Honda Denies Abandoning Combustion Motorcycles, Sets Sights on Carbon Neutrality
A Lie, a Hoax, a Fake News…? None of the Three
Recent reports on social media and websites have been circulating a false claim that Honda is abandoning combustion motorcycles in favor of electric propulsion. However, the Japanese brand has clarified its stance on electrification, stating that it will continue to produce internal combustion motorcycles, but with a focus on carbon neutrality.
Honda’s Electrification Strategy
Honda has published several press releases on its international website, detailing its electrification strategy. The company emphasizes its commitment to electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), with a goal of making EVs and FCEVs account for 100% of its global vehicle sales by 2040. However, this goal only applies to cars, not motorcycles.
A Link in the Error
Honda’s May 16 press release mentioned the importance of EVs in the area of small mobility products, including motorcycles and cars. However, this mention was misinterpreted as a hint that Honda was abandoning combustion motorcycles. In reality, the company is focusing on decarbonization and achieving carbon neutrality in its motorcycles by 2050.
Honda’s Decarbonization Plan
Honda’s plan includes increasing the sale of two-wheeled electric vehicles (EVs) and accelerating the electrification of motorcycles. However, the company also recognizes the importance of CO2-neutral fuels in its internal combustion engines (ICE). In an exclusive interview, Yoshishige Nomura, general manager of Honda Motor Co., confirmed that the company is betting on flex-fuel internal combustion engines that combine gasoline with ethanol.
Conclusion
Honda will continue to produce internal combustion motorcycles, but with a focus on carbon neutrality. The company is committed to reducing CO2 emissions in its ICE engines and will continue to offer them in Europe, while also exploring electric motorcycle options.
