Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is preparing to expand its product portfolio with flex-fuel motorcycles and new electric two-wheelers as part of its strategy to drive future growth in the Indian market. The company says it intends to leverage Honda’s global expertise in alternative fuel technologies while continuing to strengthen its electric mobility lineup.
HMSI President and CEO Tsutsumu Otani said Honda is working on introducing flex-fuel motorcycles for India by drawing on the experience it has gained in markets such as Brazil, where high-ethanol fuel vehicles have been available for several years. However, he did not confirm a launch timeline for these products.
According to Otani, all of Honda’s current BS6-compliant two-wheelers are compatible with E20 petrol. The company plans to introduce flex-fuel models once India’s supporting fuel infrastructure for higher ethanol blends becomes more widespread.
Honda’s announcement comes as several manufacturers expand their alternative fuel offerings in India. Hero MotoCorp recently introduced flex-fuel versions of the Splendor+ and HF Deluxe, while Suzuki already retails the Gixxer SF250 Flex Fuel, capable of operating on ethanol blends of up to E85.
Alongside its alternative fuel strategy, Honda is also preparing to expand its electric vehicle portfolio. The company entered India’s electric scooter market with the Activa e: and QC1, but both models have recorded significantly lower sales than key rivals. Competing products from manufacturers including TVS Motor, Bajaj Auto, Ather Energy and Hero MotoCorp’s VIDA brand have established a stronger presence in the segment. HMSI says additional electric two-wheelers are under development to improve its competitiveness in the growing EV market.
The company also highlighted changing demand patterns across India. While scooters continue to account for the majority of sales in urban markets across western and southern India, commuter motorcycles remain the preferred choice in many northern and eastern regions. However, Honda believes rising rural incomes are gradually increasing demand for scooters beyond traditional urban markets.
HMSI reported sales of 5.75 million two-wheelers during FY26, representing an 8 percent year-on-year increase. Although Hero MotoCorp retained its position as India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer during the financial year, Honda briefly led monthly industry sales on multiple occasions. Otani said the company’s primary focus remains on long-term growth through product expansion, supply chain efficiency and strengthening its brand portfolio beyond high-volume models such as the Activa and Shine.
