Honda EM1 e: Launching in Vietnam on October 10th – Anticipated Price Around 40 Million VND

While the Japanese automaker has kept all details under wraps until the last minute, speculation suggests that the new model is the Honda EM1 e:. This affordable and versatile electric scooter has already achieved success in neighboring markets like Indonesia and the Philippines.

If launched in Vietnam, the Honda EM1 e: will be positioned as a more practical upgrade compared to its sibling, the ICON e:. The most significant difference lies in its interchangeable battery system, which replaces the fixed battery under the floor. The EM1 e: features the Honda Mobile Power Pack e: stored in the trunk, allowing users to remove it for home charging or quick swaps at public charging stations. This is a key strategy for Honda in 2026, as the company plans to expand its battery-swapping stations nationwide, addressing urban commuters’ concerns about charging wait times.

The EM1 e: resembles a traditional scooter, similar to the Honda Lead but with a more compact design suited for short trips. It features low-mounted LED headlights on the front apron, a crisp LCD display, and a storage compartment with a phone charging port. However, the use of a traditional mechanical key is a notable drawback when compared to its direct competitor, the Yamaha NEO’s, which boasts a Smartkey system.

Powered by a 1.5kW electric motor located at the rear wheel, the EM1 e: offers slightly more torque than the ICON e:, delivering 90 Nm for smoother performance in congested urban environments. Its range is limited to 48 km per full charge in ECO mode. Given this modest range, the success of the EM1 e: in Vietnam will heavily depend on the density of battery-swapping stations. If these stations are not as widespread as gas stations, users may face frequent charging needs.

In terms of pricing, industry experts predict that the Honda EM1 e: will be more competitively priced in Vietnam compared to other regional markets. Considering the ICON e: is priced below 30 million VND in Vietnam, the EM1 e: is likely to be priced around 40 million VND, similar to its price in the Philippines. This competitive pricing, aligned with the Honda Lead segment, is expected to revitalize the urban electric scooter market for young consumers in the near future.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)