Honda Fastport eQuad Prototype: A Quirky Electric Delivery Vehicle Test Drive

Introducing the Honda Fastport eQuad Prototype

• 💡 The Honda Fastport eQuad is a prototype electric delivery vehicle, technically classified as a bicycle for regulatory purposes.
• ⚡ Despite its classification, Honda has significantly enhanced it with features like fully independent suspension (double wishbone, remote reservoir shocks) and regenerative braking.
• 🔋 It's powered by a pair of MPPP 1.3 kWh batteries, which Honda uses extensively in Asia for various electric vehicles and generators.

Performance and Handling

• 💨 The eQuad features a 250W motor and a unique system where braking engages both regenerative and friction mechanisms.
• 🚦 It includes essential features like a bell, turn signals, and hazard lights, with reverse engaged by pedaling backward while hazards are on.
• 🎢 A simulated delivery course was set up to test its cornering, speed bump handling, and package delivery capabilities.

The "Race" and Delivery Challenge

• ⏱️ Two participants engaged in a friendly, unofficial competition to complete a delivery course, involving picking up and placing packages into a box.
• ⚠️ The course included a slalom, speed bump, and a U-turn, designed to test the vehicle's agility and suspension.
• 📦 The package delivery required unlocking a door, placing items inside, and relocking, highlighting a prototype feature that might change.

User Experience and Feedback

• 🥵 Both participants found the pedaling to be a significant workout, even with the electric assist, leading to exhaustion.
• 🐢 One participant experienced a brief slowdown due to an accidental engagement of "turtle mode" (a low-speed setting).
• 🔧 Feedback was given to Honda engineers regarding the need for better launch control and potential improvements to the turning radius and overall user interface.

Conclusion and Observations

• ✅ Despite its quirks and prototype status, the eQuad was described as surprisingly fun to drive, especially in the turns, with its suspension offering good comfort over bumps.
• 🏆 The unofficial "race" concluded with one participant winning, though the other pointed out instances of perceived "cheating" and minor sabotage.
• 🚗 The video emphasizes that while the eQuad is a last-mile delivery vehicle, its advanced features and engaging ride make it more than just a utility machine.