Since then, Honda has electrified virtually all of its line-up, predominantly with hybrids. But now it’s going a step further with what’s expected to be its first truly mass-market electric car – the new e:Ny1 SUV.
Here’s what you need to know about it.
Demonstrates a new electric car design
The Honda e’s striking design most certainly stood out, and there’s unlikely to be a Honda that’s styled like that again. But as the Japanese firm looks to introduce various new EVs in the coming years, the e:Ny1 helps to establish a new design language for the firm.
There are details such as white ‘H’ badges featured around the vehicle, including on the nose, wheel caps and steering wheel. The new ‘HONDA’ lettering at the rear will also feature on future electric models from the firm.
Bespoke architecture
While the new e:Ny1 might look quite similar to Honda’s HR-V SUV in terms of design, the two cars are surprisingly not related at all. That’s because this new electric SUV is built around a specific EV platform, known as ‘Architecture F’.
Bringing a rigid body and low centre of gravity, Honda promises it will ‘deliver a fun and confidence-inspiring drive.
Packed with technology
While the e:Ny1’s exterior design might be relatively conservative, the same can’t be said about the interior. That’s because it’s equipped with a huge 15.1-inch portrait touchscreen – the largest fitted to a Honda vehicle yet. The firm hasn’t revealed full details, but it’s said to bring comprehensive infotainment options.
Honda also promises clever packaging ensuring ‘remarkable interior space and comfort’, with the new centre console design offering several places for storage.
Competitive range
The e:Ny1’s front-driven powertrain combines an electric motor producing 201bhp and 310 Nm of torque with a 68.8kWh battery.
Full details are still being finalised, but Honda says this will be good for a claimed range of 256 miles, which is competitive with rivals such as the Peugeot e-2008, though that car does have a smaller battery. In terms of charging, Honda claims a maximum speed of 78kW, allowing a 10 to 80 per cent charge to take place in 45 minutes.
Sits alongside a trio of new electrified Honda models
The e:Ny1 was revealed alongside two other electrified Honda SUV models, as the Japanese firm looks to grow its sales in Europe with an extended line-up of models.
Joining the e:Ny1 will be a brand-new car called the ZR-V, a mid-size SUV that uses the same hybrid powertrain from the latest Civic, which has been widely praised. There is also a new-generation of CR-V on the way, which grows in size and is also Honda’s first model to be offered as a plug-in hybrid.