Honda Enters Micromobility Delivery

The Rise of Electric Cargo Carriers in Urban Environments

Spending time in a major metropolitan area, such as New York City or Amsterdam, inevitably leads to observing a growing trend: compact, four-wheeled cargo vehicles navigating bike lanes.

These vehicles, frequently referred to as e-quads, are powered by batteries and differ significantly from cargo e-bikes, which are generally designed for personal use. E-quads are characterized by their larger size and secure, enclosed cargo areas.

E-Quads: A Solution for Delivery Services

This design has made them particularly appealing to delivery companies like Amazon and UPS. They offer a way to avoid the traffic congestion that often slows down traditional delivery vans and trucks.

Honda is now entering this market with its own offering, the Fastport eQuad.

Fastport eQuad: Specifications and Features

The Fastport eQuad is available in two sizes – a smaller model and a larger model – both built on a common platform. Despite their capacity, both versions remain smaller than even the most compact Mini Cooper.

They are capable of carrying loads ranging from 320 to 650 pounds. To comply with bike lane regulations, the eQuad includes pedals and is speed-limited to 12 mph (20 kph).

Powering the eQuad: Honda’s Mobile Power Pack

Honda utilizes its Mobile Power Pack battery system to power the eQuad. These 22-pound batteries are designed for quick and easy swapping, similar to the systems employed by Gogoro and Zeno.

Drivers can effortlessly remove depleted batteries by using the integrated handle and replacing them with fully charged packs from a caddy positioned behind the cockpit.

Cockpit and Software Integration

The driver’s compartment features a standard bike seat, pedals, and a windscreen for protection. An integrated display assists with navigation.

Honda emphasizes the software-defined vehicle aspect of the eQuad, suggesting it will receive ongoing updates and improvements throughout its operational life, though specific details remain undisclosed.

Manufacturing and Production

E-Quads destined for the U.S. market will be manufactured at Honda Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio.

This represents a shift in focus for the skilled technicians at this facility, who previously specialized in the meticulous hand assembly of the Acura NSX, a high-performance supercar with a top speed exceeding 191 mph.