Honda Confirms All-New Electric SUV For India - And It Won’t Be Based On The Elevate
Honda is preparing to roll out an all-new electric SUV in India in the next fiscal year. But unlike earlier speculation, this upcoming EV will not be a battery-powered version of the Honda Elevate. Instead, it will be a completely new, ground-up model designed specifically for the Indian market, likely positioned in the competitive mid-size SUV space.
No Elevate Reboot. Something Entirely New
Honda’s earlier plans hinted at electrifying the Elevate platform, which would have helped speed up development and reduce costs. However, the company has now scrapped that approach. Instead, the electric SUV will use an entirely new architecture.
This decision allows Honda to break away from the design and technical limitations of an ICE-to-EV conversion and build something better optimised for battery packaging, cabin space, and range expectations of Indian EV buyers.
It’s a notable pivot in strategy, signalling that Honda wants to be taken seriously in the growing Indian EV market - not just repurpose existing models with electric bits.
What Will It Compete With?
The new Honda EV SUV is expected to rival the likes of the Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta EV, MG ZS EV, and the Maruti Suzuki eVX. All of these models are either already on sale or set to launch within the next 12 to 18 months in India, indicating that the mid-size SUV segment is fast becoming the next big EV battleground.
This also hints that Honda’s new SUV could measure around 4.2 to 4.3 metres in length, with a five-seater layout and an emphasis on practicality. It is likely to be positioned in the ₹18 to ₹25 lakh price range, where most of its competitors are expected to land.
What to Expect in Terms of Features and Range
Although detailed specifications haven’t been released yet, Honda will likely offer a driving range of 400–500 kilometres on a single charge, considering the expectations in this price band. The SUV will be loaded with modern creature comforts like a large infotainment system, advanced driver assistance features, and connected tech to keep up with rivals.
Unlike the Honda City e:HEV, which remains the brand’s only electrified offering in India right now, this new SUV will be fully electric and tailored to Indian driving and charging conditions. Given that Honda has lagged behind other mainstream brands in India’s EV race, this product could become its make-or-break moment.
Honda’s EV Bet for India
This upcoming model is part of Honda’s broader strategy to regain momentum in India. While its monthly sales have been steady, 4,871 vehicles sold in April 2025, including 3,360 units domestically, it lacks an EV portfolio. The new SUV will be its first serious entry into a market that’s shifting quickly towards cleaner mobility.
The company’s leadership believes India is now one of its top three strategic markets, alongside the US and Japan. That gives further weight to this new EV project, which is likely receiving high priority internally.
If Honda can execute well on styling, range, features, and pricing, this EV could finally help the brand reclaim some lost ground in India’s highly competitive SUV space. But in a market where Tata, Mahindra, and even Maruti are aggressively pursuing EV launches, there’s little room for error. Honda’s all-new SUV will have to be more than just electric, it will have to be compelling.