Honda QC1

The QC1 looks very similar to the electric Activa from the front, but it gets a different tail-lamp setup, unique alloy wheels and a few simpler cosmetic touches. The negative LCD display is basic but well laid out and bright enough. The QC1 misses Bluetooth connectivity and even a reverse mode, which is unusual for an electric scooter today. Overall, it has a budget feel, but it never comes across as poorly made.

The QC1 feels light and manageable because of its size. The seat and riding position are reasonably spacious, and there is enough room for a pillion as well. However, comfort is limited by the budget suspension, which can handle small bumps reasonably well but gets unsettled quite easily over larger ones.

With a 1.5kWh battery, an 80km claimed IDC range and a 50kph claimed top speed, the QC1 is clearly aimed at short urban trips. Standard mode is the only practical option for regular city traffic, while Eco mode restricts speed to 30kph and is mainly useful when trying to stretch the remaining charge. It can reach an indicated 53kph, but initial acceleration feels rather sluggish. Charging is another limitation, as the supplied 330W charger takes 6 hours and 50 minutes to fully charge a flat battery.

At 89.5kg, the QC1 is one of the lightest two-wheelers on sale, making it very easy to manoeuvre through traffic. It feels delightfully flickable and works well as a short-distance urban runabout. Braking performance is acceptable for its modest performance, although the drum brakes feel dull and lack feel. A parking brake clasp is a useful addition.

The QC1 comes with a side-stand cutoff, automatic motor activation when lifted off the stand, a parking brake clasp and a simple LCD display. The feature list is functional rather than generous, and the absence of Bluetooth connectivity and reverse mode is noticeable.

The QC1 is one of the more affordable electric scooters and offers Honda’s promise of reliability and low running costs. However, its low top speed, limited range and very slow charging time make it difficult to ignore better-rounded alternatives such as the base TVS iQube or Bajaj Chetak.