HR-V's EV Twin, The Honda e:Ny1 Debuts in Europe with 412 KM Range

Honda Europe has expanded its all-electric lineup this week by launching its second-ever EV model in the continent, the all-new Honda e:Ny1. Beyond its hard-to-pronounce name and a sizable battery pack, this latest Honda ‘e’ model also boasts a rather familiar design.

The Honda e:Ny1 looks pretty much the same as the Honda HR-V!

Yes, the e:Ny1 (pronounced like ‘anyone’) looks exactly like the third-gen Honda HR-V, albeit with slight EV tweaks such as the missing front grille. Apart from the look, both models didn’t share any resemblance, as the e:Ny1 is based on the marque’s proprietary EV platform, the e:N Architecture F.

Honda said this new EV chassis has been designed with focus on stiffness in mind. With a low centre of gravity and functional underfloor aerodynamics, the marque claims this new platform will provide better driving performance without sacrificing too much of its comfort.

This EV platform grants this EV SUV ample space to house a single front-mounted and driven (FWD) electric motor layout rated at 201 HP (150 kW) and 310 NM, powered by a 68.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This battery pack takes about 45 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% via DC fast charging, granting the e:Ny1 a maximum EV range of 412 KM (WLTP) on a single full charge.

Visually, there’s nothing much to note about, as the e:Ny1 looks pretty much the same as the HR-V. Aside from the aforementioned grill-less front look, the e:Ny1 also sports white Honda ‘H’ emblem at the front, as well as new “Honda” lettering on the tailgate. This B-segment EV also rides on a different set of 18-inch wheels, featuring multi-spoke design with two-tone silver and black finish.

The portrait-oriented central infotainment display looks cool, but may be less practical

On board, the e:Ny1 boasts a slew of tech amenities and equipment, highlighted by the big 15.1-inch touch infotainment display and wireless charging pad. Like many other modern EVs, almost all of the car’s essential controls – including the climate control – are all housed within the infotainment system.

Like in many Honda cars, the e:Ny1's rear seats are foldable

Elsewhere, the low-slung EV platform grants the EV SUV with roomier cabin space without the usual high floor level as seen in many EVs nowadays. This layout also allows Honda to fit the e:Ny1’s cabin with its signature magic foldable seats.

The newly-launched Honda e:Ny1 will commence its deliveries in selected European markets later this year. Honda Europe has yet to unveil the official price tag for this B-SUV, but multiple sources from the continent estimated that it will cost around £30,000 (RM170,000 approx.). 

Should this estimation be true, it will make the e:Ny1 a viable option against the likes of the facelifted Peugeot e-2008 and Hyundai Kona Electric, in the ever-competitive European B-segment EV SUV market.