Key Takeaways
- Honda unveils the WN7, an electric motorcycle designed for commuters in the European market.
- Priced at £12,999 (approximately US $18,000), concerns arise about its competitiveness against other options.
- The bike features a range of 130 km (83 miles), smartphone integration, and fast charging capabilities.
Honda’s New Electric Motorcycle: WN7
Honda has introduced the WN7, its newest electric motorcycle aimed at the commuter segment in Europe, as part of its broader strategy towards carbon neutrality. This launch marks a significant step in Honda’s electrification efforts, with the WN7 expected to play a key role in the company’s future lineup of larger electric two-wheelers.
With a starting price of £12,999 (about US $18,000), the WN7’s market viability is in question given the intense competition in the electric motorcycle sector. While Honda has not disclosed comprehensive technical specifications, initial details reveal a permanent magnet synchronous motor and a chain drive system, appealing to users familiar with traditional gas-powered motorcycles.
The WN7 includes a 5-inch color TFT display and introduces Honda’s new RoadSync app, which allows for smartphone connectivity for navigation and communication. Additionally, it features a spacious 20-liter underseat storage area, adding convenience for daily commuters who may need to carry items such as helmets or other essentials.
Offering a range of 130 km (83 miles) on a single charge, the WN7 is designed for urban and suburban commutes. The bike is equipped with a fixed lithium-ion battery that can be charged through standard home outlets or via CCS2 rapid chargers. A full charge via a household outlet will take under three hours, while rapid charging can replenish the battery from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes, providing convenience for busy users.
Targeting primarily younger riders in urban areas, the WN7 emphasizes practicality, quiet operation, and easy handling. It also incorporates a sound-emitting system to alert pedestrians, aligning with current regulations for electric vehicles.
Production of the WN7 is scheduled to begin later this year at Honda’s facility in Atessa, Italy, and it will qualify for government subsidies available for electric vehicles in several European nations. However, crucial specifications such as top speed, motor power, and battery capacity remain unspecified, making it difficult to fully evaluate the bike’s performance in real-world scenarios.
Despite its release being a milestone in Honda’s electrification strategy, the pricing structure raises concerns. Competitors in the electric motorcycle space offer comparable, if not superior, features at much lower prices. This affordability challenge could hinder the WN7’s market acceptance, prompting potential buyers to consider alternative options.
Although Honda’s brand reputation for reliability and quality may attract some consumers, the WN7’s current specifications and pricing suggest it could struggle to gain traction in a crowded market. Whether the motorcycle’s unveiling marks a success for Honda or a missed opportunity for riders remains to be seen.
The content above is a summary. For more details, see the source article.
