The Revival of a Classic
Remember the iconic Honda Motocompo from the 80s, the foldable scooter designed to fit in the trunk of a hatchback? Well, it’s back, but this time in an electric avatar, and it goes by the name “Motocompacto.”
Compact and Portable Design
In its folded state, the Motocompacto resembles nothing more than a suitcase on wheels, measuring a mere 29 inches in length and 21 inches in height. Its compact size was a key factor in its past popularity, despite its brief stint in Japanese automotive production.
The 21st Century Motocompacto
For the modern era, this peppy urban commuter retains its lightweight frame while embracing some improvements. Weighing in at 41 pounds, the Motocompacto falls into the same weight class as regular bicycles. However, its compact size does come with limitations, including a modest range of 12 miles on a single 3.5-hour charge. On the plus side, it features a convenient 110V outlet for easy charging from any household socket.
Ideal for Short Trips
The Motocompacto’s concept remains rooted in its portability, fitting snugly in your car’s trunk for short trips. Its front-wheel drive motor generates 490W, making it capable of handling hilly terrain. While its top speed of 15-18 mph may not be the fastest among electric scooters, it serves its purpose well. The dashboard includes two power levels, a digital speedometer, and battery level indicators.
Safety and Durability
According to Nick Ziraldo, project lead and design engineering unit leader at Honda Development and Manufacturing of America, the Motocompacto is not only easy to use and enjoyable to ride but also designed with safety, durability, and security in mind. It features a robust heat-treated aluminum frame, LED headlights and taillights, side reflectors, and a welded steel lock loop on the kickstand compatible with most bike locks.
Affordable and Accessible
The Motocompacto is expected to be priced at around $995 and will hit the market in November. Prospective buyers can place orders online or purchase through Honda or Acura dealerships.
