Honda has unveiled the first motorcycle engine with an electrical compressor and promised to mass-produce it
Honda has unveiled an engine with an electric compressor at the EICMA 2024 show in Milan. The Japanese manufacturer claims it is the world's first V3 motorbike engine with this type of compressor.
Here's What We Know
In the automotive industry, electric compressors have long been nothing extraordinary. But in the motorbike world, with its limitations due to the size and weight of engine components, it's something new.
In Honda's concept, the electric compressor is designed for large displacement, water-cooled engines. Such a compressor provides stable air pressure regardless of engine speed. This means that even at low engine speeds, the engine delivers high power and responds quickly to commands.
The compactness of the compressor means that all components can be efficiently positioned in the limited space of the motorbike, ensuring easy access and effective weight distribution. In addition, the system does not require an intercooler for the air supplied to the engine in engines with classic turbochargers. And to power the compressor's electric motor, the prototype motorbike received a second battery and a more powerful generator.
Honda notes that the development of the new 75-degree V3 engine was an important step in the development of internal combustion engines. Series production of the new unit is under preparation. In addition, the company is also actively working on electric models.