I recently had the opportunity to test drive Honda’s innovative Motocompacto, a sleek, battery-powered suitcase with wheels capable of reaching a modest 15 mph top speed, accompanied by a charmingly melodious bell that has undoubtedly become my absolute favourite feature. Despite some reservations, the Motocompacto’s greatest asset appears to be its undeniable portability.
The electric successor to the pioneering 1983 Honda Motocompacto, which revolutionized transportation with its diminutive gasoline engine and innovative design allowing it to fit snugly within an automobile’s trunk. In urban environments where parking proximity was not a concern, the innovative Motocompacto solution allowed users to park at a distance and then deploy the foldable scooter from the rear of their vehicle, conveniently reaching their destination on two wheels.
Specs
- : High-Power Synchronous DC Motor – 250W Everlasting Magnet Design with Peak Power Output Reaching 490W
- : 11.8 lb.-ft./16 Nm
- : single rear drum brake
- : 3.5 hours (110v)
While boasting a range of up to 12 miles, a 0-15 mph acceleration time of seven seconds, and a 490W entrance wheel motor, it’s unlikely that this mode of transportation will revolutionize your daily commute; nonetheless, you’ll certainly arrive at your destination with a touch of flair. During my brief visit to Westside Park in NYC, I garnered numerous inquiries and comments from passersby regarding the Motocompacto, which is understandable given that I was operating an unconventional vehicle resembling a sleek, feature-rich suitcase on wheels.
The foldable electric vehicle weighs approximately 41.3 pounds, easily compressing into a compact, portable unit that can be stored behind a car or in a small closet. At $995, Honda’s innovative vehicle is ideally suited for urban commutes or campus transportation for students, offering an affordable solution for those seeking convenience without breaking the bank.
Despite underwhelming specifications and a modest 6.8Ah battery capacity, I am compelled to support this endeavour for a specific purpose. The thrill of craving midnight sustenance, only to have the convenience of a nearby grocery store and a Motocompacto at your beckoning call? It’s almost as if the stars align in perfect harmony, granting you the freedom to indulge without so much as breaking stride. The diminutive yet charming appearance of the car could significantly facilitate its acceptance when parked beside a subway platform or a moderately occupied shopping mall, thus rendering it less conspicuous and more easily tolerated.
With no margin for error, tiny tires, and an elevated handlebar, the fastest speed at which I’d genuinely feel comfortable operating the Motocompacto would be around 15 miles per hour. While the car boasts impressive features such as personalized settings for lighting and driving modes accessible via a mobile app, it remains a straightforward and uncomplicated vehicle, with handling consistent with its down-to-earth nature. The scooter’s propulsion relies exclusively on the electric motor housed within its front wheel, while braking capabilities are limited to a single, traditional rear drum brake. To enhance security, you also possess a bell, a valuable tool within the security and grandeur department that serves as a trusted point of connection.
On the scale, Honda neatly contained the specifications within a compact package, with its width measuring precisely 3.7 inches in its stowed position, folding down to a manageable 29 inches in length and reaching a maximum height of 21 inches.
The folding and unfolding process was surprisingly effortless, taking less than 30 seconds to complete once mastered, with the initial attempts requiring only a short learning curve before becoming second nature. The process of folding and unfolding seems manageable enough for use on-the-go or on a practice station platform.
When fully deployed, you’ll find that the vehicle boasts two distinct operating modes. You’ll operate at a maximum speed of 10 mph when using Mode One, and must initiate transfers by kicking off. In contrast, Mode Two allows for unrestricted acceleration, permitting you to accelerate as desired.
I’m still surprised when I recall being instructed about the existence of a space to store documents while driving. Positioned discreetly between the handlebars and seat, this compact storage space offers ample room to stow a variety of essentials, including snacks, laptops, and notebooks. You can even maintain the charger that recharges the battery in approximately three and a half hours. Given the device’s versatility and unobtrusive design, it may be much easier to discreetly bring it indoors to quickly calculate totals at a restaurant, office, or building lobby.
With its construct high-quality, I was thoroughly pleased to discover that it boasted subtle yet refined features, such as the synthetic leather handlebar grips and seat, complemented by a sleek digital speedometer. One significant advantage of the Motocompacto is its user-friendly design, making it accessible to a wide range of users, while also being easily repairable to minimize downtime and maintenance costs. This automobile’s charming nature and enjoyment factor are undeniable, but its exceptional build quality and DIY repair capabilities are equally impressive features that effectively offset the premium price tag.
When purchasing the Motocompacto, prospective buyers can now place orders through participating Honda or Acura dealerships or online, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $995.
Electrek’s take:
While the Motocompacto may not dominate the last-mile commuting market, it could revolutionize luggage transportation with its innovative design as a wheeled suitcase.
While the steep price tag and unimpressive specifications make it challenging to view this as a game-changer, that is still Honda’s initial foray into the electric vehicle market, with much more to come.
