Retro Honda Motocompacto e-scooter unveiled: Cheaper than a new iPhone!

The Honda Motocompacto has been revealed as its first electric scooter, with a retro ‘80s Japanese design, a 19-kilometre claimed range, and a price tag cheaper than a new iPhone.

Inspired by the iconic Motocompo from the early 1980s, the Japanese automaker revived it with a thin, blocky white-and-camel design.

As per the original model that was designed to complement and fit inside Honda’s city cars, the handle, seat and rear wheel can be folded in for a more convenient compact size.

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An electric motor powers the front wheels, with a top speed of 24km/h and a claimed 19km of driving (or ‘scooting’) range, which can be fully charged in around 3.5 hours using a standard 110-volt home socket.

It's mainly targeted at urban dwellers, who don't necessarily need to drive a private vehicle and those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

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The Honda Motocompacto e-scooter also offers integrated storage for the charging cable, a digital speedometer, a carry handle, and even a connected smartphone app to adjust settings.

Despite the thin suitcase-looking design, it promises to be durable as well with an aluminium frame, LED head- and tail-lights, and a steel lock loop on the kickstand to use on most bike locks.

The retro e-scooter was designed and developed in Ohio and California, and earned 32 patents.

Owners can also personalise it with decals, stickers and skins. If you want to nerd out even more, there will be a full line of Motocompacto-branded accessories, such as a helmet, backpack and apparel.

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Wait, how much does it cost?

The second-generation Honda Motocompacto will start selling in November, priced from US$995 (AU$1555), but it’ll be exclusively sold in North America.

Yes, that undercuts the latest Apple iPhone 15 Pro smartphone, which starts from AU$1849 or US$999 (it has a titanium frame, though).

It will be available via its website, and even Honda and Acura car dealers in North America.