Honda to launch motorcycle hybrid system-equipped PCX scooter 

Honda has announced that the latest addition to its PCX scooter series, which is popular in Europe and some ASEAN markets for its stylish design and environmentally friendly engines, will be the PCX Hybrid. But with a difference

The Honda PCX Hybrid, which is priced at 432,000 yen (Rs 268,698) will be the world’s first mass-produced, motorised scooter (125cc or less) equipped with a motorcycle hybrid system, and will go on sale in Japan on Friday, September 14. Honda is targeting sales of 2,000 units in Japan in the first year of production

The PCX Hybrid, based on the PCX launched in April 2018, is powered by a new high-output lithium ion battery, adding drive assist to the ACG starter that conventionally starts the engine and generates electricity, which essentially means that this is a mild- hybrid system on a two-wheeler. 

By utilising the 125cc scooter’s limited space, such as positioning the lithium ion battery to the rear of the 23-litre capacity luggage box and the PDU within the front cover, Honda says the PCX Hybrid retains the PCX’s versatility, relaxed riding position, and ease of handling.

With a motor assisting the engine, the PCX Hybrid realises sharper throttle response and superior performance compared to conventional scooters in the same class (Honda 4-stroke 125cc scooters), while maintaining the PCX engine’s characteristic quietness and feel of quality. Two motor assist modes allow the rider to choose the level of motor assist: ‘D’ mode provides comfortable riding with suitable assist and exceptional fuel economy, and ‘S’ mode provides stronger assist for a sporty ride.

The PCX series is powered by a durable, quiet and highly fuel efficient global scooter engine ‘eSP’ (enhanced Smart Power) mounted on a high-rigidity double-cradle frame. All-LED lights and continuously flowing curves from the front to rear make the PCX’s styling elegant and relaxed.

Convenience features such as the Honda Smart Key system add to the series’ popularity among a wide range of customers. The Honda Smart Key system allows the rider to unlock the main switch knob by simply approaching the PCX HYBRID without the need to remove the smart key from garments.

World’s first hybrid system for mass-produced motorcycles
The PCX Hybrid’s compact hybrid system fits within the PCX’s chassis, enabling motor-assisted agile throttle response and high performance, while retaining the PCX’s versatility.

The engine is started and assisted by an ACG starter (with drive assist) controlled by the Power Drive Unit (PDU) which determines assist amount and monitors the high-output 48V lithium ion battery.

The ACG starter assists for 4 seconds after activated by throttle operation. The assist amount is determined according to the amount of throttle, and enables agile acceleration according to ride conditions while maintaining ease of use equivalent to the PCX.

Increased torque due to motor assist offers stronger acceleration, and agile throttle response only a motor can provide.

The PCX Hybrid’s compact battery unit houses both high energy-density lithium ion battery and a Battery Management Unit (BMU) that monitors remaining charge.

By utilising the 125cc scooter’s limited space, such as positioning the lithium ion battery to the rear of the 23-litre capacity luggage box (which can stow one full-face helmet), and the PDU within the front cover, the PCX Hybrid retains the PCX’s versatility, relaxed riding position, and ease of handling.

The instrument panel clearly displays various hybrid system details. In addition to speed, time, and average fuel consumption, the panel displays motor assist mode and amount, lithium ion battery charge status, level and remaining charge.

The PCX HYBRID’s idling stop system has a shorter start time than the PCX, and contributes to quietness while stationary and improved fuel economy.

Also read: Honda reveals PCX electric scooter, set to go sale in Asia next year