Tag Archives: electric vehicles

Pininfarina’s latest Electric SUV has a 692-mile maximum range… and a strangely familiar name

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Meet the Polestones 01. Not to be confused with the Volvo-owned EV marque Polestar, this particular brand of electric vehicles comes from China… Shanghai, specifically. The Polestones 01’s design can be credited to the iconic automotive design outfit Pininfarina’s Shanghai branch. The Polestones 01’s design takes on the visage of a Land Rover Defender-esque 7-seater SUV, but boasts a few clever features like dual-axle electric powertrains that get further supplemented by a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine. Clearly designed for outdoor-enthusiasts with range-anxiety, the Polestones 01 has a ‘claimed’ maximum range of 692 miles when supplemented by the petrol engine, and boasts a complete outdoor kitchen built into its tailgate, along with a fold-out gazebo that I genuinely hope becomes a standard fixture in SUVs and Pickups moving forward…

Designer: Pininfarina Shanghai

Let’s cut to the chase: The Polestones 01 isn’t shy about its ambitions. Designed by the renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina, this seven-seat behemoth marries the classic boxy aesthetics with modern technology. With two length options, accommodating either six or seven passengers, it caters to both family outings and adventure-seekers. At its heart lies a range-extender powertrain, a symphony of two electric motors harmonizing with a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine. The result? A robust 350kW of power and 740Nm of torque, capable of propelling the 01 from 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in a mere 5.5 seconds. While its electric-only range stands at 234km (145 miles), invoke the petrol engine, and you’re looking at a staggering 1113km (692 miles) journey.

A comprehensive array of six cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and not one, but three LiDAR units stand guard, ensuring a secure and informed drive. This level of detail extends to its suppliers as well; industry giants like Bosch, CATL, Continental, Valeo, and of course, Pininfarina, have all played a part in bringing this vision to life.

But here’s where it gets deliciously interesting: the Polestones 01 features a camper-van style kitchen right in its tailgate. You’ve got a deployable kitchen neatly tucked in the tailgate, complete with an induction cooktop and water dispenser, all shielded by a fold-out gazebo. Inside, the six-seat variant boasts individually reclining seats and a roof-mounted dropdown screen, transforming the cabin into a mobile lounge. Opt for the seven-seater, and you’re treated to a transformational space that converts into a king-sized bed.

The dual-infotainment system separates function from recreation, allowing the driver to focus on the details that matter, and a larger screen for the rear occupants to enjoy a nice movie while on a long roadtrip.

Yet, for all its grandeur, the Polestones 01 doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It enters a market increasingly enamored with the boxy, rugged charm of vehicles like the Land Rover Defender. It joins the ranks of other Chinese contenders like the Tank 300 and Haval Raptor, each vying for a piece of the global automotive pie. However, what sets it apart is that bold blend of classic design, cutting-edge technology, an unapologetic nod to luxury that might just turn heads and shift perceptions of Chinese automotive innovation, and that fold-out gazebo that gets extra points for creativity. As it gears up for its debut, the industry watches with bated breath, wondering whether this blend of old-school charm and new-age tech will resonate with the global consumer.

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This utilitarian electric scooter is economical and faster way to move cargo in urban locales

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As businesses are shifting focus from more polluting and space-consuming cargo vans and cars to cargo-hauling bikes for the last-mile approach, there is a huge demand for better options. Tapping on the opportunity, a Vancouver-based startup is designing what it calls the Scootility – precisely a portmanteau of scooter and utility. A reasonable and compact alternative for last-mile delivery; the cargo-hauling Scootility is for now in the prototype stage with production to begin in the next 12 months.

Given its unique design, the Scootility is not another electric bike. In fact, it draws design inspiration from a segway with a column handle for maneuvering it. By virtue, however, it is an electric scooter that allows the rider to stand up and ride while the cargo remains intact in the covered box right in front of the eyes.

Designer: Scootility

In the design then, a lockable cargo box with a standard load-bearing capacity of 140 liters is the biggest takeaway. This weatherproof box becomes even more beneficial for the delivery guy with the swappable feature. The cargo box can be taken off and replaced with a swappable option on the fly minimizing time between pickup and delivery.

The e-scooter with its compact size and narrow footprint in the traffic, can also be used for delivering medication or supplies in affected areas where access to other forms of transport may be hindered. Interestingly, Scootility has full suspension and wheels measuring 16-inches on the front and 13-inches on the back. The smaller wheel size allows more space for a cargo box on this scooter with utility as its basis over a simple mode of commutation.

