Study of the socio-environmental impact of electrical motorcycles in the vehicle fleet of San Pedro Sula

Abstract

Introduction. The motorcycle users have grown exponentially from 9% of the vehicle fleet in 2006 to 42% in 2019 in Honduras. The aim of this study was to determine the social and environmental impact of vehicle users, as well as the opportunities for reducing emissions using electric motorcycles. Methods. CO₂ gas emissions of motorcycles were analyzed in the city of San Pedro Sula, using the International Vehicle Emissions Model. A mitigation scenario was created through electric motorcycles. In addition, through a contingent valuation method (MVC), it was possible to explore how financially and socially prepared the current market is for electric motorcycles in Honduras. Results. Only 6% of the annual emissions from the transportation sector nationwide were attributed to motorcycles in San Pedro Sula. The most encouraging mitigation scenario where 71% of motorcycles are replaced represented a decrease of 223,121.62 tons of CO₂. If a subsidy of 70% of the initial investment is provided to obtain the electric motorcycle, the investment recovery period would be 4 months for the end user, otherwise it would be 16 months. Conclusion. Mitigation through the implementation of electric motorcycles is an applicable alternative in Honduras if there is governmental financial support for the end user.