Honda N-ONE e:: the Japanese manufacturer unveils its new electric Kei car

Just two weeks after showing its Super EV electric prototype at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Honda has just presented what will be the final production version, under the name N-ONE e:. This model will be the brand’s second electric Kei car aimed at the domestic market, after the N-VAN e:.

Honda states that it will begin accepting orders in the Japanese market on 1 August, with the intention of making the first deliveries next autumn, although no specific date has been announced so far.

The N-ONE e: shares its technical platform with the N-VAN e:, although Honda has not yet revealed specific details about its motor or the battery pack it fits. It is known, however, that its range will exceed 270 km under the WLTC homologation cycle –Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle-, meaning it will be able to cover roughly 25 km more than the N-VAN e: on each charge.

To give us an idea of what to expect, the N-VAN e: is offered with a choice of two motors, producing 39 kW and 162 Nm of torque, or 47 kW and the same 162 Nm of torque. The battery pack fitted is, however, the same across all versions with a capacity of 29.6 kWh.

It moves through the city like a fish in water

The design of the N-ONE e: is intended to make it easy to use in urban environments and especially in Japan’s large cities. It features two charging ports at the front, ideal for bay parking, one on the right side for standard chargers and another on the left for fast charging. In addition, the vehicle supports V2H bidirectional charging, allowing it to be used as a power source in emergencies if there is a power cut.

Stylistically, the N-ONE e: takes its inspiration from the petrol-powered N-ONE, but with a more modern and attractive look. Its square silhouette is combined with a short bonnet, round headlights cut off at the top and a more prominent front grille, giving it a personality of its own. The 14-inch six-spoke alloy wheels and the transparent LED rear lights give this model a fresh, youthful feel.

Inside, the N-ONE e: steps up with a more sophisticated design than the petrol model. The dashboard has been completely redesigned and looks more elegant. It also features a two-spoke steering wheel, a simplified centre console with button-operated gear selector and a digital instrument cluster. This new electric Kei car from Honda will be available in two versions, G and L, the latter equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen with navigation system.

Urban and affordable

Although the Japanese manufacturer has not yet officially disclosed the retail price of this new electric Kei car, it is estimated to be around 13 euros at current exchange rates. Honda also plans to sell the N-ONE e: in Japan with the possibility of taking advantage of a government subsidy of 574,000 yen, which amounts to roughly 3,300 euros at current exchange rates, making its final price even more attractive.