Honda showcases new V3 engine with electronic turbo concept
During the past few years of EICMA, Honda has been showcasing its latest creations in the electric mobility segment, signifying its commitment to a battery-powered two-wheel future. Now, the Japanese company goes back to its forte: developing internal combustion engines (ICEs).
V3 with e-turbo
At this year’s EICMA in Italy, Honda unveils its new concept V3 engine with an electronic turbo, alongside its EV FUN and EV Urban concepts.
Honda’s R&D engineers have applied some innovative thinking to what their next generation of high-efficiency, high-output ICE could look, feel, and perform like.
According to Honda, this new water-cooled, 75° V3 engine is being newly developed for larger displacement machines and has been designed to be extremely slim and compact.
It features the world’s first electrical compressor for motorcycles – which is basically an electronically-powered turbo as opposed to an exhaust-driven turbo – which is able to control compression of the intake air irrespective of engine rpm. This means that high-response torque can be delivered even from lower rpm.
In addition, the e-turbo allows a high degree of freedom of layout of all components in the limited space available on a motorcycle and an efficient centralization of mass. It also does not require an intercooler.
V3 from the 80s
Actually, Honda’s V3 engine is not new. Those who had the pleasure of riding motorcycles 40 years ago will remember the last time Honda had a V3 engine for the road - the seminal two-stroke NS400R of the mid-1980s. Now, 4 decades later – and in a completely different world – the potential of this new direction is obvious, with breathtaking possibilities in terms of models to come.
Honda also adds that development will continue towards mass production and towards the company’s goal of enabling customers to further experience the unique joy of riding and owning a motorcycle.
