Two-wheel drive with in-wheel motors on both the front and rear wheels! This is Honda’s new concept model for the future. [Japan Mobility Show 2025]

Expressing smooth driving with the freedom of styling that only an electric vehicle can offer

The display of concept models adds a touch of glamour to the show. Reflecting the current trends, Honda's booth introduced a number of EV models, and on the stage were two EV concept bikes. One was the EV URBAN CONCEPT, which was exhibited at EICMA in 2024, and is a model comparable to a mid-size bike. The other, pushed to the front, was the EV OUTLIER Concept, which was making its world debut. This is an EV bike envisioned as a large-size bike, and is characterized by its elegant form reminiscent of the flow of wind. What's more, it is a two-wheel drive system with wheel-in motors on both the front and rear wheels.

　While electric motorcycles exist in some models, such as scooters, they are not yet widely known. However, their most common features are their excellent acceleration and smooth power feel. The EV OUTLIER Concept's styling expresses the smooth riding feel of an electric motor. The result is a low, glider-like body. The 
　use of wheel-in motors on both the front and rear wheels allows for greater freedom in vehicle design. As a result, a low seat position with a significantly lowered seat height can be realized. Electric motorcycles allow for a variety of design ideas that would be impossible with conventional engines. 
"Simply lowering the seat makes it feel like you're riding a log. So we aimed for a design that would provide a sense of balance when the rider is aboard," says Yuichi Yokoyama, chief engineer and designer of the Motorcycle Design Development Department's Product Design Studio. He wonders 
　whether wheel-in motors, coupled with two-wheel drive, would result in natural handling characteristics. In response to this, Tsutsumi Yuya, assistant chief engineer and modeler at the e-Product Design Studio in the Motorcycle Power Products Design Development Department, said, "I believe this can be resolved by improving control technology."

　There are still many challenges remaining for EV bikes, such as battery miniaturization, driving range, and charging time. As these are overcome one by one, control technology will also be advanced. Development of an EV bike with an eye to the future has only just begun. However, developers Yokoyama Yuichi and Tsutsumi Yuya are confident that it can be realized. The 
　EV OUTLIER Concept is a concept model that will inspire and inspire riders.