Honda's Ongoing EV Motorcycle Concepts: What's the Hold-Up on Release?

The WH8000D, also known as "E-VO," is another electric commuter bike. Let's hope it goes into production soon.

As new manufacturers fully commit to electric motorcycles , bigger brands like Honda , Yamaha , and Ducati They are adopting a more cautious strategy. This doesn't mean they're opposed to electric vehicles—they actually see significant potential. Rather, they are methodically exploring the market, making sure not to race ahead of consumer demand and risk meeting the same end as various start-ups that grew at an accelerated pace only to crumble rapidly thereafter.

This is precisely why we're witnessing measured yet steady progress from these major players instead of a complete shift towards electrification.

Honda has been gradually moving towards electrification, concentrating primarily on pragmatic and scalable options instead of fully embracing high-performance electric motorcycles. A clear illustration of this approach is its Mobile Power Pack e: , a swappable battery system designed for scooters and light motorcycles. The EM1 e:, launched in 2023, is one such example, aimed at urban commuters looking for convenience and ease of use.

Next, there were the ideas that Honda hinted at. EICMA . The EV Fun was a sleek electric sports car featuring bold, aggressively styled design elements reminiscent of naked motorcycles, whereas the Urban concept suggested a more functional urban scooter, akin to BMW’s CE-04 Both indicated that Honda is looking beyond just scooters and moving towards motorcycles that offer an exciting riding experience while remaining practical for daily commuting.

The most recent indication of Honda’s commitment to electric motorcycles originates from its Chinese partnership, Wuyang-Honda. This firm has recently been granted approval for a new model designated as the WH8000D, which features designs hinting at its potential release under the title "E-VO."

First reported by Cycle World ’s Ben Purvis The WH8000D represents a significant shift from Honda’s earlier electric vehicles. Distinctively different from their EM1 e: and other electric scooters, this model is a full-fledged motorcycle rather than merely a larger-motor version of a traditional scooter design.

The WH8000D may not be a true superbike, yet it promises to be an enjoyable city cruiser with a touch of sporting flair. This motorcycle comes equipped with an 8 kW engine (approximately 11 horsepower), which might seem modest at first glance; however, this figure represents the sustained power output, whereas peak performance can potentially soar even higher. According to these specifications, its capabilities would likely mirror those of a typical 150cc gasoline-driven motorcycle, making it agile enough for navigating through town streets and possibly enjoying spirited rides along winding roads as well.

In terms of dimensions, it doesn't seem like a full-sized model but more likely an electric enhancement to Honda’s Mini-Moto series. My estimate is that it's roughly the same size as a Grom or CFMoto Papio And I'm also assuming it will appeal to occasional riders, people who commute, and perhaps even those into stunts.

Cycle World The report indicates that two variants of the bicycle have received approval: a more lightweight version weighing 143 kilograms (315 pounds), capable of reaching speeds up to 110 kilometers per hour (68 miles per hour); and a slightly heavier model tipping the scales at 157 kilograms (345 pounds) with a maximum velocity of 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour). These figures place this electric commuting option in line with numerous compact gasoline-driven counterparts.

The WH8000D—or E-VO, judging by the label on the fairing—doesn't aim to compete with top-tier electric motorcycles such as those produced by Zero. Rather, it seems poised to become an attractive option for urban cyclists seeking both enjoyment and functionality for everyday rides. Its fully faired café racer design offers greater visual allure compared to standard electric scooters, potentially appealing to young riders searching for a distinctive mode of transport ideal for showcasing on social media platforms like Instagram.

A major question about this bicycle concerns whether it will utilize Honda’s swappable Mobile Power Pack e:. Honda has made significant investments in battery-swapping facilities in places such as Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. The company employs the Power Pack e: for various applications including small scooters, machinery used in construction, and more. tourist boats Therefore, extending that ecosystem to include a motorcycle like the E-VO is logical.

Despite this, specifics about the E-VO’s battery configuration are still hazy. Should Honda opt for its current technology, it might position the E-VO as one of the more user-friendly electric bikes available, enabling bikers to swiftly replace an empty battery rather than enduring long wait times for charging. This feature could significantly benefit city dwellers looking for a consistent, hassle-free electric vehicle for their everyday travel needs.

Although Honda might not be hurrying to enter the electric motorcycle market with top-tier sports bikes, it is evidently establishing a foundation for a future-oriented electric vehicle plan. If the E-VO becomes available globally, it could serve as a crucial component of this strategic layout.

For now, we must await official statements; however, this represents an encouraging move towards a wider range of electric vehicles from Honda. While it may fall short of being the ideal electric sports bike we've envisioned, the E-VO could serve as an attractive and functional choice for urban commuters considering making the transition to electric motorcycles.

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Source: Cycle World