Global Motorcycle Market Grows at 5.48% Rate

GLOBAL REPORT
Michael Aistrup
Michael Aistrup

The global motorcycle market is growing at a healthy CAGR of 5.48%, according to Power Systems Research. Revenue for 2021 was approximately $107.1 Billion and projected to be $146.6 Billion by 2030.

Growth during this period is primarily due to increasing demand from China, India, and ASEAN countries. In addition, growth in traditional markets such as Europe and North America is also anticipated.

The growth of drivers for the Motorcycle industry come from the requirement for cost-effective private transportation among people around the world.

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Study Shows Plug-in Hybrids Dirtier than Believed

Plug-in hybrids pollute up to three times more than advertised, even when fully charged, and emit five to seven times as much CO2 when the engine is running, according to a new study commissioned by Belgian NGO Transport & Environment (T&E) and conducted by the University of Technology in Graz, Austria

The study measured emissions from three popular models: the BMW 3 series, Peugeot 308, and Renault Megane. Like many plug-in hybrids, these cars started as gas/diesel-powered models and then a battery was added on to improve emissions testing performance and mileage

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PowerTALK™, February 2023

In This Issue

Read in the February 2023 issue of PowerTALK News about the 240 ton EV mining truck than can charge in 30 minutes. At the same time, Volvo unveils an electric mixer truck and Japanese OEMs push to develop battery production in North America.

  • Alternative Power
    • • 240 Ton Electric Mining Truck Charges in 30 Minutes
    • • Study Shows Plug-in Hybrids Dirtier Than We Thought
    • • From Diesel to DC
    • • Volvo Unveils Electric Concrete Mixer Truck
  • Global: MC Market Grows 5.48%
  • N. America: Charging Infrastructure Blocks Adoption for BEV’s
  • DataPoint: Dumpers/Tenders
  • Brazil/S. America:
    • • Hitech Electric To Produce 100% EV LCVs
    • • Hyundai Keeps Gamma Engine in Units for Colombia
    • • Legislation for AG Tractors Cabin in Brazil Has Changes
    • • January Truck Production in Brazil drops 72%
  • Europe: Deutz, Daimler Align
  • China: Adoption of New Energy Commercial Vehicles Pushed
  • Japan: OEMs Seek Battery Production Channel in NA
  • South Korea: Hyundai To Start Operations at Plant in Vietnam
  • SE Asia: Kubota Seeks Manpower
  • India: Budget Focuses on Capex

Honda Plans Personal Electric Motorcycles

JAPAN REPORT

Honda said it plans to produce a motor-driven electric motorcycle for individuals in Japan by the end of 2023. This will be the first time Honda produces a product for the public in Japan.

Overall, Honda said it plans to launch more than 10 models of electric motorcycles worldwide by 2025. Their goal is to increase overall sales, including pedal-powered and electric bicycles, mainly in China and India. The company plans to increase its sales to 3.5 million units worldwide by 2030, more than 20 times the 2021 level.

The EM1e electric scooter was unveiled March 17, 2023, in Japan. It has a cruising range of approximately 40 km and uses replaceable batteries. The price is expected to be higher than gasoline-powered scooters with a displacement of about 50 liters. The company plans to launch the moped equipped with pedals that can be pedaled with the feet, and five other motorized bicycle models in China, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Japan by 2024.

Electric motorcycles face the problem that on-board batteries are expensive and production costs are more than 50% higher than those of internal combustion engine models. Honda plans to increase its global sales to 1 million units by 2026, and further to 3.5 million units by 2030. However, demand for internal combustion engines is strong in emerging countries, and Honda intends to maintain its annual production capacity of 20 million two-wheeled gasoline vehicles until 2030.

Source: The Nikkei

PSR Analysis: Honda is finally bringing an electric model to the consumer market. Yamaha already sells the E-Vino to individuals. Harley is spinning off its electric motorcycle division to attract investment, and India’s Hero will release its VIDA electric motorcycle in 2022 and is working with a U.S. company to develop new products.

All companies are very ambitious about electric motorcycles, but there are still many challenges to be overcome before they become widespread. As a first mover example, Taiwan’s Gogoro is doing well by developing a network of battery exchange stations. Honda’s EM1e is equipped with a single replaceable battery, and by taking the battery pack home after use and recharging it at a power outlet at home, the vehicle can start running the next day with a fully charged battery.

