Honda EM1 e scooter: Details of first new electric unveiled

Honda’s vision of achieving carbon neutrality within the 2040s has taken a step forward as their first electric moped, EM1 e, hits the UK market.

Aimed primarily at the urban commuter, specifically students looking for green, cheap short-haul run-arounds the EM1 e is noteworthy for its significance in the Japanese giant’s line-up rather than its spec sheet.

The in-wheel motor propels the moped to a modest top speed of just under 30mph and a range of between 25 and 30 miles depending on the riding mode. It does, however, produce 66lb.ft of torque; more than a Triumph Street Triple 765!

The 10.3kg, 50.3v lithium-ion battery is removable which could be a long-term benefit if Honda Mobile Power Pack exchange stations get as common here as they are in Asia.

As it is, the battery will take six hours to charge from empty to full and 160 minutes from 25% to 75% and can be charged from a domestic mains source.

Honda have packed a lot into the EM1 e including a useful 3.3 litres of under-seat storage, a USB charging port, LED lights all round, bag hook, grab rails and foldable pillion footpegs.

This is mounted on a steel underbone frame with 31mm telescopic front forks, matched to twin rear shock absorbers to soak up the lumps and bumps during commuting.

The 12in front wheel is made from cast aluminium to keep the weight down while the 10in rear is a steel/aluminium composite design.

Honda have opted for a combined braking system (CBS) which comprises a 190mm single-piston calliper front disc and an 110mm drum rear. When the rear brake is activated, CBS distributes braking power to the front caliper.

With a seat height of 740mm the EM1 e will be accessible to shorter riders and combined with a weight of just 95kg, including the battery, should allow easy manoeuvrability.

It is the first in what Honda say will be at least 10 electric two-wheelers introduced to their global line-up by 2025.

Honda EM1 e in detail

• Two’s up: The EM1 e is a two-passenger moped, with grab rails, long seat and foot pegs that fold away into the body work when not in use and has a load capacity of 180kg.
• Going eco: The EM1 e has two riding modes, normal or ECON. The economy mode increases the range by a little over four miles and is accessed via an LCD display.
• Mobile power: The Mobile Power Pack e battery is a square design with an integrated grab handle for easy removal. The 10kg unit can be charged over 2500 times claim Honda.
• Easy rider: Weighing in at just 95kg including the 10kg battery and with a seat height of 740mm the EM1 e should be a highly flickable, easy to ride scooter for novice riders.
• Honda DNA: It will be available in three colour schemes – pearl sunbeam white, digital silver metallic and matte ballistic black metallic.