Honda Electric Expands into OEM Power Equipment
At the World of Concrete event in Las Vegas this year, Honda introduced its first battery-powered electric motor. The Honda eGX 72V Brushless Motor is designed for integration into OEM power equipment products, both for indoor and outdoor use. With this addition, the company now offers a complete lineup of general purpose engines for various applications in industries such as industrial, commercial, rental, and consumer.
The Honda eGX is Compatible with Honda GX Engines
Honda has ensured that the eGX brushless motor has the same cubic footprint as its Honda GX engine, and the propshaft position is also aligned. This means that manufacturers can easily replace Honda GX engines with the Honda eGX without significant modifications, converting their gas-powered equipment into battery-powered equipment.
What’s the Big Deal?
The Honda eGX brushless motor is designed as an OEM product, allowing other manufacturers to enter the battery-powered market without the need to invest in capital and engineering for developing their own motors.
Initially, Honda eGX motors were used in construction equipment like rammers, power trowels, and vibratory plate compactors. However, Honda is now testing them in other commercial applications, including hydraulic power units and compressors.
Two Versions of the Honda eGX Brushless Motor
Honda designed the eGX brushless motor to meet the needs of both power equipment owners and equipment operators. The eGX can fit into any existing GX100 and GX120 applications, providing reliable battery power that rivals the power output of gasoline-powered counterparts, with less vibration and noise. Additionally, there’s no mess or fuss with fuel, oil, or AC power.
The eGX comes in two versions: a single-speed model and a three-speed model. Both models feature a 72V lithium-ion battery and a 2kW class brushless motor. The single-speed model, Honda GXE 2.0H, runs at 3600 RPM and has an integrated electric motor.
The GXE 2.0S is equipped with a split 2kW brushless motor and supports three speeds: 300, 3300, and 3600 RPM.
Honda has employed advanced insulation and coil technology in the three-phase brushless motor to enhance performance. It operates between 3,000 and 3,600 RPM and features internal and external fans for cooling. The motor’s power drive unit incorporates silicone seals and condensers, ensuring dustproof, waterproof, and shockproof capabilities.
Honda eGX 2.0H vs. 2.0S vs. GX100
The following table outlines the specifications for the Honda eGX 2.0H, 2.0S, and GX100 models:
| GXE 2.0H | GXE 2.0S | GX100 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery | 72V Li-ion 10 Ah (748 Wh) |
72V Li-ion 10 Ah (748 Wh) |
NA (gas) |
| Engine | 2kW class brushless fusion | 2kW class brushless separate | Air-cooled four-stroke OHC |
| Speed | 3600 RPM | 3000/3300/3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Equivalent | 100–120cc (2.4HP) | 100–120cc (2.4HP) | 100cc (2.8HP) |
| Torque (Net) | 3.5 ft lbs (3.6kRPM) | 3.5 ft lbs (3.6kRPM) | 4.8 ft lbs (3.6kRPM) |
Both the Honda eGX brushless motor and the 72V 10Ah battery pack are sealed to protect internal components from dust and water. Electric motors allow for longer working hours while minimizing downtime and the need for repairs associated with gas engines. Moreover, the reduced noise and zero emissions make the eGX suitable for indoor use.
Honda has designed the eGX electric motor and battery for extended runtime. Battery swaps are quick, and the Honda fast charger can restore a depleted battery to 80% capacity in just 55 minutes. The recommended charging temperature has been adjusted to a more indoor-friendly range of 41 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (5 to 30 degrees Celsius).
Honda eGX Fun Facts
- Designed for use in commercial OEM power equipment products for indoor and outdoor use.
- Offers quiet operation, reduced vibration, and fast charging for maximum operating time.
- High-power three-phase brushless DC motor improves performance and reliability.
- The sealed motor and battery pack make the unit suitable for harsh, heavy-duty environments, being protected from dust and water.
- The Honda eGX contributes to reducing carbon footprint in line with Honda’s Vision 2030.
- The motor and lithium-ion battery pack come with commercial warranties of three and two years, respectively.
- Available to OEMs from late summer 2021.
“Today’s environment is shifting supply and demand towards zero emission products. But reducing greenhouse gas emissions from operations is only part of the equation: battery-operated power products must meet the rugged performance standards owners demand, while making the equipment easier for operators to use. With this new, advanced electrified powerplant, Honda is supporting OEMs in the commercial market in their efforts to meet increasingly stringent regulatory standards, while developing more battery-powered products, enhancing service offerings, [and] collaborating and engaging with customers and supplier partnerships.” – William Walton, Vice President of Power Equipment, Honda
Honda eGX 72V Brushless Motor Specifications
- Type: Brushless DC Motor
- Cooling System: Forced air cooling
- Direction of Rotation: Counterclockwise from the PTO shaft side
- Net Power Output: 2.4 HP @ 3,600 rpm
- Net Torque: 3.5 ft-lbs. (4.8 n٠m) @ 3,600 rpm
- Motor RPM: 3,600 (integrated), 3000/3300/3600 (separate: user adjustable)
- Controller Type: Three-phase square wave
- Controller Maximum Output: 80A
- Control System: PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
- Brake Type: Regenerative
- Voltage: 72V
- Operating Temperature: 5º to 104º F (-15º to 40º C)
- Weight: 55.1 lbs. (integrated without SW box), 48.9 lbs. (separation + control unit)
- Battery Type: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Battery Weight: 14.1 lbs.
- Dimensions: 9.2 x 10.6 x 5.9 inches
- Maximum Battery Capacity: 748Wh
- Charging Temperature: 41º to 86º F (5º to 30º C)
- Warranty: 3 years
- Available to OEMs from Summer 2021