For the safety of the rider, it’s installed with LED lighting and has a small turning radius, the manufacturer claims. A foldable leg rest of the Scootility can double as a glove compartment, and the long steering column and handle can fold down for easy storage. Powered by a swappable lithium battery offering a 100 km range in the standard variant, the Scootility is easier to ride (no license needed) and more economical (as opposed to cargo e-bikes on the market).

Since Scootility is only raising funding for its utility scooter at the moment, there is no definite word on the retail price. Given its benefits of minimum parking space requirement, swappable cargo box and battery, and substantial drive range, we are sure many businesses already have their eyes out for the Scootility.

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80% smaller than the average car: This Compact EV seats 2 people and fits into tight parking spots

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Motorcycles are agile but don’t have the conveniences a car offers. Cars have roofs, storage space, and are more stable, but they aren’t as compact as motorcycles. Granstudio’s vision for Komma, a Swiss-based mobility startup, was to blur the line between the two. The Komma UMV is unique in that it borrows the best bits from a car and a motorcycle. For all intents and purposes, it looks and feels like a car, with four wheels, a roof, doors, and even a boot to store luggage. However, it’s no wider than a motorcycle, making it 80% smaller than most cars, run on 66% less energy, and have all the safety features of a car, from seatbelts to airbags.

Designer: Granstudio

The Komma UMV is entirely a new category of vehicle, borrowing the best bits from cars, motorbikes, ATVs, and even the Asian TukTuks. It prioritizes efficiency without compromising on mobility and rider comfort, and when it does make trade-offs, it does so in a way that really feels like features. For example, it might be smaller than a car, but its slim format allows it to weave between traffic and park in even the tightest spaces without breaking a sweat.

“In the studio, we focus on both designing cars and developing mobility plans for future cities. However, when we try to combine these two aspects, something doesn’t quite fit,” say the designers at GranStudio “This is particularly evident in Europe, where it is clear that the ideal city we envision for the future prioritizes the quality of public spaces and community values. It is a city where cars do not naturally belong and are out of context.”

In scaling the car down to this two-seater format, the math adds up to some real savings for both the rider and the planet. The Komma UMV is 80% smaller than your average car and has a 70% reduced ecological footprint. It consumes 66% less energy than a car, which translates to 70% lower operational and fuel costs than your regular gas-powered vehicle. All that really makes a difference in the grand scheme of things, making the Komma UMV perfect for single-person or two-person rides.

That being said, the UMV has all the benefits of a car. It runs on four wheels that employ a unique hydraulic tilting system for stability, but also enable tighter turns, just like a motorcycle. You’ve got a 4WD system, suspension, anti-collision protocols, and an anti-lock braking system. The car also comes with doors, a roof, seatbelts, airbags, and its occupants don’t need helmets. The windshield has airbags, and the UMV has storage space in both the front as well as the boot, offering much more storage space than a two-wheeler. Given its width constraint and hydraulic tilting system, it uses handlebars, which seem to be the only actual remnant left behind from the motorcycling world, along with the seating format where the passenger sits right behind the rider.

Komma offers a transformative vision for urban environments, placing a strong emphasis on enhancing the quality of public spaces and nurturing community values. By reducing the dominance of automobiles (or at least the space occupied by them), Komma paves the way for a more harmonious coexistence with nature, creating abundant room for leisure pursuits, and fostering vibrant social interactions. This shift in perspective not only redefines the city but also revitalizes it, making it a place where people and nature thrive together.

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Xiaomi SU7 Steals the Spotlight in EV Market amid dwindling ‘Apple Car’ Rumors

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It seems like Apple just needs to hint at building something and the tech world practically coalesces towards realizing that vision. Apple had to merely hire YSL’s former boss to create rumors around a fashion-focused wearable and Samsung scrambled to launch their Galaxy Watch. The company hinted at AR/VR being their future and Facebook literally rebranded to Meta to bet on that vision. Now, after years of Apple Car ‘leaks and rumors’, Xiaomi is beating the Cupertino giant to the punch by announcing the SU7, their first EV.

Designer: Xiaomi

The SU7 hasn’t formally been announced by Xiaomi yet, but images of the car were released to the public by China’s government regulatory agency, accompanied by various technical details of the car’s design and capabilities. This move shouldn’t come as a surprise to keen-eyed folk in the tech world, given that Xiaomi’s actually made electric scooters in the past under its Mijia sub-brand. In fact, it’s been Xiaomi’s endeavor to make practically every product possible, given that their name means ‘little rice’, a call-back to a Buddhist concept of starting small and working your way up to the top.

