Meet Honda’s latest masterpiece, the Motocompacto—a foldable electric scooter designed to seamlessly complement the upcoming Prologue and Acura ZDX electric vehicles, along with Honda’s current lineup of combustion cars. Positioned as a “zero-emissions micro-mobility solution,” the Motocompacto gracefully steps into the limelight, navigating those tricky transportation gaps where traditional cars falter.
Envision the last mile between the train station and the office or the bustling urban areas with limited parking—the Motocompacto effortlessly glides into these spaces with style and efficiency. However, what truly sets the Honda Motocompacto apart is the sheer joy it brings, both in the thrill of the ride and the delightful transformation between its scooter and briefcase-sized modes.
A Modern Twist on 80s Nostalgia
The Motocompacto takes inspiration from the original Motocompo of 1981, a gas-powered scooter add-on that neatly fit into the trunk of the Honda City subcompact car. Nick Ziraldo, a design engineering maestro at Honda R&D Americas, brought this vision to life after stumbling upon an employee’s sketch three years ago. The result? A pint-sized, electrified version that folds down to the size of a suitcase, making it a nifty last-mile solution.
Pocket-Sized and Personalizable
With a price tag of $995, the Motocompacto zips around at a top speed of 15 miles per hour, thanks to its 250-watt motor, all while tipping the scales at a mere 41 pounds. Though it won’t replace your entire commute with its 12-mile range, it’s the perfect companion for that final stretch, especially with its foldable design. When folded, it resembles a suitcase, and Honda encourages users to jazz it up with stickers or paint, adding a dash of personality to their daily ride.
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The unfolding process may seem a tad daunting initially but fear not—practice makes perfect. Weighing in at 41 pounds, the Motocompacto is manageable, offering a smidgen of storage space when unfolded. Surprisingly comfy, this scooter accommodates riders of all heights with its wide seat and footrests. With a weight capacity of 265 pounds, it’s accessible to a diverse range of riders.
Performance with Personality
The Motocompacto showcases commendable performance, hitting a top speed of 15 mph. However, keep in mind that the actual speed may vary based on weight and mode selection. Boasting two-speed modes and an intuitive app for customization, Honda has crafted the Motocompacto with individual preferences in mind.
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In a market flooded with powerful scooters, the Motocompacto stands out, not just for its charm but for its practicality. At $995, it competes not only in the electric scooter arena but also as a unique last-mile solution. Honda’s nod to its two-wheeled origins infuses a touch of Nostalgia into the Motocompacto, creating a delightful fusion of past and future.
The Motocompacto is set to hit the market exclusively in the US, with Honda expressing openness to expanding its availability based on the overwhelming interest in its design. In a world where practicality meets playfulness, Honda’s Motocompacto beckons riders to embrace a new commuting experience—one that brings joy to the streets and turns heads with its innovative design.
