The automotive industry is changing faster than at any time in its history, with a convergence of trends and developments shaping the face of the sector beyond all recognition. Honda predict that by 2030 the development of automobiles will be centred around electrification, automation and services. Environmental issues, such as climate change, are driving demand for cleaner mobility and accelerating the electrification of automobiles. The Honda e first appeared in concept form in 2017 as the ‘Urban EV’. This was followed by the near-production ready Honda e Prototype, which received international acclaim at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. The production-ready car was given its full global premiere at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. The UK and Germany are targeted as the first countries for a commercial launch, with further European markets set to follow. The services will include the introduction of the Honda Power Charger and a flexible energy tariff.
Honda recognises that technology is developing at a rapid pace with the emergence of autonomous and artificial technologies and as such the relationship between customers and their cars is evolving. Customers are seeking increased connectivity between their car and their everyday electronic devices, and in turn the outside world. This human-centric approach to the automotive industry sees customers treating mobility as a service that they access, rather than a product that they own. The compact, fully-electric Honda e is inspired by Honda’s 2030 prediction, and its desire to improve the environment, particularly in busy urban areas. Engineered from the ground up to deliver a package perfect for the modern urban environment, the all-new Honda e is the ultimate creation based on the brand’s philosophy of human-centred engineering.
The Honda e is available in two grades – Honda e provides a 222 km range (WLTP), along with a comprehensive standard specification. Honda e Advance features a choice of 16″ or 17″ alloy wheels, an increased motor output and a Centre Camera Mirror System which can be switched on to relay the image from a central rear-facing camera to the rear-view mirror display. Other upgrades include a more powerful audio system, heated windscreen and steering wheel, and the smart Honda Parking Pilot driver aid. The advanced electric drivetrain employs proven Honda electrification technologies, with fast-charge capability to meet the demands of everyday commuting. The high-capacity 35.5 kWh battery provides a range of 222 km (WLTP), with 80% of charge added in just 30 minutes of rapid charging. A unique thermal management system optimises battery range in high and low temperatures, allowing the car to maintain optimal range capability and enabling more frequent rapid DC charges.
Honda e spearheads the brand’s ‘Electric Vision’ strategy for the European region, representing a commitment to a more sustainable model range. The bold ambition will see all of Honda’s mainstream models in Europe electrified by 2022, three years ahead of the previously announced 2025 goal, demonstrating the confidence Honda has in its proven electric and hybrid powertrain technology. This acceleration will see six electrified models launched over the next 36 months, including the Honda e, all-new hybrid-only Jazz, a stylish SUV and an additional battery electric vehicle. Honda’s new ‘e: Technology’ branding will unify all its electrified products under the same global name. Ahead of its European 2022 electrification goal, Honda will expand the application of its e:HEV dual-motor hybrid system to the entire line-up of Honda vehicles in Europe, starting with the next-generation Jazz, available from summer 2020. Honda’s vision for sustainable future energy supply incorporates urban charging solutions, domestic power chargers, and commercial energy services. The Honda Power Charger is Honda’s new domestic charging solution.
The Honda e is powered by proven Honda electric powertrain technologies. The high performance electric motor provides outstanding torque feel, yet is one of the most compact in its class. The Honda e Advance grade model delivers up to 154 PS (113kW) and impressive torque of 315Nm – sufficient to propel the car from standstill to 100km/h in 8.3 seconds. The 136 PS (100kW) entry-level Honda e, featuring the same torque output, accelerates to 100km/h in 9.0 seconds. The 35.5 kWh Lithium-ion high-capacity battery contributes to an exceptional balance of low weight, fast-charging capability of 80% in 30 minutes, and a range of up to 222 km (WLTP) in the entry level Honda e. The Honda e Advance grade with the 17-inch wheel option achieves a range of up to 210 km (WLTP). The Honda e launches with a ‘fast-charge’ functionality that can provide up to 80% of range in just 30 minutes, using a CCS2 DC rapid charger. Combined with an outstanding full range of 222 km (WLTP), the fast-charge capability of the advanced powertrain will deliver exceptional usability to meet the demands of everyday commuting. For complete charging flexibility, the reliable 35.5 kWh Lithium-ion high-capacity battery can be charged using either a CCS2 DC rapid charger or Type 2 AC connection.