Honda e:Ny1 Prototype points the way to battery-electric powertrain for HR-V small SUV
A new all-electric compact SUV dubbed the Honda e:Ny1 Prototype has been revealed in Europe as the Japanese car-maker prepares to expand its stable of electrified models in key markets.
To be sold alongside conventional and hybrid versions of the 2022 Honda HR-V that launches in Australia next month, the e:Ny1 Prototype’s relation to the small SUV is clear with design similarities taking in virtually all aspects of its exterior.
The battery-electric prototype has the same silhouette, overall proportions and hidden rear door handles as the series-production third-generation HR-V, as well as similar lighting signatures and grille design once you look past the solid EV-specific elements.
Cast your mind back to the Shanghai motor show in April last year and you may recall seeing a similar vehicle from Honda: an electric concept dubbed the Honda SUV e:Prototype.
Looking at that car’s key styling cues, it’s not hard to see the design evolution that’s taken place over the past 11 months, with the SUV e:Prototype being heralded at the time as an electric version of incoming new HR-V.
The production version of the e:Ny1 Prototype will enter the European market in 2023, joining other new electrified models including hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the all-new 2022 Honda CR-V.
Honda has promised to electrify its entire European portfolio by the end of this year.
Honda Australia has made a similar pledge, albeit without a definitive deadline, meaning the electric HR-V could be a chance to be sold Down Under.
“We are already well advanced with our plans to further expand the choice of battery-electric and hybrid vehicles for our customers and increase our offering in the fast-growing B- and C-SUV segments,” said Honda Motor Europe senior vice-president Tom Gardner.
“The new models we will introduce in 2023 set the course for the next generation of electrified Honda cars, all retaining the engaging driving dynamics, comfort and exceptional usability to which our customers have become accustomed.”
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Keyword: Electric Honda HR-V previewed