The WH8000D, also known as "E-VO," is an additional option for electric commuters. 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 are opposed to electric vehicles—they are quite open to them actually. Rather, they are methodically exploring the market, making sure not to move faster than the demand allows, thus avoiding the pitfalls faced by numerous start-ups that grew too rapidly only to fail spectacularly soon after.
This is why we're witnessing careful yet steady moves from these major players instead of a complete shift towards electrification.
Honda has been inching toward electrification, focusing heavily on practical and scalable solutions rather than diving headfirst into high-performance electric motorcycles. A prime example of this 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, we had the ideas that Honda hinted at. EICMA . The EV Fun was a sleek electric sports car featuring bold, aggressively styled design cues inspired by 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 enjoyable riding experience while remaining practical for daily commuting.
Honda Mobile Power Pack e:
The most recent indication of Honda’s commitment to electric motorcycles originates from its Chinese joint venture, Wuyang-Honda. This partnership has recently obtained approval for a new model designated as the WH8000D, featuring styling elements that imply it will likely hit the market under the moniker "E-VO."
First reported by Cycle World ’s Ben Purvis , the WH8000D is an interesting departure from Honda’s previous EV offerings. Unlike the EM1 e: and other electric scooters, this is a proper motorcycle, not just a step-through with a bigger motor.
Could this be the most stylish electric Honda motorcycle yet—assuming it makes it to production?
The WH8000D is no superbike, but it’s shaping up to be a fun city commuter with some sporty character. The bike features an 8 kW (around 11 horsepower) motor, which might not sound like much, but that’s the continuous output—peak power could be significantly higher. Based on the numbers, it could perform similarly to a 150cc gas-powered motorcycle, which means it’s zippy enough for urban riding and perhaps the odd blast up and down a twisty road.
In terms of dimensions, it doesn't seem to be a full-sized unit but more likely an electric enhancement to Honda’s Mini-Moto series. From what I can tell, it's roughly the same size as a Grom or CFMoto Papio And I'm betting that it will appeal to occasional riders, people who commute, and perhaps even those into stunts.
Cycle World The report indicates that two variations of the bicycle have received approval: a more lightweight model weighing 143 kilograms (315 pounds), capable of reaching speeds up to 110 kilometers per hour (68 miles per hour); and a slightly heavier version at 157 kilograms (345 pounds) which can achieve velocities of up to 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour). This performance level is quite commendable for an electric commuting bike, placing it within the category comparable to numerous small-engine motorcycles.
The WH8000D—dubbed E-VO based on the label visible on the fairing—is not poised to compete with top-tier electric motorcycles such as those produced by Zero. Rather, this model seems destined to become an appealing urban bicycle designed for individuals seeking both enjoyment and functionality for everyday rides. Featuring a fully faired café racer design, it boasts greater visual allure compared to standard electric scooters, potentially drawing younger cyclists attracted to its distinctive style, ideal for enhancing their social media presence.
Honda’s Mobile Power Pack e: energizes tour boats in Japan.
A major question about this bicycle revolves around 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: to energize various devices ranging from small scooters to heavy machinery, and potentially more. tourist boats Therefore, extending that ecosystem to include a motorcycle like the E-VO is quite logical.
Despite this, specifics about the E-VO’s battery configuration are still hazy. Should Honda opt for their current technology, it might position the E-VO as a highly convenient electric motorcycle within the industry. This would enable bikers to swiftly replace an empty battery rather than enduring long charging times. Such a feature could significantly benefit city dwellers looking for a consistent, hassle-free electric vehicle for their everyday journeys.
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 broader range of electric vehicles from Honda. While it may fall short of being the ideal electric sports bike, the E-VO has potential as a fashionable and functional choice for urban commuters considering making the transition to electric bikes.
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Source: Cycle World
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