Electrical project aimed at emerging countries prioritizes low cost, with removable side batteries and simplified mechanics
Contrary to the global race for sophisticated and high value-added electric vehicles, Honda is preparing an offensive aimed at the lower end of the market. Images of a new patent filed by the Japanese automaker reveal the development of an electric motorcycle with a utilitarian proposal, tailor-made for markets where the final price is the decisive factor for purchase — such as Brazil, India and countries on the African continent.
To enable a competitive cost compared to entry-level combustion motorcycles, Honda’s engineering cut excesses: the model uses a tubular steel chassis, front drum brake with mechanical cable drive and conventional rear shock absorbers. The goal, it is suggested, is to create a robust motorcycle with simplified maintenance.
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The great innovation of the project lies in the solution found for energy storage. This is because the compact electric propulsion is powered by two removable batteries, fixed to the sides of the vehicle and protected by articulated metal grilles. This configuration allows the user to remove the batteries for recharging at domestic outlets, circumventing the precariousness of public charging infrastructure in developing countries.
To further reduce complexity, Honda dispensed with the internal charger. Thus, the batteries connect directly to the controller via external flexible cables, eliminating expensive components. Interestingly, the brand has chosen not to use its global battery change standard (the Mobile Power Pack e:), indicating that this model will follow its own strand of components to ensure the lowest possible price.
Visually, the electric motorcycle inherits the ergonomics and proportions of the Honda Shine 100, the best-selling combustion model in emerging regions. Although the automaker maintains confidentiality about technical data such as autonomy or power, the level of detail of the industrial drawings suggests that the project is at an advanced stage.
