Honda to introduce flex-fuel motorcycles and new electric two-wheelers in India

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is preparing to expand its product range in India. The company will introduce flex-fuel motorcycles and new electric two-wheelers as part of its growth strategy. HMSI aims to use Honda’s global expertise in alternative fuel technologies while strengthening its electric mobility lineup.

Key Highlights

• Honda to introduce flex-fuel motorcycles and new electric two-wheelers in India.
• All current Honda BS6 two-wheelers are compatible with E20 petrol.
• Honda reported 5.75 million two-wheeler sales in FY26 with 8 percent year-on-year growth.
• Hero MotoCorp remains the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India.

Flex-Fuel Motorcycle Development

HMSI President and CEO Tsutsumu Otani stated that Honda is working on flex-fuel motorcycles for India. The company is drawing on experience from markets like Brazil, where high-ethanol fuel vehicles have been available for years. However, Otani did not specify a launch timeline for these products.

Currently, all of Honda’s BS6-compliant two-wheelers in India are compatible with E20 petrol. The company plans to launch flex-fuel models once India’s fuel infrastructure for higher ethanol blends becomes more widespread. This move aligns with a broader industry trend as manufacturers expand alternative fuel offerings in India.

​Hero MotoCorp recently launched flex-fuel versions of the Splendor+ and HF Deluxe. Suzuki already offers the Gixxer SF250 Flex Fuel, which can run on ethanol blends up to E85.

Expansion of Electric Two-Wheelers

Honda is also focusing on its electric vehicle portfolio. The company entered India’s electric scooter market with the Activa e and QC1 models. However, these models have recorded lower sales compared to competitors.

Rival manufacturers such as TVS Motor, Bajaj Auto, Ather Energy, and Hero MotoCorp’s VIDA brand have established a stronger presence in the electric scooter segment. HMSI says additional electric two-wheelers are under development to improve its position in the growing EV market.

Market Trends and Sales Performance

Honda has observed changing demand patterns across India. Scooters continue to dominate sales in urban areas of western and southern India. In contrast, commuter motorcycles remain the preferred choice in northern and eastern regions.

Honda believes that rising rural incomes are gradually increasing demand for scooters outside traditional urban markets. The company reported sales of 5.75 million two-wheelers in FY26, marking an 8 percent year-on-year increase.

Hero MotoCorp remained India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer during the financial year. However, Honda briefly led monthly industry sales on several occasions.

Otani stated that Honda’s main focus is on long-term growth. The company will achieve this through product expansion, supply chain efficiency, and strengthening its brand portfolio beyond high-volume models such as the Activa and Shine.

Also Read: 2026 Honda CB650R launched in Malaysia with new color options

CarBike 360 Says

Honda’s move towards flex-fuel motorcycles and electric two-wheelers highlights its commitment to a cleaner and more adaptable mobility future in India. By combining alternative fuel technology with electrification, the brand is positioning itself to meet stricter emission norms and evolving consumer demands, setting the stage for a more sustainable and innovation-driven two-wheeler market.