Honda Inaugurates New R&D Facility in Bengaluru for Electric Two-Wheeler Development

News Highlights

• The company recently opened a new engine assembly line for ICE models at the Manesar facility.
• The new facility will aid Honda Motor Company in advancing the development of electric vehicles.

Honda R&D (India) Private Limited (HRID), a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., has recently opened a new Research & Development (R&D) plant in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The Honda R&D centre works as the brand’s research and development arm for power products and motorcycles in India. The new facility will aid Honda Motor Company in advancing the development of electric vehicles. This move aligns with the company’s global target of attaining carbon neutrality by the year 2050. Honda is planning to unveil mass market EVs in domestic and international markets.

The two-wheeler giant previously disclosed its plans to launch two new electric scooters in the Indian market in 2024. Honda is also working on an electric bike that will be unveiled in India in the coming time. Both of these upcoming Honda models will be assembled locally and could also feature swappable batteries. Recently, the company inaugurated its latest engine assembly line for ICE models at the Manesar facility. The new assembly line will be utilized for export purposes.

Read more: Ola Electric Commences Deliveries of S1 X Electric Scooter

According to the company, the new Solution R&D Centre will produce electrified vehicles by utilizing advanced mobility technologies. The center will also explore connected services and software solutions, putting a focus on innovation by working with regional digital entrepreneurs and organizations. This program is a part of the brand’s vision to solve environmental issues and support sustainable development.

Hona aims to team up with other companies to develop new ideas and services. In fact, the geographical location of the new plant allows Honda to forge partnerships with other automotive players in India. Bengaluru has now become the centre for EV players. Several electric two-wheeler players, including Ola Electric, Ather Energy, TVS, Oben, Orxa Energies, and Ultraviolette, have set up their facilities at the same location. The company will also work to solve social issues like clean energy, resource circulation, and carbon neutrality under Honda’s ‘Triple Action to Zero 2’ initiative.