Honda opposes NITI proposal on e-vehicles\, says adoption a major challenge

Honda opposes NITI proposal on e-vehicles, says adoption a major challenge

Earlier major Indian automakers Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor Co opposed the NITI proposal

Press Trust of India  |  New Delhi 

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India

Japanese automobile major on Tuesday said the two-wheeler industry in needs more time to stabilise after BS-VI changeover before moving to full (EVs).

Joining its Indian counterparts Hero MotoCorp, in opposing the Niti Aayog's proposal to completely ban two-wheelers that are powered by internal combustion engines (ICEs) of up to 150cc from 2025, the company called for a plan jointly prepared by all concerned stakeholders before taking such a step.

Honda, which is present in the country through a wholly-owned subsidiary Motorcycle and Scooter (HMSI), said despite its 25 years of experience of developing and selling electric two-wheeler adoption of such vehicles has remaind a challenge due to various factors.

"The industry needs more time to stabilise after BS-VI changeover before we take the next step of moving from IC engine technology, especially considering Indian customer requirement of higher daily commuting distance and price consciousness," HMSI said in a statement.

From April 2020, will implement strict BS-VI emission norms across the country for all categories of new vehicles.

The company further said, "requests a well-laid-out plan jointly prepared by government, industry and all concerned stakeholders looking at the aspects of air pollution, energy security, cost of technology, availability of raw materials and Infrastructure while addressing employment impact to increase stepwise penetration of EVs (electric vehicles)."

Globally, Honda has an experience of developing and selling electric two-wheelers for over 25 years.

"Due to multiple factors, including vehicle cost, riding performance, range and infrastructure, customers' adoption of EV is still a major challenge," it said.

On Monday, India's big three two-wheeler makers -- Hero MotoCorp, -- hit out at the Niti Aayog's plan to push for 100 per cent for up to 150 cc engine capacity, saying such a transition was completely uncalled for and could jeopardise the industry.

First Published: Tue, June 25 2019. 18:40 IST