Motorcycle makers are developing more moped-style electric models

Japanese motorcycle makers are developing more moped-like electric models as they phase out production of 50cc petrol bikes.

The change is the result of the introduction of more stringent carbon dioxide emission regulations next year.

Honda Motor has four such electric bikes on the market. The company says the model it introduced last summer can travel more than 50 kilometers on a single battery charge.

It plans to deliver two versions to other companies by spring 2025. It will also be developing more models.

Suzuki Motor is developing an electric bike with pedals. It is said to have a range of 20 kilometers on a single charge. It should hit the market next year.

But companies have struggled to market electric models. They are more expensive than traditional bikes and can only travel a limited distance on a single battery charge.