By Steve Laser
Honda is expanding its lineup of electric vehicles in Europe with the addition of a new model called e:Ny1. Larger than the retro-styled Honda e that went on sale three years ago, the new e:Ny1 is a compact B-segment SUV with a contemporary design.
At first glance, the e:Ny1 appears to be an electrified version of the similar-sized European Honda HR-V. However, e:Ny1 rides on a newly developed, front-motor-driven EV platform called e:N Architecture F.
Up front, e:Ny1 features sporty styling, without a traditional grille. In its place is a rotating, bodycolor panel that opens to reveal the charging port. It wears a new, white “H” badge that Honda calls a symbol for its electrification.
Rear styling is also distinctive, with taillights connected by an LED light bar that spans the tailgate. New Honda script, below the lights, replaces the traditional H logo in this location. The e:Ny1 in the photos is dressed with a new exterior color called Aqua Topaz.
The e:Ny1 features a three-in-one motor that includes the power drive unit, electric motor and transmission. The motor is rated at 150kW (204 PS) and 310 Nm of torque. A separate 68.8 kW lithium-ion battery is said to provide a WLTP range of up to 412 km (about 256 miles). Charging from 10 to 80 percent is estimated at 45 minutes with a DC rapid charger and CCS connector.
Available in Elegance and Advance models, standard features include synthetic leather upholstery, an 8-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, dual-zone air conditioning, and a wireless charging pad. A panoramic sunroof, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and handsfree power tailgate are included with the Advance.
A 10.25-inch digital instrument panel offers EV info, such as energy use and charging status. The standard Honda Connect 15.1-inch center touchscreen features three zones: Connect, Driver Assist and A/C. Android Auto™ and wireless Apple CarPlay® are also included. The My Honda+ app lets users conveniently manage climate control and remote charging.
The center console layout features Drive, Park, and Neutral gear selection buttons. A separate Drive Mode switch allows drivers to adjust the vehicle’s performance with Sport, Normal and Econ selections. A regenerative braking/deceleration control paddle is also included on the steering wheel.
Standard Honda Sensing driver-assist features include Collision Mitigating Braking, Blind Spot Information, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, front and rear parking sensors and a backup camera. Honda Parking Pilot is included on Advance, along with a multi-view camera and additional side sensors.
Honda e
The Honda e is a retro-styled, EV hatchback designed to be an urban commuter. It went on sale in Europe for 2020, featuring rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight distribution, a low center of gravity, and four-wheel independent suspension. It also offers a vibrant exterior color, called Charge Yellow.
An electric motor delivers 100 kW (136 PS) and 315 Nm of torque for the base model, with 113 kW (154 PS) for the Honda e Advance. A compact 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery is said to offer DC quick-charging capability of 80 percent in about 31 minutes, and has a WLTP range of 137 miles, for models in the UK.
The Honda e sports a full-width, digital dash with a multi-info display for the driver, and two separate, customizable 12.3-inch touchscreens accessible by the driver and front passenger. Honda Connect with Garmin navigation is included for UK models. A side camera mirror system displays images on separate small screens at the sides of the dash, replacing traditional side mirrors.
Note: Features and specifications for European market models are subject to change without notice. Honda e:Ny1 and Honda e are not available in America.
News sources and photos courtesy of Honda Motor Europe and Honda UK
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