Honda reveals SH125i Marmo concept featuring recyclable plastic bodywork

Honda is marking the 25th anniversary of its SH125i scooter with a project that rolls sculpture design, engineering innovation and filmmaking all into one.

To celebrate the scooter, Honda has begun by revealing the SH125i Marmo concept which uses recyclable acrylic plastic as part of its bodywork materials. 

In terms of the SH125i’s history, it has been a major cornerstone of the company’s Italian factory in Atessa, which is located in the south-east of the country. Therefore, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear that the new Marmo concept has also been developed at the Italian manufacturer facility.

At first glance you might be thinking that this is just a celebratory concept of the SH125i, however, the Marmo model focuses entirely on sustainability. The Marmo concept’s colour is integrated directly into the material before moulding, which does away with the need for a traditional paint stage during production. By eliminating the painting process, the Marmo concept has the ability to reduce CO2 emissions even further.

Sebastiano Cerrone, Head of Product Innovation at Honda Italia Industriale, said this about the thinking behind the new concept: 

“The SH Marmo is a pioneering concept, which takes the reflection of production materials even further. The material offers great freedom of expression and allows the introduction of unique motifs and styles from the very earliest stages of production.” 

Completing the project is the “Hanami” (meaning ‘flower blossom viewing’) marble SH125i sculpture, which has been designed from one single block of marble, according to Honda.

It has been created by Italian sculptor Filippo Tincolini, who also spoke about the project, saying: 

“Working with the design team at Honda has been a great experience. They explained how much the design ethos of the SH is inspired somehow by the sculptors of the renaissance – very clean lines, strong surfaces with a purity and simplicity. When Honda explained this background, I became very enthusiastic about helping to celebrate the SH.”

The new project is joined by a three-part film series documenting the design process and development behind the concept and sculpture.

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