The recently unveiled SU7 is shaping up to be a formidable entrant in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Although Xiaomi is the brand behind this vehicle, the actual manufacturing will be done by Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. (BAIC), a state-owned enterprise in China. This collaboration is a strategic step for Xiaomi, venturing into new territory while leveraging BAIC’s manufacturing expertise.

Design-wise, the SU7 is positioned to compete with the likes of the Tesla Model S, featuring a 118″ wheelbase and a fastback roofline, though with a faux-hatch trunk. Its overall length is comparable to the Model S, falling short by less than 30mm, aiming to appeal to the Chinese market’s preference for long-wheelbase luxury sedans​.

The SU7 will be available in multiple variants, including a single-motor rear-wheel-drive version producing around 295 hp and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version with an impressive 663 hp. The vehicles differ in weight and battery technology, with the premium model featuring a nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery, contrasting with the more affordable variant’s lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. The high-end model is also expected to have a 100kWh battery and an 800-Volt architecture. In addition, some models will sport a conspicuous lidar array on the roof, indicating advanced driver assistance and potential autonomy features​.

Xiaomi’s ambition with the SU7 extends beyond just manufacturing a luxury EV. The car is expected to feature Xiaomi-developed in-car software, potentially integrating with its vast ecosystem of gadgets and services. However, the extent of this integration and whether it will be globally applicable or mainly focused on the Chinese market remains to be seen.

Oddly enough, Xiaomi isn’t the first tech company to foray into the EV space. Back in 2020, Sony turned heads by revealing the Mission S, its first automotive concept with self-driving features. While the Mission S, as impressive as it was, was intended to just be a proof of concept, Xiaomi’s SU7 EV will actually see the light of day, following approval from the Chinese government regulatory agency. As for the car’s global availability, it’s uncertain if Xiaomi plans to market the SU7 outside China. The brand has a substantial presence in Asia and Europe, particularly in the value segment, which might not align with the luxury EV market. However, the SU7 could signify a shift in the broader market narrative, influencing other technology companies to explore vehicle manufacturing, especially as the global smartphone market reaches a saturation point.

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This Dirt Bike for Children packs a 1000W motor for ‘Parent-Approved’ Biking Thrill

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Kids love playing grown-up. You’ve got toy cars, toy mobile phones, and toy bricks that you can build into a variety of things – the world is condensed down into playable toys that help kids learn, grow, and mimic the adults they see on a daily basis. The Z56 isn’t one of those things. Calling the Z56 a toy would be foolish, just because of how incredibly fleshed-out it is. Designed as a proper dirt bike, but for kids, the Z56 isn’t about mimicking grown-ups, it’s about literally stepping into their shoes, or their saddles. Imagined as a ridable vehicle for children aged 6-11, the Z56 is a concept that marries the nostalgia of traditional dirt bike aesthetics with the sleekness of modern design, all packaged into a two-wheeler that’s built for young riding enthusiasts.

Designers: Zukun Design Studio & Matt Barnum

One of the core design philosophies behind the Z56 is its blend of classic motorsport aesthetics with a modern twist. Unlike many futuristic concepts that diverge significantly from traditional design, making them less relatable, the Z56 strikes a balance. It retains recognizable elements of dirt bikes, such as their rugged, adventurous look, while infusing clean, streamlined design elements that are practically synonymous with electric vehicles today. “Current dirt bike design trends seem hell-bent on adding excessive styling lines and graphics, and many future-vision concepts alienate consumers by deviating so far from the norm that they sacrifice reliability,” the designers mentioned, highlighting their objective to stay away from such practices. “By blending classic motorsport style with sophisticated, modern lines and forms, Z56 points toward a cleaner, simpler, and more efficient future.”

At the heart of the Z56 concept lies its 10Ah 56-volt power source, a central feature that’s boldly highlighted rather than hidden, signaling a proud departure from the internal combustion engines of old. This design choice not only emphasizes the bike’s electric nature but also celebrates the shift away from petroleum dependence. The bike’s electric identity is further reinforced by its performance capabilities: equipped with a maintenance-free 1000-watt DC brushless motor, the Z56 promises ample torque and instant acceleration, ensuring a spirited yet manageable ride for young enthusiasts.

