 2023. This figure rises to 18.43 million units in 2024, indicating growth in the two-wheeler market.
Meanwhile, data from the Society of Producers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) shows that electric two-wheeler sales totalled 857,369 units in 2023. In 2024, they will reach 891,738 units, reflecting a steady increase in their usage.
Royal Enfield is set to make waves with the Scram 440 and Classic 650, both of which are launching in January.
The Scram 440, which is built on the Himalayan 411 stage, boasts of a bigger motor for better performance.
The Classic 650 will combine the charm of the Classic 350 with the 648 cc motor of the Shotgun 650, making 46.3 bhp and 52.3 Nm of torque.
Besides this, the Bullet 650 twin that shares the powertrain with the Classic 650 also gets minor improvements, while the Himalayan 450 Rally Edition is set to bring utility and visual upgrades. Hero MotoCorp will also introduce the XPulse 210, which is expected to be powered by a 210 cc liquid-cooled motor that produces 24.8 PS and 20.7 Nm of torque. With adventure-ready highlights like a tall windscreen and long-travel suspension, the XPulse 210 can be compared to the Karizma XMR. Hero will also launch its Xtreme 250R and Karizma 250R, alongside the energetic Xoom 125R bike, which is expected to be priced between Rs 80,000 and Rs 90,000 (ex-showroom). KTM’s new-generation 390 Experience series, which also includes the 390 Enduro R, will be showcased in early 2025. Priced between Rs 3.3 lakh and Rs 3.8 lakh (ex-showroom), these models are aimed at off-road enthusiasts.
TVS will launch an upgraded version of the Ronin, featuring dual-channel ABS and new colour options.
Meanwhile, Suzuki plans to launch the next-generation Get to 125, which will bring updates to the existing scooter.
Experts believe that key upcoming launches such as Honda’s Activa e: and Hero’s XPulse 210 could drive this segment further. However, electric bikes are facing challenges in distribution due to performance and affordable pricing concerns.
Analysts believe that Royal Enfield, Harley-Davidson and other brands could accelerate electric bike launches in the coming years.
According to Kawan Mukhtar, partner and leader – car consulting at PwC, the premium bicycle segment is expected to see strong growth in 2025, driven by advancements in networks and safety features. Mukhtar said, “The premium bicycle showcase is clearly on the rise, and I expect vigorous growth in this sector. In 2025, we will also see the presentation of related highlights and advanced safety capabilities, especially in premium models.” He highlighted that with some high-quality electric bikes and bicycles entering the sector, shock assistance is set to accelerate. Mukhtar added, “The electric cruiser segment, which has been almost non-existent in the last few years, will start seeing some significant action from 2025. Established brands are expected to step into this space with promising launches.” India’s two-wheeler market is poised to emerge widely, with researchers expecting a surge in the zap during 2025. It will be supported by government incentives, inventive launches, and growing consumer interest.
Government motivations, such as the PM eDrive scheme, are important for drivers
