EV Effect: Your Diesel Honda Car Could Soon Be A Collector's Item

• Honda plans to electrify its entire product line by 2022.
• Next EV from Honda slated for a 2022 debut.
• The lineup rejig will include hybrids and electric vehicles with hydrogen tech on hold.
• Honda plans to axe its diesel lineup by 2021.
• The carmaker is considering the Honda E with regards to the Indian government’s push for EVs

While Honda Motor has been one of the late bloomers in going all-electric, it is starting to make up with the unveiling of the Honda E electric hatchback at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. Quickly coming on the back of that, Honda is already preparing its next electric vehicle (EV). There is no word on the upcoming EV other than the fact that it is slated for a 2022 debut. And now, reports suggest that Honda is looking to phase out diesels as well as put hydrogen powertrain technology on hold. 

During Honda’s ‘Electric Vision’ event in Amsterdam in October, the carmaker revealed its plans to have electrified versions of its entire mainstream lineup by 2022. This includes some all-electric vehicles. The first phase of its EV focus will be in Europe where the demand for electric cars is steadily increasing. As for hydrogen tech, the carmaker has revealed it is on hold with the focus shifting to electrics and hybrids. 

Going back to the Honda E, the carmaker will start selling the hatchback in international markets from early next year. Starting prices are quoted at GBP 26,160 for the 136PS e and GBP 18,660 for the e Advance. This is equivalent to Rs 24 lakh and Rs 26.28 lakh respectively. This is quite a high price tag as it would not only compete with the Hyundai Kona electric SUV and the upcoming MG ZS EV, but also with other long-range electric hatchbacks such as the upcoming Tata Altroz EV.

While this is a good first step for Honda, it is more of a waiting game as to when Honda will pull the plug on the diesel engine in India, after the planned 2021 phase out in international markets. What we do know is that a BS6-compliant City is in the works in India. The next-gen City is almost ready for its official debut in Thailand, with an India debut later in 2020 along with its next iteration. As for the Honda E’s fate for India, since the Indian government incentivises only electric vehicles there is a good chance of it arriving here.

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