The battery life of this conceptual bike is impressive, offering about an hour of riding time on a single charge, with the added convenience of a one-hour recharge period. The possibility of swapping in a second battery for continuous, all-day riding is a thoughtful touch, showcasing the practicality embedded in this futuristic vision. The lightweight lithium pack not only contributes to the bike’s efficiency but also enhances its agility, making it easier to handle and more enjoyable to ride.

The bike operates noiselessly and emission-free, opening up new riding territories previously off-limits to gas-powered bikes. This aspect not only makes the Z56 a more environmentally friendly option but also a more versatile and accessible one, free from the constraints of noise and pollution regulations. The lack of oil and gas requirements further simplifies ownership and transport, underscoring the bike’s user-friendly nature.

The Z56 Dirt Bike Concept by Zukun Design Studio is more than a children’s toy; it’s a glimpse into a future where the thrill of motorsports coexists with sustainability and environmental consciousness. By marrying traditional design elements with modern, eco-friendly technology, the Z56 presents a vision of a world where fun, performance, and responsibility go hand in hand. Sure, it’s merely conceptual for now, but we’d love to see some prototypes test-driven by kids on the slopes. I imagine concerned parents would have an entirely different reaction, though…

The post This Dirt Bike for Children packs a 1000W motor for ‘Parent-Approved’ Biking Thrill first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Dirt Bike for Children packs a 1000W motor for ‘Parent-Approved’ Biking Thrill

Posted on by

Kids love playing grown-up. You’ve got toy cars, toy mobile phones, and toy bricks that you can build into a variety of things – the world is condensed down into playable toys that help kids learn, grow, and mimic the adults they see on a daily basis. The Z56 isn’t one of those things. Calling the Z56 a toy would be foolish, just because of how incredibly fleshed-out it is. Designed as a proper dirt bike, but for kids, the Z56 isn’t about mimicking grown-ups, it’s about literally stepping into their shoes, or their saddles. Imagined as a ridable vehicle for children aged 6-11, the Z56 is a concept that marries the nostalgia of traditional dirt bike aesthetics with the sleekness of modern design, all packaged into a two-wheeler that’s built for young riding enthusiasts.

Designers: Zukun Design Studio & Matt Barnum

One of the core design philosophies behind the Z56 is its blend of classic motorsport aesthetics with a modern twist. Unlike many futuristic concepts that diverge significantly from traditional design, making them less relatable, the Z56 strikes a balance. It retains recognizable elements of dirt bikes, such as their rugged, adventurous look, while infusing clean, streamlined design elements that are practically synonymous with electric vehicles today. “Current dirt bike design trends seem hell-bent on adding excessive styling lines and graphics, and many future-vision concepts alienate consumers by deviating so far from the norm that they sacrifice reliability,” the designers mentioned, highlighting their objective to stay away from such practices. “By blending classic motorsport style with sophisticated, modern lines and forms, Z56 points toward a cleaner, simpler, and more efficient future.”

At the heart of the Z56 concept lies its 10Ah 56-volt power source, a central feature that’s boldly highlighted rather than hidden, signaling a proud departure from the internal combustion engines of old. This design choice not only emphasizes the bike’s electric nature but also celebrates the shift away from petroleum dependence. The bike’s electric identity is further reinforced by its performance capabilities: equipped with a maintenance-free 1000-watt DC brushless motor, the Z56 promises ample torque and instant acceleration, ensuring a spirited yet manageable ride for young enthusiasts.

The battery life of this conceptual bike is impressive, offering about an hour of riding time on a single charge, with the added convenience of a one-hour recharge period. The possibility of swapping in a second battery for continuous, all-day riding is a thoughtful touch, showcasing the practicality embedded in this futuristic vision. The lightweight lithium pack not only contributes to the bike’s efficiency but also enhances its agility, making it easier to handle and more enjoyable to ride.

The bike operates noiselessly and emission-free, opening up new riding territories previously off-limits to gas-powered bikes. This aspect not only makes the Z56 a more environmentally friendly option but also a more versatile and accessible one, free from the constraints of noise and pollution regulations. The lack of oil and gas requirements further simplifies ownership and transport, underscoring the bike’s user-friendly nature.

