Honda Elevate Hybrid Spotted Testing in Brazil: Future for India?

Recent spy images from Brazil suggest that Honda is developing a hybrid variant of the Elevate SUV, which was initially launched without a hybrid option. This new model is expected to share its powertrain with the City e:HEV and retain similar features and styling to its India-spec counterpart. Despite Honda’s previous focus on electric models, the hybrid version may cater to evolving market demands, particularly in India.

The Honda Elevate, a compact SUV aimed at the competitive C-segment market, was launched without a hybrid variant, which many industry observers considered a missed opportunity given its shared platform with the City, a model that offers a hybrid option. Recent spy images from Brazil suggest that Honda is now indeed working on a hybrid version of the Elevate, equipped with a hybrid powertrain involving a combustion engine. The latest spy photos show a heavily camouflaged test vehicle that appears similar to the Indian variant of the Elevate. Due to the extensive camouflage, it is challenging to identify any significant aesthetic modifications, aside from newly designed alloy wheels. The design features an easily recognizable flat front fascia with an all-black rectangular grille, sleek LED headlights, and a stubby rear tail light. It is anticipated that the interior of the Elevate hybrid will closely resemble that of its India-spec counterpart, featuring a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch multimedia system, automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector, as well as a wireless smartphone charger. Furthermore, safety provisions will include six airbags and Level 1 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), encapsulated in Honda Sensing technology, offering features such as automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, collision avoidance, and adaptive cruise control. In terms of powertrain, the Elevate hybrid is expected to inherit the same technology as found in the City e:HEV. It will utilize a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine in concert with two electric motors. The petrol engine generates 98 bhp and 126 Nm of torque independently, while the combined output from the electric motors will yield 108 bhp and 253 Nm of torque. The system is designed to harness energy from the engine to charge the battery, enabling the vehicle to operate in electric mode for limited durations, thanks to regenerative braking capabilities. Initially, Honda was resolute about not offering a strong hybrid variant of the Elevate in India, declaring that they would focus on creating a fully electric model of the Elevate, projected for a 2026 launch. However, given the current downturn in electric vehicle sales on a global scale, the introduction of a hybrid variant in the Indian market may not be such an unfavorable strategy after all. In summary, with the development of a hybrid variant of the Elevate being confirmed through recent spy images, it remains to be seen how Honda will balance its plans for electric and hybrid models in the evolving automotive landscape. The Elevate could potentially emerge as a viable option for consumers seeking eco-friendly vehicles.

The Honda Elevate, launched amidst a crowded compact SUV segment, did not initially feature a hybrid option, surprising many given its potential alignment with the City’s successful hybrid offering. The decision to avoid a hybrid variant led to speculations about Honda’s strategic direction, particularly as consumer demand trends towards greener alternatives. Spy images from Brazil have surfaced, indicating that Honda is actively developing a hybrid model, sparking renewed interest in the Elevate’s market prospects, particularly in relation to Indian consumer preferences and future electric vehicle strategies.

The Honda Elevate hybrid is gathering attention as spy images indicate its development. While the initial absence of a hybrid variant raised eyebrows, Honda’s focus on hybrid technology may align better with global market trends, particularly as the demand for electric vehicles fluctuates. Although Honda previously committed to an electric version of the Elevate by 2026, a hybrid model might provide a timely solution for consumers in the Indian automobile market.

Original Source: www.financialexpress.com