By Steve Laser
Honda launched the gas-powered N-VAN six years ago in Japan as a light commercial vehicle sibling to the popular N-BOX mini vehicle. The lineup is ready to expand with the new N-VAN e: all-electric model at Honda dealers in Japan starting in October.
N-VAN e: features a high-capacity battery, compact eAxle and EV components, while retaining abundant cargo space. For deliveries or recreational use, N-VAN e: has a range of 245 km (about 152 miles) WLTC. Charging times are estimated at 4.5 hours with 6.0 kW, or 30 minutes for a quick charge at 50 kW.
Honda plans to offer four trim levels: the N-VAN e: L4, with four seats, and the N-VAN e: FUN, that adds features like two-tone paint, LED headlights, and a light-beige interior. While the single-seat N-VAN e: G, and the two-seat N-VAN e: L2 are primarily for commercial users.
Accessories from Honda Access
Honda Access is introducing a lineup of accessories to enhance the versatility of N-VAN e: and energize the fun. Here are some examples of how the N-VAN e: could be used at both work and play.
Mobile Café
Honda designed the N-VAN with convenient features for commercial users. For example, the B-pillar on the passenger side is removed, allowing the van to be used as a mobile storefront.
The N-VAN e: enhances the possibilities for a mobile café. Electric power in the kitchen can heat drinks and prepare or grille food. With no exhaust from a gas engine, or noise from a power generator, the mobile café could operate indoors at commercial venues.
Construction Business
N-VAN e: becomes a multifaceted partner as a mobile shop for the construction business. With the high roof and low floor, there’s plenty of room to carry supplies and tools of the trade.
With the N-VAN e: serving as a mobile power supply, tools that normally need power from a bulky generator can simply be plugged in for easy operation, low noise, and convenience.
An AC external power supply accessory provides power from the N-VAN e: battery for devices up to 1500W.
Water Activities
When it comes to recreational use, the N-VAN e: is a go-to partner for fun times at the beach, mountain lakes, rivers and camping.
Accessories from Honda Access include a tailgate bar, roof inner side pipe, mesh pocket, and inside roof racks to hold clothing and sports gear. With N-VAN e: as a power supply, items like paddle boards and water toys can be inflated.
Honda Access also offers an external power input kit that can supply power to an outlet inside the N-VAN e: for the convenient use of home appliances.
Navigation and More
N-VAN e: customers can enhance their EVs with audio, navigation and high-tech accessories from Honda Access.
Choices include a Gathers series 8-inch Honda Connect navigation system (similar to the one shown above) featuring a charging station search function from a built-in data base, and a range display. Rear Camera Anshin Plus 4 is another accessory, with reverse parking support, backup support, rear blind-spot support, and rear vehicle notification function.
Note: Pre-production 2024 vehicles are shown. Features, specifications, and launch timing for vehicles and accessories for Japan market models are subject to change without notice.
News sources courtesy of Honda Access Co., Ltd. and Honda Motor Co. Ltd. Photos courtesy of Honda Access are posted in this story for editorial use.
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