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Honda has announced an expansion of its electrified product line in Europe with the arrival of an all-electric compact SUV for 2023.
After the announcement of an exclusively hybrid European Civic, Honda promises the little cousin of the HR-V in 100% electric.
Presented as the Honda e:Ny1 prototype, this model will be at the center of the brand’s future European product range. According to the Japanese, the series electric vehicle will offer a “unique blend of dynamics, technology and design that Honda is known for” while representing “a great option for families looking for their first electric vehicle”.
The automaker did not release additional information on this compact electric SUV, but said it will be joined by a C-segment full-hybrid SUV, the CR-V. a prioriwhich will offer full hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options for the first time in Europe.
“We are already well advanced in our plans to broaden the choice of electric and hybrid vehicles for our customers, and we want to increase our offer in SUVs in the B and C segments. Growth in these segments is high. The new models we will launch in 2023 set the stage for the next generation of electrified Honda vehicles with an engaging, dynamic, comfortable and user-friendly ride”said Tom Gardner, senior vice president of Honda Motor Europe.
The photos offered by the manufacturer show an electric version of the Honda HR-V. Launched this spring in China, the electric HR-V is sold by Honda’s two joint ventures as the e:NS1 (Dongfeng Honda) and e:NP1 (GAC Honda).
This electric SUV is equipped with a 68.8 kWh battery that powers a front-mounted electric motor with an output of 150 kW (201 hp). The Honda e:NS1/e:NP1 is capable of driving up to 510 km with a fully charged battery, according to the Chinese CLTC test cycle. Its maximum speed is 150 km/h.
Whether the European model will feature the same powertrain remains to be seen. Honda is also to announce where the e:Ny1 will be manufactured, with China seeming to be the most obvious choice since the automaker closed its European factories in Swindon (UK) and Gebze (Turkey).