Honda’s First Electric Motorcycle Is Here: Honda’s long-anticipated leap into full-size electric motorcycles is finally official. Meet the Honda E‑VO, an electric café racer co-developed with China’s Wuyang-Honda. This sleek, smart, and surprisingly powerful motorcycle marks a major pivot in Honda’s electrification strategy—and it’s already making waves across the EV industry. If you’re tired of small electric scooters that don’t cut it on highways or want a green alternative to your 125cc gas bike, this machine may just be your next ride—at least, if you’re in China for now.
Honda’s First Electric Motorcycle Is Here
The Honda E‑VO is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a glimpse into Honda’s electric future. With its blend of retro style, smart tech, highway-capable performance, and real-world practicality, this bike proves electric two-wheelers are ready to go mainstream. While it’s only available in China for now, it sets the stage for Honda’s electrification plans worldwide. If you’re a commuter, business owner, or EV enthusiast, the E‑VO is the kind of machine that makes you rethink what a motorcycle can be.
| Feature | 4.1 kWh Variant | 6.2 kWh Variant | Data & References |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4.1 kWh (dual pack) | 6.2 kWh (triple pack) | WMTC rated |
| Range (WMTC) | 120 km (≈75 miles) | 170 km (≈105 miles) | Certified figures |
| Motor Output | 15.3–15.8 kW (20–21 hp peak) | Same | Wuyang-Honda Specs |
| Top Speed | 120 km/h (~75 mph) | 120 km/h | Road tested |
| Acceleration (0–50 km/h) | 2.8 seconds | 2.8 seconds | Independent review |
| Charge Time (20–80%) | 1–1.5 hours (fast) | 1.5–2.5 hours (fast/standard) | EV charging chart |
| Weight (kerb) | 143 kg | 156 kg | Wuyang-Honda docs |
| Price (CNY) | ¥29,999 (~$4,500) | ¥36,999 (~$5,100) | Honda China site |
| Availability | China only | China only | Official Site |
What Is Honda’s First Electric Motorcycle Is Here?
The Honda E‑VO (model WH8000D) is Honda’s first full-size electric motorcycle, developed exclusively for the Chinese market in collaboration with Wuyang-Honda. Unlike scooters or light electric mopeds, this machine is designed for urban and suburban commuting with performance that rivals traditional 125cc internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles.
Its specs are impressive: it features a mid-mounted electric motor, dual or triple battery pack options, a café-racer style, and a full digital dashboard. It blends form, function, and sustainability into one commuter-friendly, tech-packed package.
Design & Build
Retro Looks, Modern Muscles
The Honda E‑VO is styled like a classic café racer but packed with modern features. From the round LED headlamp and sculpted fairings to the bar-end mirrors and sporty single-seat design, it’s a looker.
Lightweight but Sturdy
Made from forged aluminum, the bike is both lightweight and durable. At 143–156 kg depending on battery configuration, it’s easy to handle for beginners yet solid enough for seasoned riders.
Comfortable Geometry
With a 765 mm seat height, 186 mm ground clearance, and a 1,380 mm wheelbase, the E‑VO offers a confident stance for most adult riders without feeling bulky.
Battery & Charging
Modular, Efficient Power
The E‑VO comes with two battery configurations:
- 4.1 kWh (dual-pack): Range of 120 km
- 6.2 kWh (triple-pack): Range of 170 km
The batteries are removable and rechargeable via home AC or DC fast chargers.
Charging Times
- Fast Charger (DC): 20–80% in about 1 hour (4.1 kWh) or 1.5 hours (6.2 kWh)
- Standard AC Charger: 1.5–2.5 hours depending on pack size
Honda has designed the battery packs to be plug-and-play for maintenance and easy serviceability.
Performance & Power
Acceleration & Speed
The mid-mounted electric motor outputs 15.3–15.8 kW (20–21 hp). That means:
- 0–50 km/h in just 2.8 seconds
- Top speed of 120 km/h, enough for suburban highways
This makes the E‑VO not only fun but very functional for daily commuting, unlike most electric scooters that top out at 50–60 km/h.
