For many of us, commuting to work can be a stressful part of the day. Whether you are a car driver sitting in a long line of traffic, a cyclist navigating the roads, or just sitting on busy public transport, everyone has their own experience of the daily commute. So, how would you like to travel to work on a fold-up electric sit-on scooter? One that folds up small enough to the size of a small suitcase and fits under the office desk … enter the Honda Motocompacto.
Let’s go back in time…
This compact scooter is not a new concept, it was first seen in the 80’s. Honda originally designed it as an accessory to their range of cars. The idea was that it would be small enough to fit in the boot of a car, meaning that commuters could drive their car part of the way, park up, unfold the scooter and ride the rest of the journey into work without causing any congestion or taking up too much parking space.
Some might say it was a little before its time. In its original form, the Motocompo – a petrol filled, two-stroke 49cc engine with little power – it was only available in Japan and didn’t sell well. Perhaps the biggest issue was storing and carrying around a foldaway petrol filled briefcase. It’s possibly no surprise that production was pulled after just 2 years when sales didn’t reach their predicted levels.
Back to the present day
If we look at the model manufactured today, the Honda Motocompacto has been designed with practical, urban mobility in mind. It is safer and far more fun than its predecessor– it has an LED headlight and taillight which makes it safe to use in the dark and has an adjustable seat. The electric power runs at 480 volts which means it doesn’t top more than 15mph, so don’t expect to get anywhere at a great speed. Honda suggests that you will get around 12 miles on one charge with top-up charging times taking around 3.5 hours.
How do I get my hands on one of these?
Here is the sticking point, we won’t be seeing the Honda Motocompacto any time soon in the UK. It is initially being launched in the US. The laws in the UK would prevent it from being legal to ride here. It is technically classed as an electric scooter not too dissimilar to the electric scooters that you stand on. The current law states that “It is against the law to use a privately owned e-scooter. If you use an e-scooter illegally: you could face a fine. You could get penalty points on your licence.”
Watch the video below to find out more about the Honda Motocompacto:
Feedback
We welcome your views, what do you think? Would you ride something like this to get to work? Let us know in the comments below.
Wheels to Work
For further details on our scooter hire service, please call 01327 857213 or email info@wheelstowork.net.
Wheels to Work provide 50cc and 125cc scooters in Northants, Bucks, Beds, Berks, Warks, Leics, Shrops, Notts, and Oxon to support our customers get to and from their place of work.