Honda Activa 7G: The Honda Activa is considered to be one of the most life altering two-wheelers of the contemporary Indian vehicular scenario.
This unpretending scooter brought in 2001 is the positively redefined form of personal mobility in sub continent and is included in the list of India’s top-selling two wheelers every month.
The highly anticipated 7th generation will build upon this reputation and has fans of the affordable, class leading vehicle excited that it is the next model to continue the evolution of what has been called “America’s Family Car” for millions.
Honda Activa 7G: Legacy of Innovation
The story of Activa traces back to when Honda saw the need of an automatic scooter that is easy enough to maintain in India where people ride on motorcycles over scooters.
The first model to be introduced was packed with innovations for its time, including a 4-stroke engine and variomatic transmission (CVT) pioneering a new chapter in the industry.
Honda worked on the basic equation over successive generations, but it kept focus on the principles of durability, fuel economy and ease of use.
The upcoming 7th generation follows in its fathers footsteps, adding the modern technology he desires and the current interests of the boardgaming market.
Anticipated Design Evolution
The upcoming 7G model is likely to feature the same iconic Activa profile but very much updated.
Expected to feature on the design agenda are sharper LED headlamps with signature daytime running lights, fresh body panels with slightly angular character lines, as well as a revised front apron that strikes the perfect balance between new-age styling and the car’s established look.
The side views is probably going to keep the functional step-through look with more pronounced character lines, and dusty side panels that make it look a bit more modern without loosing its scooter appeal. That being said, chrome trims on the premium models add a touch of class at strategic parts.
Some of the rear design elements we might see is refreshed LED taillights with a unique light–signature, a new grab rail design acted more organically to the machine and subtle graphic elements to differentiate it from the yesteryear model.
Powertrain Refinements
Powertrain:The heart of the Activa 7G will presumably be the same 110cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that already powers the Activa, but will feature an updated and a BS6-compliant PGM-FI.
Power numbers are not expected to exceed to 7.5 bhp and 9 Nm of torque, figures that are more inclined towards refinement and fuel economy rather than performance.
The engine probably has evolved combustion chamber shaping, timing of the valves and reduced internal friction to produce a combination of efficiency and compliance with emissions.
Honda’s eSP (enhanced Smart Power) technology further optimizes energy output for enhanced energy conservation and even more responsive throttling.
The same CVT gearbox also makes a return and as usual, it gives you smooth acceleration without the need for gearshifts – a signature feature that went a long way in keeping us from sweating it out even when not-so-experienced riders experienced the Activa.
Feature Integration
The 7G will feature presumably come with some technical upgrades. All-new instrument cluster, which will become a full digital screen instrument with Bluetooth function for smartphone integration via Honda mobile app – navigation, phone calls (incoming, miss call, call & caller ID), as well as vehicle information and diagnostics infomation.
Keyless operation and smart key feature is expected featuring the convenience of opening the seat and fuel cap with key in your pocket. Improved storage options could mean even more under-seat storage with built-in USB ports, and with any luck, an additional carry spot on the front end.
Similarly, safety kit could extend to side-stand indicators linked to an engine inhibitor, an integrated braking system throughout the range and maybe even a traction control system on higher-spec versions – Honda is stressing safety more and more.
Underpinnings and Dynamics
The underpinning frame and suspension are likely to get some updates and not over-the-top revisions, thereby also not taking away the balance of comfort and composure that the Activa experience is all about.
The underbone chassis contributes to high rigidity which helps to centralize masses such as the rider and fuel tank.
Front suspension may go from the under-link for of the frame to telescopic forks across the line, for better bump absorption, and the rear continues with the single-shock absorber that’s been tuned for comfort, with two- or three-step adjustability.
Stopping duties are most certainly carried out by drum brakes (front disc on higher models) with CBS offering proper balance for braking even if you’re a novice rider.
Market Positioning
The 7-G gets launched in a more crowded scooter market than when the Activa was first launched. It plays against competitors such as the TVS Jupiter, Suzuki Access and Hero Maestro Edge, all of which have their respective unique selling points.
Honda’s approach then, probably is to build further on the Activa’s incredible reliability, superb network of service support and unassailable resale value – qualities that are extraneous to the spec sheet, but which most certainly impact purchasing decisions when it comes to the practical scooter segment.
Honda Activa 7G
the Honda Activa 7G is an evolution of a vehicle that has turned into a cultural phenomenon in India. Honda hopes to continue the Activa’s success in a changing market by preserving the basic characteristics that won over the consumer, while also proactively adding in new technology.
“In the era of unprecedented convergence of personal mobility needs and environmental concerns, Activa has proven a key enabler in fulfilling the dreams and aspirations of millions of families in India,” said Minoru Kato, President and CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India.