Riding Modes
The bike features four riding modes:
- Eco: Max efficiency
- Normal: Balanced performance
- Sport: Enhanced acceleration
- Thunderbolt: Full power and max output mode
These modes help customize the ride depending on battery status, road conditions, or rider preference.
Tech Features
Double the Screens, Double the Control
Two 7-inch TFT screens display everything from speed and battery percentage to navigation, media, and Bluetooth connectivity. One screen acts as the traditional gauge cluster, while the second allows for expanded smartphone integration and features.
Safety & Convenience
- Dual-channel ABS
- Traction control
- Hill-hold assist
- Cruise control
- Reverse gear
- Side-stand engine cut-off
You also get a dash cam—front as standard, rear on the higher-spec version. These feed directly to the display screens.
Extra Utilities
- NFC-based keyless start
- USB-A and USB-C charging ports
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Smartphone storage compartment with charger
Environmental Impact
Electric motorcycles offer more than just a quiet ride—they help reduce urban pollution and carbon emissions significantly.
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- 85–90% motor efficiency compared to 25–30% in ICE engines
- Uses less energy per km than gasoline equivalents
- Reduces urban heat and noise pollution
In a world aiming for net-zero emissions, the E‑VO contributes toward a greener future while making no compromises on performance.
Cost of Ownership vs Gas Bikes
Here’s how the Honda E‑VO stacks up over time:
| Category | 125cc Gas Bike | Honda E‑VO |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Costs | $40–60/month | $5–10/month (electricity) |
| Annual Maintenance | $300–$500 | $100–$150 |
| Oil Changes | Every 2,000 km | None |
| Brakes & Chain | Frequent replacement | Minimal (regenerative braking) |
| Emissions | CO2 producing | Zero tailpipe emissions |
This adds up to thousands in savings over 3–5 years, especially for daily or commercial riders.
Market Outlook and Global Availability
Where Can You Get It?
Right now, the Honda E‑VO is available only in China through Honda’s local JV partner, Wuyang-Honda.
Will It Launch Globally?
Honda has not announced global plans, but signs point to future expansion. They showcased two EV concepts at EICMA 2024—”EV Fun” and “EV Urban”—indicating that more full-size electric bikes are in development for global markets.
The delay is likely due to:
- Regional homologation requirements
- Charging infrastructure disparities
- EV tax regulations
However, given the rise of EV demand in the U.S., Europe, and India, it’s likely the E‑VO or a variant of it will launch internationally within the next few years.
Over-the-Air Updates and Connectivity
Although not confirmed, the bike’s smart dashboard and digital controls suggest that over-the-air (OTA) updates may become available in the future. This could allow Honda to:
- Add new ride modes
- Patch software issues
- Improve charging efficiency
- Enable remote diagnostics
Such features would bring the E‑VO closer to the “smart vehicle” category alongside electric cars.
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Community and Rider Experience
Early adopters in China have praised the bike for:
- Smooth power delivery
- Impressive stability
- Useful dash cam recordings for incidents
- Low charging costs
User forums also highlight the comfort of the seat and predictable handling as pros, with some riders asking for a more aggressive sport mode.
As EV motorcycles gain traction, expect clubs and online communities to grow around these new machines, just like traditional motorcycle groups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I buy the E‑VO in the U.S. or Europe?
Not yet. It’s currently only sold in China. Honda has not provided a global launch date.
Q2: Is the range enough for daily commuting?
Absolutely. 120–170 km per charge is plenty for daily riders, especially in urban areas.
Q3: Is it beginner-friendly?
Yes. With manageable power and safety features like traction control and ABS, it’s great for new riders.
Q4: How do I charge it at home?
Use a standard 220V outlet with the supplied charger. A Level 2 EV charger will speed things up.
Q5: Can it be used for delivery services?
Definitely. With its range, quick charging, and low running costs, it’s ideal for delivery fleets.
