• 01 Jan, 2026

At EICMA 2025, the Japanese auto giant officially unveiled its first high-performance electric motorcycle, promising to solve range anxiety with standardized fast charging.

MILAN - In a definitive move to stake its claim in the high-performance electric mobility sector, Honda has officially unveiled the WN7, its first full-size electric motorcycle, at the EICMA 2025 trade show. The launch marks a pivotal moment for the Japanese manufacturing giant, signaling a shift from commuter scooters to enthusiast-grade electric vehicles (EVs) designed to compete with traditional internal combustion engines.

The unveiling on November 4 follows months of speculation and teasers regarding the production version of the "EV Fun Concept." By integrating standard automotive fast-charging technology into a motorcycle chassis, Honda is addressing one of the most significant barriers to electric bike adoption: charging convenience. As the industry gathers in Italy, the WN7 represents not just a new model, but a strategic pivot for a company that has long dominated the global combustion motorcycle market.

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Key Specifications and Timeline

According to Honda Global corporate announcements, the WN7 is scheduled for a market launch beginning in late 2025, with widespread deliveries expected in early 2026. The motorcycle targets the performance bracket of a 500cc to 600cc internal combustion engine bike, offering a familiar riding experience for seasoned motorcyclists.

Technical data released during the European reveal indicates the bike is powered by a 9.3kWh lithium-ion battery. Crucially, the WN7 supports CCS2 fast charging-the same standard used by most electric cars in Europe. This allows the battery to charge from 20% to 80% in under 30 minutes, a significant improvement over standard Level 1 or Level 2 motorcycle charging times.

"With an electric range of more than 80 miles and a quick-charge time of less than 30 minutes (20%-80%), the Honda WN7 is not only the future... but a practical reality for today's riders." - Electrive

Performance metrics provided by Motorcycle News and Cycle News outline a top speed of roughly 80.2 mph and a 0-50 meter acceleration time of 3.9 seconds. While range estimates vary slightly by testing cycle, reports suggest a real-world range of approximately 81 miles (130 km), positioning it primarily as an urban commuter and short-range leisure machine.

From Concept to Reality: Contextualizing the Shift

The journey to the WN7 began with the "EV Fun Concept" shown in 2024. Unlike Honda's previous electric endeavors, such as the Mobile Power Pack e: system used in smaller scooters, the WN7 utilizes a fixed battery system to support higher voltage and faster charging rates required for highway speeds.

This release comes as part of a broader expansion of Honda's lineup for 2026, which also includes the new CB1000GT sports tourer. By debuting the WN7 alongside flagship combustion models, Honda is signaling that electric propulsion is now a core pillar of its product strategy, rather than an experimental side project.

Market Implications and Pricing

The pricing strategy places the WN7 in a premium segment. New Atlas reports a UK price point of £12,999. This positioning reflects the high cost of battery technology but may limit initial adoption to early adopters and eco-conscious enthusiasts rather than the mass market.

Experts argue that the inclusion of the CCS2 port is a critical differentiator. NotebookCheck notes that the use of a CCS2 connector suggests Honda intends to launch its first large electric motorcycle with compatibility for existing car charging infrastructure, effectively instantly granting WN7 riders access to thousands of charging points across Europe.

Analysis: Technology meets Infrastructure

The launch of the WN7 highlights a significant intersection of technology and infrastructure politics. By opting for the CCS2 standard, Honda is aligning the two-wheeled world with the four-wheeled world. This standardization is vital for the viability of electric motorcycles, which have historically suffered from fragmented charging standards and slow charging speeds.

From a business perspective, the move puts pressure on competitors. While startups have dominated the high-performance electric motorcycle space for years, the entry of a legacy manufacturer with Honda's supply chain and distribution network could accelerate market consolidation. However, the range limitation-hovering around 80 miles-remains a contentious point for consumers accustomed to the limitless range of gasoline touring bikes.

Outlook: What Happens Next?

Production is set to begin later this year. The initial rollout appears focused on the European market, where dense urban environments and robust charging networks create favorable conditions for EV adoption. Reports from Autopost suggest that U.S. riders may face a wait, as the initial unveilings and specifications are heavily tailored toward European standards.

As 2026 approaches, the industry will be watching closely to see if the WN7 can bridge the gap between novelty and utility. If Honda's gamble on fast charging and mid-range performance pays off, it could set the template for the next decade of two-wheeled transport.

Ahmed Rashid

UAE business writer covering global CEOs, corporate transformations & leadership.

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