Honda Cars India has unveiled its latest SUV, the Elevate, which is specifically designed for the Indian market. This marks the first of five SUVs that Honda plans to launch in India by the year 2030. The company has announced that bookings for the Honda Elevate will begin next month, with the official launch scheduled to take place before the start of the festive season.
Made-in-India Honda Elevate Set for Global Export
In addition to catering to the Indian market, Honda aims to export the Elevate globally. The company recognizes the potential of the Indian market as a key export hub for this model in the future. Furthermore, Honda Cars India plans to introduce an electric version of the Elevate within the next three years.
Honda’s Strategic SUV Gameplan for India
Takuya Tsumura, president and CEO of Honda Cars India, expressed confidence in the company’s robust product strategy for India. Honda’s plan includes the introduction of five SUVs by 2030. While the Elevate will take a prominent role in the Indian market, it will also serve as a significant export model. Honda’s long-term vision for India involves establishing the country as a key production and distribution center for their SUV lineup.
Honda’s Focus on Premium Models through CBU and CKD Routes
Honda’s ongoing strategy to strengthen its brand presence in India includes exploring the potential of bringing in premium models through the completely built-up (CBU) and completely knocked-down (CKD) routes. The company plans to introduce at least one new model every year in India, incorporating hybrid and electric vehicles into their lineup.
Elevate Positioned as Competitor to Hyundai Creta
Honda’s entry into the midsize SUV segment comes at a time when SUVs dominate the Indian market, accounting for over 40 percent of overall sales. The Honda Elevate will compete directly with popular models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. Positioned in the midsize SUV market, which has become the second-largest sub-segment, the Elevate is expected to bolster Honda’s presence in this rapidly growing segment.
Tapukara Facility to Manufacture the Elevate
To accommodate the production of the Elevate and upcoming models, Honda has increased production capacity at its plant in Tapukara, Rajasthan. The plant’s daily manufacturing capacity has been raised from 540 vehicles to 660 vehicles per day, allowing for efficient production of the Elevate and meeting the growing demand for Honda vehicles in India.
Honda Enhances Dealership Network in Preparation for Elevate Launch
Honda Cars India has invested Rs 260 crore to upgrade its showrooms with a new customer interface (CI) ahead of the Elevate’s launch. The brand currently operates 326 outlets across 238 cities in India. Honda acknowledges the strong demand for its existing offerings in smaller cities, with Tier 3 cities accounting for approximately 30 percent of its overall sales. The Elevate will be launched in India first, followed by its introduction in other global markets.
