The patent images of the commuter electric bike from Honda reveals the inclusion of two detachable battery packs of 1.5 kWh as standard
Honda 2-Wheeler India forayed into the EV segment with the launch of the Activa e and QC1 e-scooters last year in the country. However, both the models flopped big time and at one point, the brand was compelled to halt the production of both these electric scooters. Now, recent filings reveal that Honda is working on an all-electric commuter motorcycle, targeted at the entry-level segment. Our sources have said that the upcoming Honda electric bike could be based on the Shine 100, which is quite popular among masses in the Indian market.
Going by the patent filing, the electric motorcycle flaunts a simplistic design with drum brake units at both the ends. The suspension duties are performed by a traditional telescopic front fork and dual-shock rear absorbers. Sitting on an ordinary backbone frame, it boasts of a round headlamp which reminds of older commuter models of the company in partnership with Hero, predominantly the Hero Honda CD Dawn.
The patent images also reveal the inclusion of a round instrument cluster. In addition, there appears to be a secondary display system on top of the fuel tank, which apparently would be showcasing the battery status. It is pretty evident from these filings that the upcoming Honda electric bike would prioritize practicality over performance while being user-friendly.
The electric powertrain showcased in the patent has detachable battery packs with an electric motor. Well, this is not the first time that we are seeing this setup as earlier too a few images of the Shine 100 based electric motorcycle had surfaced online with similar removable batteries. Honda is trying to capitalise on its battery swapping network which is still in early stages in India.
Though it is not official yet, we can assume the entry-level commuter electric bike will carry two portable battery packs of 1.5 kWh each. Presently, Honda Activa e is also offered with the same swappable batteries in India. Hence, it is quite likely that the Japanese brand would expand its battery swapping network in major cities of the country to ensure hasslefree pick and drop of charged batteries.
The patent filing of a model never guarantees that it will enter series production and eventually be launched in the market. But, since Honda is quite focused on developing localised electric two-wheelers for India, the possibilities of this particular e-motorcycle seeing the daylight cannot be ruled out entirely. So, stay tuned to this page for more updates.
