EICMA 2024
Is the Honda V3 Set to Redefine the Internal Combustion Engine?
This year, Milan’s EICMA event celebrates an amazing 110 years of showcasing the world of two wheels. The event is one of the most important motorcycle shows on the European calendar.
EICMA allows worldwide manufacturers to unveil their latest projects. What’s more, the event continues to give the motorcycling world its first look at some of the most iconic bikes ever to grace the road. The impressive list of motorcycles spans decades and includes the genre-creating CB750, GL1000, CBR900 Fireblade, CBX1000, and VFR1200 DCT.
So it will come as no surprise that Honda chose EICMA 2024 to reveal its most controversial concept motorcycle to date; the V3. The concept engine is a 75-degree V configuration, three-cylinder unit. Two cylinders face forward with the third facing back. As interesting as this layout is, it isn’t the first time Honda has travelled along this path.
In 1983, the MVX250 (a water-cooled V3) aimed predominantly at the Japanese home market hit the streets. In 1985 the better-known NS400R made its way to European shores.
A Motorcycle World First
Both production models were two-strokes. Yet, Honda’s latest concept engine is undeniably 4-stroke. The new engine also features the world’s first motorcycle, forced induction, electric compressor.
The compressor works by controlling the air intake regardless of engine speed. This feature means that high levels of instantly responsive torque are delivered even from low rpm.
Moreover, when it comes to layout the lightweight compact electric compressor allows for a high degree of latitude A major plus on the limited space available on a motorcycle. In yet another twist, the compressor doesn’t require an intercooler to reduce the temperature of the compressed air before combustion.
This fact and the compressor’s versatility of location means that designers and engineers can focus on creating a more centralised mass. One of the major factors needed if exceptional handling qualities are also a requirement.
Development of the V3 engine continues towards mass production. The high efficiency, high-output engines will be targetted at mid-size and upwards, displacement motorcycles.
The emphasis is on producing engines that develop large amounts of power without relying on increased cubic capacity. The compact engine’s ability to present a slim frontal profile also means that it is ideal for several various platforms across the range.
New Lease of Life for the Internal Combustion Engine
As more European cities limit usage of ICU-based vehicles within green zones,
the silent march towards electric vehicles is inevitable.
Commuters may be happy to embrace electric scooters for their urban needs but currently, riders of large-capacity ICE motorcycles are not all quite so ready to throw in the towel. The sensual overload and undeniable rush that an internal combustion engine provides is alive and well.
While the trellis frame and curvaceous exhaust may not make it to the production line, the engine should look close to the prototype. The Honda V3 engine is no mock-up either and is already successfully bench-run.
The electric compressor-fed Honda V3 caused a major stir at EICMA 2024. It’s probable it will also give the internal combustion engine a fresh lease of life in 2026 and beyond.
Leading the Charge: Honda Electric Concept Bikes Charge
Honda’s reveal of the forced induction V3 concept engine wasn’t the only motorcycle to turn heads at the recent 2024 EICMA show. Honda also took the opportunity to unveil two new concept electric vehicles. Honda is boldly laying out its plans for both its products and corporate activities.
It plans carbon neutrality for its motorcycles by the 2040s. This goal will see the production of electric motorcycles making up the mainstay of the company’s future environmental strategy.
The immediate aim though, is to introduce 10 new electric motorcycles by the end of 2025. This figure will increase to 30 electric models globally by 2030. An audacious plan, but one Honda has already initiated, with the launch of the EM1 e: moped in 2023. This EV was followed up by the announcement of the all-new CUV e: a full-size electric scooter with the equivalent power output of a 125cc internal combustion engine.
The two electric vehicles in the spotlight at EICMA 24 are the new sports EV Fun Concept and the EV Urban Concept. Both vehicles show Honda’s increased efforts in developing a full lineup of electric motorcycles. These will meet the diversifying needs of future riders. Honda is the world’s leading manufacturer of internal combustion engine motorcycles. It aims to duplicate this success in the field of electric motorcycles.
EV Fun Concept
The EV Fun Concept motorcycle breaks new ground as Honda’s first foray into the electric sports bike category. The development focus is to create a next-generation electric motorcycle that celebrates the sensation of quiet riding. The EV Fun Concept will also embrace the distinctive emotional vibe that is unique to electric motorcycles.
As the builder of some of the world’s best handling and equipped motorcycles, the EV FC will feature the premium cycle parts needed for optimum riding,
turning, and stopping.
The quiet, vibration-free ride that’s unique to EVs together with the fixed shape of the power source, requires a new type of slim chassis package. These factors add up to a motorcycle that aims to provide a unique emotional riding experience. It's one which Honda believes will enhance the customer's motorcycle lifestyle.
Tapping into technology Honda developed for automotive use, the EV FC’s
battery is compatible with CCS2 quick charging systems. It will be possible to use
commercial car charging facilities and should provide a cruising range of over
100km. The EV Fun Concept sports bike is due to go on sale in 2025.
EV Urban Concept
The zero-emission urban transport sector is where the electric bike will first establish itself. To bring fresh ideas to the table, rather than re-style a current model scooter, Honda is reimagining the concept from scratch.
The EV Urban Concept embodies Honda’s vision of future mobility. This vehicle will be the interaction point between man and machine, visible in the bike’s styling and intuitive Human-Machine Interface.
The EV Urban Concept aims to create new riding experiences from the fusion of software and hardware. Honda believes it will provide the freedom of mobility to all.
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