At the Milan Motorcycle Show in 2022, Japanese automobile giant Honda unveiled its latest electric scooter, the EM1, coming to the European markets. Launched as an affordable option for the city commuter, the EM1 makes no compromises on comfort, safety and design for two riders. It is the perfect, cute little scooter that almost every one of you would want in your home, especially thanks to the brand value that Honda offers. Here’s the Honda EM1 price in India, features, specifications, range, colours, images and everything we know so far. read on.
Honda EM1 price in India (expected)
There is no official confirmation on the Honda EM1 price in India at the moment. But, considering that the EM1 could be a new Honda U-Go, we can expect the new scooter to start from EUR 985 (~Rs. 87,000) in the European market. If that is indeed the case, then the Honda EM1 may enter the sub-Rs 1 lakh price segment in India. The segment is currently dominated by other options like the Ola S1, Bounce Infinity E1, Electric Optima and Ampere Magnus EX.
Honda EM1 Features
Now let’s talk about the features of Honda EM1. Slated to be available in the European market by the summer of 2023, the e-scooter features a flat surface to offer a moped-like experience to customers in Europe. Plus, with things like a removable battery pack, low top speed, and an ergonomic design, this scooter is made for short commutes around town.
The best part about its batteries is that they are made as part of mobile power packs, in line with the consortium formed between Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha and Suzuki to make common swappable batteries. Therefore, finding a new one on the go will not be a problem.
The rims on the wheels are 10 inches bigger, which makes for a comfortable ride. In terms of design elements, there isn’t much to ride home with, except that it has a very Activa, aviator-esque design with rear panniers and a footrest for the rear passengers.
Honda EM1 Photos
honda em1 specifications
Talking about the specifications, reports suggest that the EM1 is very similar to the U-Go in every sense. Thus, we can expect the top model with dual batteries to offer 1.2kW nominal and 1.8kW peak power output. The batteries will be made from Lithium Ion and will be capable of being recharged 3,000 times over their lifetime. With a claimed range of 40 km on a single charge, this means the scooter is tested to last 1,20,000 km over its lifetime before you need to replace the battery.
Some of the safety features include an anti-theft alarm which would be useful for users who have to park the scooter outside their premises. The USB outlet will also help you charge your devices on the go.
Note that a base variant, with a single battery, 0.8kW nominal output, and a weight of 83kg is unlikely to eventually make it to Indian shores due to the range and power offered by the competition.
Glasses
- Brand: Honda
- Model: EM1
- Speed: 40 km/h
- Power: 1.2 kW (1.8 kW peak)
- Weight: 83kg
- Battery: 18650 Lithium
- Battery Life: 3,000 cycles
- Range: 133km
- Charge Time: 2 hours
- Motor: 1.2kw
- Max Range: 40km+
- Top Speed: 40 kmph
- Front Suspension: Telescopic Fork
- Rear Suspension: Dual-Shock Absorber
- Battery: NA
- Front Brake: Disc
- Rear Brake: Drum
- Seat Height: 740mm
Honda EM1 Colors
As of now, there is no information on the color options of the Honda EM1 that will make it to India. While the images from the event show a white color option, which is usually common for every scooter, we can expect a black variant as well. And, like other Honda scooters, other alternatives to the Honda EM1 may also hit the market.
Honda EM1 Warranty
While Honda is yet to launch any electric scooter in India, it is expected to face stiff competition from the likes of Hero Electric, Okinawa and Ola. On those lines, and with the service that the brand is known for, the Honda EM1 could come with a warranty coverage of at least 3 years and 30,000 kms. To sweeten the deal, Honda may also offer an unlimited kilometer warranty.
Honda EM1 Review
The Honda EM1 is an average little scooter for the odd grocery or dining run in your city. It is compact, lightweight, fast to charge, and comes with added comfort and safety for the rider and pillion. While it doesn’t offer the battery range of the Ola S1 Pro or the top speed of the Ather 450X, it definitely packs a punch in the affordable segment. Moreover, with Honda’s brand value to go along with it, the scooter is sure to be a hit once it hits the Indian shores. It is silent, affordable and reliable. The perfect combination for the average city commuter.
Here are some pros and cons:
pros
- affordable option
- reliable brand value
- Packed with comfort and safety features
- ergonomic design elements
Shortcoming
- Not yet released in many places including India
- Battery range and top speed may be dealbreakers for some