The Z56 Dirt Bike Concept by Zukun Design Studio is more than a children’s toy; it’s a glimpse into a future where the thrill of motorsports coexists with sustainability and environmental consciousness. By marrying traditional design elements with modern, eco-friendly technology, the Z56 presents a vision of a world where fun, performance, and responsibility go hand in hand. Sure, it’s merely conceptual for now, but we’d love to see some prototypes test-driven by kids on the slopes. I imagine concerned parents would have an entirely different reaction, though…

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Lexus Unveils Luxury EV With Prismatic Batteries that gives it a Stunning 620 Mile Range

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Lexus unveiled new EVs and tech at the Japan Motor Show… but its LF-ZC concept stole the limelight with its whopping 620-mile range thanks to Lexus’ latest innovations in Prismatic Battery Technology. That’s DOUBLE the range of the Tesla Model 3, giving you an EV that you can practically drive from New York to Detroit on a single charge.

The Lexus LF-ZC, which stands for “Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst,” is a four-door luxury car that the company plans to use as a basis for its future cars. Underneath the LF-ZC’s hood is Lexus’ highly anticipated solid state ‘prismatic’ battery technology which will make its way into Lexus’ automobiles as early as 2026, with lofty promises of a 1000-kilometer range on a full charge.

Designer: Lexus

The LF-ZC showcases a sleek, low-hanging roofline that gracefully flows from the hood to the rear, culminating in a design that blends elegance with modernity. The elongated windshield stretches over the front passengers, granting them an expansive field of vision. Remarkably, the LF-ZC shares a similar length with the iconic Prius from Lexus’ parent company Toyota, measuring 187 inches, just a whisker longer than the Prius at 181.1 inches.

In terms of size, the LF-ZC also falls in line with the Tesla Model 3, making it a true competitor in the segment. Its range and size aside, the LF-ZC’s eye-catching faceted design is sure to turn heads and elicit a couple of wows and more than its fair share of selfies. Its aesthetic appeal, combined with Toyota’s new battery tech, places it firmly in the spotlight.

The underlying Prismatic Battery tech’s impressive range is also vastly enhanced by just how aerodynamic the LF-ZC is. With an impressive approximate drag coefficient of 0.2, the LF-ZC outshines its electrical rival, the Model 3, which has a drag coefficient of 0.208. This bolsters the LF-ZC’s efficiency and ability to glide smoothly across roads with zero range anxiety. Toyota’s DIRECT4 AWD and smooth Steer-by-Wire systems further enhance the LF-ZC’s driving capabilities.

Beyond its striking design and aerodynamic prowess, Toyota is implementing its Tesla-beating gigacasting method to lower production costs, and the LF-ZC will be powered by the all-new dedicated “Arene OS” software platform. This platform not only facilitates advanced safety features but also enables seamless over-the-air updates. The spacious infotainment screen, strategically positioned for passenger convenience, hosts a myriad of multimedia features.

While passengers revel in the entertainment, the driver’s domain is equally impressive. Control screens on both sides of the steer-by-wire yoke provide intuitive command, complemented by an instrument panel and heads-up display. Furthermore, the LF-ZC introduces an AI-powered “butler” that responds to voice commands, offers directions, and adapts the drive mode based on driving patterns and mood.

The LF-ZC also boasts sustainability features, such as the Bamboo CMF (Color, Material, Finish) concept, which combines fast growth, significant CO2 absorption capacity, and enduring beauty. It’s a nod to Toyota’s commitment to eco-conscious design.

In addition to the LF-ZC, Lexus has teased an LF-ZL SUV concept, which is expected to be the pinnacle of its electric vehicle strategy. While the release date remains a mystery, it’s clear that Toyota is making bold strides in the world of electric mobility.

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This all roader DeLorean packs power with 4×4 drivetrain and kills with its sharp looks

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DeLorean DMC 12 is a cult favorite even after so many iconic cars have made their presence felt and then faded away eventually. The rear-engine two-passenger sports car spiced up the early 80s with its futuristic appeal but couldn’t manage to survive in the closely contested power domination landscape owing to its underpowered engine.

The company revived this nostalgic ride after decades of anticipation as an electric avatar last year with production promised for 2024. That gives concept designers yet another chance to muster up their imagination of a DeLorean with a refreshing new perspective.

Designer: Jeremy Dodd

Look at this imaginative concept that pits the sports car against the rugged terrain with a makeover. Dubbed the DeLorean All Roader, this is also an electric version but with some modifications to the original’s blueprint to appeal to the adventurous kind. The 4×4 drivetrain makes it capable enough to venture on the dirt tracks, but the ride hide makes me believe otherwise.

