Despite the silly name, the e:Ny1 looks like a rather practical and sensible electric crossover.
Honda has lifted the wraps of its second modern-day electric vehicle, the e:Ny1. Despite the concept car-like name, the battery-powered crossover is destined for production. If the styling looks familiar, that's because the e:Ny1 shares its body with the European-spec HR-V. America gets a region-specific version that's been tailored to local tastes.
But before we dive into the styling and interior, let's take a look at what's under the skin. The e:Ny1 is underpinned by the e:N Architecture F, a front-wheel-drive platform that provides a low center of gravity, a highly rigid body structure, and specially designed under-floor aerodynamics.
The e:Ny1 uses a chassis that has been specifically designed for electric vehicles. Honda says the newly-developed chassis improves torsional rigidity, thanks in part to the generous use of high-tensile steel. The three-in-one power drive unit also includes an electric motor and gearbox.
Power outputs are fairly generous, with 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque up for grabs. It certainly won't provide blistering performance, but should offer more than enough poke for daily use. No performance figures are available, but Honda describes the acceleration as “comfortable.”
The lithium-ion battery, positioned under the floor, provides 412 km (256 miles) of range on the WLTP cycle. Should the e:Ny1 ever traipse over to America, we can expect more conservative figures from the EPA. Honda's latest electric vehicle is capable of DC fast-charging, and the company claims the vehicle can replenish the battery from 10% – 80% in just 45 minutes.
The exterior is tasteful and boasts several unique touches that distinguish the e:Ny1 from its gasoline-powered sibling. This includes white-painted 'H' badges, which can be found on the wheel center caps, steering wheel, and front fascia. Speaking of the front end, the electric crossover does without the HR-V's grille, opting for a color-coded panel instead.
At the rear, you won't find the traditional Honda logo. Instead, the company name has been spelled out in a new, sophisticated-looking typeface that will also be used on future EVs from the brand. Overall, it's a stylish and conventional-looking crossover that should appeal to the masses. We're quite fond of the concealed rear door handles, which give the impression of a two-door vehicle from afar.
The interior is typically Honda: straightforward, well laid-out, and intuitive. A portrait-style 15.1-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, and can be used to control the various driving options and infotainment system. Whereas the regular HR-V ships with physical controls for the HVAC, the e:Ny1 appears to have digital controls. Hopefully, Honda has created an intuitive system that won't distract drivers.
Honda says the electric crossover's clever packaging provides plenty of space for occupants. Other nice-to-haves include multiple storage options and wireless charging for mobile devices.
Honda's fresh electric crossover will join the adorable Honda e (a delightful EV not sold in the United States) on the European market.
“The e:Ny1 is the logical next step on our electrification journey in Europe. Our development philosophy blends intelligent, customer-centric technology with beautiful design and fun-to-drive dynamics. This latest SUV exemplifies Honda's commitment to electrification and is the latest step on Honda's electrification journey,” said Honda Motor Europe's Tom Gardner.
The all-electric e:Ny1 looks pretty much the same as the Chinese market e:NS1. There will certainly be some minor under-the-skin differences, but the two vehicles have identical bodywork. This is just the first of many e:N electric vehicles from Honda.
Recently, the automaker previewed two production-bound vehicles, called the e:NP2 and e:NS2. These models will likely be positioned above the e:Ny1 and go head-to-head with larger EVs like the Tesla Model Y. In the USA, we can look forward to the Prologue, a GM Ultium-based EV, that will arrive in 2024.
Keyword: Honda e:Ny1 Debuts: Meet The HR-V's Electric Twin