Honda's first EV scooter, the CUV e:, has been on sale since June 20th. What is interesting is the subsidy system that is unique to electric motorcycles. In Tokyo, you can receive up to $690.65 in subsidies, and in some cases, you can get a new scooter for the amazing price of $678.22. Let's check out the details.
Honda's second EV for the public road: Could it be the strongest commuter motorcycle in the 50cc class?
Honda has been focusing on EV mobility for a long time, dating back to 1994. After that, while introducing various lineups for business use, the "EM1e:" for the general public was released for the first time in 2023. The CUV e: that has been released this time is the second version, and is characterized by its large size and high power compared to the EM1e:, which was a 50cc class motorcycle.
The motor has a rated output of 0.98kW and a maximum output of 8.2PS, giving it a top speed of 83km/h. The cruising range is about 70km on a full charge (WMTC mode, European specification), and the charging time from a household power source is 6 hours from 0 to 100% and 3 hours from 0 to 75%. In terms of equipment, it has the same convenience as a general scooter, such as a smart key shared with the PCX series, a USB Type-C socket, and a luggage hook, making it highly convenient. In addition, the smartphone linking function "Honda Road Sync", which is also used in large sports models, allows the navigation screen and smartphone information to be displayed on the large 7.0-inch TFT LCD monitor. It is truly a next-generation Class 2 moped.
The new model "CUV E:" was just released in June and is Honda's first 50cc class EV for the public road.
The motor produces 8.2 PS and has a top speed of 83 km. The wheels are 12 inches front and rear.
The 7-inch full-color TFT LCD meter is equipped with a variety of functions, including smartphone linkage and navigation display, thanks to Honda Road Sync.
The highlight is the inclusion of two replaceable Honda Mobile Power Pack e: batteries. This is compatible with the Gachaco service, which is jointly developed by domestic manufacturers including Honda, and can be easily attached and detached to charge at home, and the battery can be replaced at any time at a Gachaco Station. This means you can drive without worrying about charging, and by sharing the battery, you don't have to worry about battery deterioration and disposal, which are problems that come with EVs. Stations are becoming more and more common in Tokyo and Osaka, and there are currently 53 in operation.
The motorcycle uses two Honda Mobile Power Pack e: units for power supply, which means there is little storage space under the seats.
By using the battery station "Gachaco," you can charge the battery on the go.
There are currently 53 Gachaco Stations in operation in Tokyo and Osaka.
EV subsidies make new motorcycles cheap! In Tokyo, you can purchase one for as little as $678.22
Currently, the national and local governments are providing subsidies for the purchase of new motorcycles to promote EVs, and of course the CUV e: is also eligible. The price of the CUV e: is $1382.68 for the body, $752.12 for each battery, and $379.86 for each home charger (two units are required), for a total price of $3646.63. In response, the national government provides a subsidy of $241.73 nationwide. In Tokyo, which is particularly generous in EV subsidies, you can receive a whopping $1326.05 in subsidies for the body, battery, and charger, which means you can get a complete CUV e: set for just $2320.58, which is surprising.
If your "Gachaco" is coming up, you can use Gachaco's subscription service to purchase just the body and operate it. If you live in Tokyo, you can get started for as low as $678.22, which is also heavily subsidized by subsidies. To use the Gachaco subscription, you will need to pay for battery rental and electricity separately, but there is also a subsidy of $9.67 x 36 months, which is about $345.32.
Normally, the list price is $3646.63 for the motorcycle itself, two batteries, and two chargers. However, EV subsidies are helping to make it cheaper to purchase.
In Tokyo, in addition to national subsidies, local government subsidies of up to $1326.05 are available, lowering the barrier to entry.
EVs are somewhat different from conventional gasoline motorcycles in terms of charger installation and riding range, but the CUV e:'s linkage with the Gachaco makes it undoubtedly much easier for users to use. If you can get a good deal by taking advantage of subsidies, it will be very attractive as a city commuter. We hope to see even more improvements in usability through the addition of accessory parts and the development of variations in the future.
The CUV e: is now available with a wide range of convenient accessories, so it will be useful in many urban areas.
CUV e: (2025) Main Specifications
・Overall Length x Width x Height: 1970 x 675 x 1100mm
・Wheelbase: 1310mm
・Seat Height: 766mm
・Vehicle Weight: 120kg
・Motor: DC Brushless Motor
・Rated Output: 0.98kW (Class 2 50cc)
・Maximum Output: 8.2PS/3500rpm
・Maximum Torque: 2.2kg-m/2300rpm
・Range: 80.7km
・Brakes: Front Disc, Rear Drum
・Tires: Front 100/90-12, Rear 100/90-12
・Price: $1382.68 (Body only)
