The Rising of the Honda Micro Commuter

This fall, the plans of testing the micro commuter prototype beta in Saitama (Japan) have been proclaimed by Honda. As announced by Honda, the upcoming tests would prove to be useful when it comes to studying the usage patterns and the requirement for the micro sized mobility products. The tests would help in finding out how well the two-seater works as a family car, for car-pooling and sharing purposes or to cover short distances for the senior citizens.

The microcomputer prototype beta is based on the variable design platform. It places battery motor control unit and all the other key components under the floor to maximize the interior space. However, not much information is out about the model yet. The prototypes which were prevalent earlier used a 20 hp or 15 kW electric motor that helped them to hit a top speed of 80 km/hr or 50 m/hr. Thus, it enabled the commuter cars to travel approximately 60 km or 37 miles on a single charge.

A new production version has been designed and developed based on the concept of micro commuter of Honda. Honda unleashed its concept of micro commuter cars in the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. It has been described as micro sized by the Japanese brand. The terms short distance and EV commuter have also been assigned to it by the same brand.

It was produced in order to make it eligible for new micro vehicle segments that are now being considered for the licensing by the government of Japan. It is only 2.5 m long, with a width of 1.25 m and a height of 1.45 m and thus, easily qualifies as a micro car. It comprises of an electric motor mounted at the rear and fixed to a lithium-ion rechargeable battery of  15 kW. This would provide the highest range of thirty-seven miles or 59 km per hour and the highest speed of about 50 miles per hour or 80 km per hour.

The car has been designed to have enough room for the driver and at least 2 kids who can sit at the back. The conventional controls and instruments have been substituted by an all-new clip in the tablet. Many other new and striking style features of the stupendous Honda micro commuter are yet to see the day light. Next year, the testing of the initial lot of prototypes is expected in Japan.

The Micro Commuter Concept is a three-seater (1+2) vehicle. Battery charging hardly takes much time and can be done well within an hour using an outlet of 200 V. One of the distinct features that comes with the car is that its exterior panels are customizable and the owner can choose a graphic sheet of any pattern and colour of his choice to be inserted in it. Various other features make this car an extremely attractive and impressive model.

The battery can be used multiple times in a loop and supplies power to the vehicle motor system. The battery is charged through the process of regenerative braking, which has proved to be another useful technology. Moreover, the battery is removable and can be used independently as a power supply for other electronic devices like computer, TV etc.

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