Honda has taken a bold step into the future with the unveiling of its first production-ready electric motorcycle, the EM1 e:. This sleek, urban-focused machine, with its impressive torque and range, is set to make waves in the e-moto market. However, its pricing could be a potential stumbling block for some consumers.
Unveiling the EM1 e: Concept
The EM1 e: made its debut at the EICMA 2022 trade show in Milan, Italy, where it turned heads with its minimalist design. The naked-style electric motorcycle prototype features a steel tubular frame and 12-inch wheels, giving it a compact and agile look. The design is complemented by the impressive specs under the hood, as detailed in Honda’s official press release.
Powered by a 12kW brushless motor, the EM1 e: boasts a torque output of 156Nm and a top speed of 80km/h. The battery capacity stands at 3.7kWh, which allows for a claimed urban range of 100km. The bike also features removable side panels for easy charging access, a thoughtful design choice for urban commuters.
Key Features and Performance
The EM1 e: is designed for city riding, with its instant torque delivery of 156Nm from standstill. This allows for quick acceleration from 0-50km/h in under 4 seconds, making it ideal for navigating through city traffic. The bike also features a regenerative braking system that extends the range by up to 10% during stop-and-go traffic, integrated with a single-speed transmission.
Despite its robust performance, the EM1 e: remains lightweight at 110kg total weight. This is achieved through the use of an aluminum swingarm and magnesium components, which not only reduce weight but also enhance handling agility.
Pricing and Market Positioning
The base model of the EM1 e: is priced at $9,000 (approximately ¥1,300,000 in Japan) for the 2024 launch, excluding taxes and incentives. This places it in a competitive position in the e-moto market, undercutting the Zero SR/F priced at $19,000, but exceeding the Super73-ZX priced at $3,995. The EM1 e: is thus targeting mid-range urban buyers.
However, potential U.S. buyers should be aware of possible pricing adjustments due to import tariffs. The estimated price upon its 2025 North American debut is between $11,000 and $12,000.
Launch Timeline and Availability
The EM1 e: is set to launch in Japan in late 2024, followed by Europe in early 2025. However, a U.S. launch date remains unconfirmed, with Honda executives only stating “2026 or later”. The bikes will be produced at Honda’s Kumamoto factory in Japan, with an annual output target of 10,000 units in the first year.
Japanese buyers can also look forward to EV rebates of up to ¥550,000, potentially reducing the effective cost to under $8,000.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its impressive features, the EM1 e: has faced some criticism. Its range of 100km, while sufficient for urban commuting, is insufficient for highway use. Independent tests have shown real-world figures of 80–90km. Furthermore, the bike’s charging time of 3 hours via a standard outlet has been criticized for lacking fast-charge options compared to rivals like Energica.
From an ergonomic perspective, the bike’s small 750mm seat height has received mixed feedback. While it suits shorter commuters, taller users over 6 feet have found it cramped.
Future Implications for Honda’s EV Strategy
The launch of the EM1 e: is a significant step in Honda’s broader electrification goals. The company aims for a 100% EV/hybrid lineup by 2040, and the EM1 e: is a clear demonstration of this commitment. As CEO Toshihiro Mibe stated at the EICMA keynote, “The EM1 e: represents our commitment to sustainable mobility without compromising on fun”.
With global e-moto sales expected to hit 50 million units by 2030, Honda is well-positioned to capture a significant market share. The EM1 e: is not just a new product, but a statement of intent from Honda about its vision for the future of mobility.