The handle makes the battery look easy to carry, but at 10.3 kg, it may be difficult for women to accept it. The spread of battery exchange station networks like those in Taiwan has just begun in Japan, and charging stations in urban areas are still in their infancy. PSR

Akihiro Komuro is Research Analyst, Far East and Southeast Asia for Power Systems Research

Group Beneteau Forecasts 10% Growth in 2023

EUROPEAN REPORT 
Natasa Mulahalilovic
Natasa Mulahalilovic

Groupe Beneteau, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of pleasure boats and mobile homes, posted revenue of USD 1.6 million (1.508,1 million EUR) for 2022. The boat division generated USD1.3 million (1.250,9 million EUR), 83% of the group’s total revenue.

The Group order books are full for this year. The forecast is for 10% growth compared to revenues achieved in 2022. Last year, revenues by market were at 613.20 million EUR for Europe, 424.4 million EUR for North America and 135.9 million EUR for other regions.

The group plans to launch 13 models in 2023, of which five will be new models of dayboats, four models of sailing yachts, two models of sail catamarans and two models of power catamarans. 

The boat division revenues increased 19.7% compared to 2021. The motorboats division contributed 58% of the total and the sailing division added 42%. The best-selling boats are the motor dayboats in size up to 8 meters followed by the sailing multihulls over 10 meters.

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Biodiesel Mix Increase Begins in Brazil

During its first meeting March 17, 2023, the new leadership of the National Council for Energy Policy (CNPE) approved an increase to 12% of the mandatory blend of biodiesel to diesel sold in Brazil, after April this year.

The proposal approved by the CNPE sets the addition of biodiesel in the composition of diesel to grow in April this year from the current level of 10% (B10 mixture) to 12% (B12 mixture). The content will be raised to 13% (B13 mixture) in April 2024, to 14% (B14 mixture) in April 2025 and to 15% (B15 mixture) in April 2026.

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DATAPOINT: NA Lawn Mower 2023 Production

3.4 million units is the estimate by Power Systems Research of the number of lawn mowers to be produced in North America in 2023. This includes 249,000 electric units.

Lawn mowers are produced in many designs and power sources and are designed to cut grass in lawns and public areas such as parks and golf courses. Robotic Mowers autonomously mow an area. Walk Behind Reel Mowers use blades set on a revolving cylinder or reel to cut grass. These mowers are powered either through human effort or engine power; when the reel mower is moved forward the reel moves, cutting the grass.

Carol Turner is Senior Analyst, Global Operations, for Power Systems Research

OEMs Target India’s Premium MC Segment

INDIA REPORT
Aditya Kondejkar

The dominance of Royal Enfield in the mid-segment of the premium motorcycle market (300cc-500cc) could be facing challenges from upcoming products. The Triumph Speed 400, a result of a joint development effort between Triumph and Bajaj Auto, and the Harley-Davidson X440, developed through a collaboration between Hero MotoCorp and Harley Davidson, are set to compete in this market segment.

In response, Royal Enfield plans to introduce three new models in the 350-450cc range within the next year.

The Indian motorcycle market has witnessed a favorable trend towards high-end bikes. The phenomenon of premiumization has gained momentum due to increasing income levels, a growing young population, shifting preferences, and a surge in product launches.

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Continued Growth Seen for Powersports Market

Michael Aistrup

The growing popularity of powersports is expected to provide many new opportunities ln this rapidly growing market. Some of the trends fueling this long-term growth potential are:

Growing/changing market for utility-terrain vehicles (UTVs).

  • Technological advancements through improved durability and adaptability to UTV’s, ensure greater enjoyment for UTV riders.
  • Industry-leading companies will continue to focus on increased product range and rigorous R&D initiatives to strengthen their market standing.
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Firms Develop Hydrogen-Powered Generator

FAR EAST: JAPAN REPORT
Akihiro Komuro
Akihiro Komuro

Komatsu, Hitachi, and Denyo announced the commercialization of a gen-set that uses a mixture of hydrogen and light oil as fuel. It is possible to mix up to 50% hydrogen, which does not emit CO2 when burned, and CO2 emissions can be reduced by 50%.

The first unit will be installed at Komatsu’s Oyama Plant, with full operation scheduled for the end of September. Hitachi will serve as the point of contact for the system, which will be marketed to a wide range of external customers.

The system can mix up to 50% hydrogen with diesel engines that use diesel oil. The power output is 250 kW. Komatsu and Hitachi provided the fuel injection control technology and the function to safely stop the engine in case of abnormal combustion, respectively, and Denyo assembled them into the generator.

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