Honda Shine Electric motorcycle, based on the iconic Shine platform. Patent leaks reveal design, battery setup, and Honda’s EV strategy for India.
Honda is gearing up to electrify one of India’s most iconic commuter motorcycles — the Shine. A recent patent leak has confirmed that the Japanese auto giant is developing an entry-level electric bike based on the Shine platform, signaling a strategic expansion into the electric two-wheeler segment.
After launching the Activa e and QC1 electric scooters last year, Honda is now setting its sights on the electric motorcycle market. The move comes amid growing demand for battery-powered two-wheelers in India and globally. The Honda Shine Electric is expected to be Honda’s first electric motorcycle tailored for mass-market appeal.
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Patent Insights: What the Shine Electric Will Offer
According to the leaked patent documents, the Honda Shine Electric will retain the chassis of the petrol-powered Shine, ensuring cost-effective development and manufacturing. Key highlights include:
Chassis & Design: Built on the existing Shine frame, the electric variant will mirror the familiar commuter-friendly design.
Motor & Transmission: A compact electric motor paired with a single-speed reduction gear transmission will be mounted directly onto the original engine brackets.
Battery Configuration: There are two removable lithium-ion battery packs. They are angled forward to resemble traditional engine cylinders. The batteries are mounted on either side of the spine frame. Each pack has its own tray with electrical connectors built in.
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Innovative Cooling Mechanism
One of the standout features in the patent is the airflow channel between the battery packs. This design directs cooling air through the batteries and onto the electronic control unit (ECU), which is positioned where the air filter and intake system would typically reside.
While Honda’s Activa e: offers swappable batteries, the Honda Shine Electric is expected to feature a fixed battery setup. This aligns with the patent’s structural layout and suggests a focus on simplicity and reliability over modularity.
Beyond new models, Honda is actively expanding its battery swapping infrastructure in India. However, the Shine Electric may not benefit from this network initially due to its fixed battery design.
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Market Impact & Expectations
The Shine has long been a top-seller in India’s commuter segment. By electrifying this trusted model, Honda could accelerate EV adoption among budget-conscious riders. More details are expected to emerge in the coming months, possibly aligning with the launch of Honda’s EV Fun concept showcased at EICMA Milan.
Source: Cycle World
