Recent spy images from Brazil have confirmed that Honda is developing a hybrid version of the Elevate SUV, which may enter the Indian market. Expected features include a 1.5-liter petrol engine paired with electric motors, a familiar interior design, and advanced safety systems. While Honda had previously indicated no plans for a hybrid variant in India, market trends may necessitate a change in strategy.
The Honda Elevate, which was unveiled last year, has become a prominent contender in the crowded C-segment SUV market. Curiously, Honda had not introduced a strong hybrid variant of this model, despite it sharing its platform with the City, which does offer a hybrid powertrain. This decision was met with widespread speculation that it represented a missed opportunity on Honda’s part. However, recent spy photographs from Brazil have surfaced, indicating that Honda is indeed working on a greener iteration of the Elevate that features a combustion engine. These images reveal a fully camouflaged test unit of the Elevate, which closely resembles the variant designated for India. Due to the extensive camouflage, it is challenging to discern any subtle aesthetic modifications aside from newly designed alloy wheels. The vehicle retains its recognizable attributes, such as a flat front with an all-black rectangular grille, sleek LED headlights, and compact tail lights, ensuring that it is easily identifiable. Expectations for the interior of the Elevate hybrid remain aligned with its India-based counterpart. Anticipated features include a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch multimedia center, automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector, as well as a wireless smartphone charger. With regards to safety provisions, the vehicle is expected to include six airbags and Level 1 ADAS features as part of Honda Sensing, which encompasses automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assistance, collision avoidance, and adaptive cruise control, among other features. The Elevate hybrid’s powertrain is set to mirror that of the City e:HEV. It will utilize a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated Carnot cycle petrol engine in conjunction with two electric motors. The petrol engine alone delivers 98 bhp and 126 Nm of torque, while the two electric motors provide a combined output of 108 bhp and 253 Nm of torque. The engine powers the battery, which, in turn, drives the electric motors. One of the electric motors functions as a traction motor for the front wheels, while the other serves as a generator. This system allows for battery recharging through regenerative braking, permitting the vehicle to operate in electric-only mode for brief durations. Initially, Honda asserted that it did not intend to introduce a strong hybrid version of the Elevate in India. Instead, the company aimed to develop a fully electric version of the vehicle, expected to debut by 2026. However, given the current global downturn in electric vehicle sales, it may prove beneficial for Honda to consider the introduction of a hybrid variant of the Elevate in the Indian market.
The compact SUV segment, particularly the C-segment, has witnessed intense competition since the launch of Honda Elevate. Notably, the absence of a strong hybrid version during its initial release raised eyebrows, especially given that Honda’s City model, which shares the same foundation, includes a hybrid option. Honda’s strategy often involves keeping product developments discreet, which heightens interest in their forthcoming models and potential market strategies. With emerging reports of a hybrid Elevate under development, the company appears to be revisiting its initial decision regarding hybrid technology. This shift may also reflect broader market trends and consumer demand for more sustainable vehicle options.
In summary, the development of a hybrid version of the Honda Elevate signifies a possible strategic pivot by Honda, amidst growing global interest in hybrid technology. The hybrid will likely share many features with its India-specific model while utilizing a powertrain configuration similar to that of the City e:HEV. While Honda initially opted not to pursue a strong hybrid variant for the Indian market, the evolving automotive landscape could prompt a reconsideration, particularly given the anticipated market for greener vehicles in the region.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