Jeremy has reinterpreted the original to have roof rails for carrying your skis in winter or loading other adventure gear that fits. The engine sits on the rear and the front hood has ample space to stash luggage and trip essentials so that the interiors can be used just for relaxing when parked. That rear windshield flows down to make space for an extra wheel carrier, and to be frank, it adds character to this DeLorean’s rear profile.

The front grille section has been modernized with sharp LED headlights and the rear follows suit with peppy taillights. Overall aesthetics have the sharpness balanced down by the white paint job. The black rims add contrast to the look, but as I earlier, the ride height needs to be increased with dampers if you want to confidently take it on rough roads.

Compared to the upcoming Alpha 5 – that’s got a very boxy, contoured profile – this one retains the original’s DNA in a subtle way. I would any day choose this personality of a DeLorean over the inevitable Alpha 5 that’s going to look like any other sports car out there.

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Nissan 20-23 concept is an electric hot hatch for city speed demons

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Making an electric car boxy without drifting away from the idea of lending it a futuristic look takes a special skill set. That’s what Nissan has achieved with its new Concept 20-23, designed to be a fun city electric car that you’d want to “drive every day in London,” as Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan’s senior vice president for global design, put it.

He also emphasized the fact that the concept is inspired by the online racing world. To sum it up, the electric hatchback is the perfect intersection of modern city living, online gaming and zero-emission mobility. The car is a true reflection of the “Nissan Ambition 2030 target of introducing 27 electrified vehicles by the year 2030. THe Japanese automotive giant also plans to have solid-state batteries in all its EVs by 2028, thereby achieving a 65 percent reduction in the cost of energy storage.

Designer: Nissan

The electric hot hatch, crafted to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Nissan Design Europe, is fitted with an all-electric powertrain with the option to drive it in both urban and sporty modes. Formula-1 influence of the Concept 20-23 is evident as soon as you step inside via the scissor doors. White bucket seats and the square steering wheel mounted on a carbon fiber column indicate Nissan’s intent to pitch the EV to speed addicts. The minimalist interior enhances the concept’s distraction-free aesthetic, focused on just pushing the foot to the metal.

The aggressive aero styling radiates the sporty character of the concept amplified by the semi-circular dissected headlights and the taillights. Sporty elements like the huge rear lip spoiler, wide arches and the roof scoop feeding air add cool factor to the cute little sexy thing. If ever Mini Cooper would ever get some serious competition from an EV or any hatchback, this would be it.

For now, Nissan has no plans of pushing the Concept 20-23 into the production lines. However, we want to see this baby roll on the streets, given its killer sharp looks fused perfectly with the sumptuous contours where required. Hone its torque, gear ratios and power delivery capabilities, and motorheads have got a winning hatchback in proposition.

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Honda reincarnates 80s Motocompo into electrified Motocompacto for modern city dwellers

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Remember the cute little Honda Motocompo from the 80s designed to fit in the boot of a hatchback? The scooter is making a comeback in electric form and it’s called the Motocompacto.

In the folded configuration, the ride looks nothing more than a suitcase with wheels, measuring just 29 inches in length and 21 inches in height. Probably, the reason it was hugely popular even though it had a very short stint at the Japanese automotive production lines.

Designer: Honda

For the 21st century, the peppy commuter targeted at urban users comes with some improvements and maintains the same lightweight frame as its predecessor. To be precise, the Motocompacto weighs 41 pounds, the same class as regular bikes. That small and compact form factor comes with its set of limitations such as the measly range of 12 miles on a single charge of 3.5 hours. The silver lining though, it has a charger-ready 110V outlet, so you can plug it into any household outlet.

The ingrained idea of a Motocompo is to take it along in your car’s boot and only use it for short trips. The front-wheel drive motor of the Motocompacto delivers 490W, making the last-mile ride capable enough of climbing hills. The top speed of 15-18 mph isn’t top-notch when compared to other electric scooters, but it solves the purpose nonetheless. On the dashboard, there are two power levels, a digital speedometer and battery level indicators.

Nick Ziraldo, project lead and design engineering unit leader at Honda Development and Manufacturing of America, “Motocompacto is easy to use and fun to ride, but was also designed with safety, durability, and security in mind. It uses a robust heat-treated aluminum frame and wheels, bright LED headlight and taillight, side reflectors, and a welded steel lock loop on the kickstand that is compatible with most bike locks.”

The Motocompacto is going to be priced around $995 and will be available in November. Interested buyers can either place the order online or buy via the Honda or Acura dealerships.

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