Honda Elevate Hybrid Under Development: A Potential Introduction for India?
Honda is reportedly developing a hybrid version of the Elevate SUV, following prior criticism regarding the lack of such an option upon its launch. Spy images from Brazil reveal a test model resembling the India-spec version. The hybrid will likely utilize the same powertrain as the City e:HEV while adopting a similar interior and safety features. Despite Honda’s previous statements about not introducing a hybrid variant in India, changing market conditions may lead to a reconsideration.
The Honda Elevate, a compact C-segment SUV, appeared to lack a hybrid version upon its launch last year despite the fact that it shares its platform with the City, a model that offers a strong hybrid option. This absence was initially viewed as a missed opportunity by many enthusiasts and automotive experts alike. However, recent spy photographs from Brazil suggest that Honda is indeed working on a hybrid variant of the Elevate. The most recent spy images showcase a fully camouflaged test model of the Elevate, which visually resembles the version available in India. The camouflage restricts visibility of any substantial exterior modifications, with the exception of newly designed alloy wheels. The vehicle’s distinctive front facade—featuring an all-black rectangular grille and sleek LED headlights—remains a hallmark of Honda’s design. Anticipated interior features for the Elevate hybrid are expected to mirror those of its Indian counterpart, including a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch multimedia center, automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a gear selector knob, and a wireless smartphone charging system. In terms of safety, the hybrid variant will likely be equipped with six airbags and Level 1 Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) as part of the Honda Sensing suite, which encompasses automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. On the powertrain front, the Elevate hybrid is predicted to utilize the same system found in the City e:HEV, which integrates a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine with two electric motors. The petrol engine alone delivers 98 bhp and 126 Nm of torque, while the electric motors together produce 108 bhp and 253 Nm of torque. The system facilitates battery charging via regenerative braking, enhancing efficiency and providing a limited electric-only driving capability. Regarding its potential launch in India, Honda has previously stated that it would not offer a strong hybrid variant of the Elevate, opting instead to focus on developing a fully electric version expected to release by the year 2026. Nevertheless, with the current downturn in global electric vehicle sales, it may be strategically advantageous for Honda to consider introducing a hybrid Elevate in the Indian market.
The Honda Elevate was launched in the competitive C-segment SUV market last year, but it notably lacked a hybrid option, which surprised many industry observers, considering its shared platform with the City model. Given the increasing global shift towards eco-friendly vehicles, the omission of a hybrid variant was thought to have resulted in Honda forgoing a significant opportunity. As the automotive landscape evolves, especially in light of the slowing electric vehicle market, the emergence of hybrid technologies has gained renewed interest from consumers and manufacturers alike. Recent developments indicate that Honda is now exploring a hybrid iteration of the Elevate, signaling a potential shift in strategy amidst changing market conditions.
In conclusion, the emergence of spy images suggesting the development of a Honda Elevate hybrid reinforces the growing importance of hybrid technology in the automotive industry as consumers seek more sustainable vehicle options. Although Honda initially ruled out a hybrid version during the Elevate’s launch in India, the current market dynamics may compel the company to reconsider its stance. With a well-rounded feature set and a powertrain closely aligned with its successful City e:HEV model, the Elevate hybrid could satisfy consumer demand while positioning Honda favorably in the increasingly competitive SUV marketplace.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
