The new Honda e:Ny1 is the brand’s second fully electric vehicle (EV) for Europe, combining a new design approach with exceptional interior quality and advanced technology to create a compelling modern family car. The e:Ny1 was developed around the concept of providing new values, new sensations and new experiences for both existing and new EV owners.
Following Honda’s human-centred development philosophy, the primary goal for the e:Ny1’s development team was to deliver Honda’s renowned fun-to-drive dynamics, a smooth and refined ride, and the brand’s celebrated easy-to-use versatility. As such, the engineers challenged themselves to make the most of the advantages offered by a fully electric powertrain.
The e:Ny1 uses Honda’s newly-developed e:N Architecture F high-performance front-motor-driven platform, which will be used in B-segment electric vehicles globally. The brand’s latest battery management technology delivers a WLTP range of 412km (256 miles), and fast charging to deliver a 10-80% charge time of approximately 45 minutes. The compact architecture has also allowed for more freedom in packaging with all components housed over the front axle.
To set it apart as a battery electric vehicle, the e:Ny1 has a sophisticated character defined by a smooth, flowing design concept. The sleek, expressive headlights are neatly integrated into the bold face, which incorporates a clever rotating grille panel that provides access to the car’s charging port behind. Integrated taillights are connected by a full width LED light bar across the tailgate, while the range of standout paint options includes an eye-catching new Aqua Topaz colour.
To further reflect its unique standing in the Honda range, the model debuts a new EV identity. The white ‘H’ badge on the front becomes a new symbol of Honda electrification, along with a smart new typeface for the brand name at the rear.
Thanks to the clever packaging of the electric drivetrain components, including the placement of the battery under the floor, the interior is spacious and comfortable for all occupants. High quality cabin materials and luxurious seats make for an exceptional interior ambiance, while the digital instrument panel and large central touchscreen headline a comprehensive range of technology features that keep occupants connected and informed while on the move.
The e:Ny1 is the latest vehicle to feature the Honda SENSING suite of safety technologies as standard to offer impressive all-round collision performance and reduce driver burden through a range of advanced driver-assist systems.
“Following the recent expansion of our range of e:HEV hybrid vehicles, the e:Ny1 represents the next step in broadening the offer of electrified vehicles for our customers. Designed to meet European demand for fully electric compact SUVs, the new model blends our customer-centric philosophy with the dynamic driving spirit of Honda to create a compact SUV that combines practicality, usability and comfort with the highly responsive and engaging driving experience of a battery electric vehicle.”
Tom Gardner, Senior Vice President at Honda Motor Europe Ltd.
Bold and sophisticated exterior styling presents a new Honda EV identity
New expressive headlights and full-width integrated rear light signature
Short front overhang, large wheels and wide track offer a confident stance
New Honda EV identity debuts with updated badges and rear typeface
The e:Ny1 is designed with its own bold, smart and sophisticated character that uniquely marks it out within the Honda line-up as a fully electric vehicle. It carves out a distinctive aesthetic, with a short front overhang, large wheels and wide track for a confident SUV stance.
Sleek, expressive headlights and a smooth, noiseless front grille give the e:Ny1 a bold face and set the scene for the flowing design theme across the entire car.
A fine horizontal LED strip beneath the bonnet line connects the headlights and creates a unique lighting signature when charging. The sporty front spoiler lip appears to float beneath the lower grille section, which closes to hide the radiator when the e:Ny1 is parked. The lower grille is finished in a smart gloss black for a sleeker finish.
The charging port is located behind a panel in the front grille that rotates inwards to allow access, with its central position enabling easy charging from either side of the car.
In profile, the e:Ny1 shares a similar silhouette to the HR-V; with a similar coupe-like roofline, tightly defined belt and character lines, and smooth, noiseless surfaces. The clean and uncluttered design approach incorporates hidden rear and seamless front door handles for a cohesive, flowing design from front to back.
The rear turn signal, braking and reverse lights are all integrated into a single combination unit, alongside a full width light bar that accentuates the e:Ny1’s width and gives it a sure-footed appearance.
Debuting a new Honda EV identity, the e:Ny1 features white ‘H’ badges around the vehicle, including on the nose, wheel centre caps and steering wheel. In addition, a smart new typeface spells out the brand’s name on the rear for a fresh, premium look that will feature on all future EVs.
Sitting on a bespoke platform, the e:Ny1 is similar in size to the HR-V; 1,584 mm tall, 1,790 mm wide and 4,387 mm long, with a 2,607mm wheelbase. Smart new 18-inch alloy wheels feature as standard across the range, contributing to the sure-footed stature of the car.
Developed to offer a better charging experience, the e:Ny1 features a status indicator that makes it easier for drivers to check on charging progress from a distance.
The full-width black strip across the top of the charging port illuminates when in use, displaying an easy-to-understand charging status at a glance. The horizontal strip under the bonnet line gently pulses from the left and right when charging is in progress to create a ‘digital heartbeat’, and once complete, the strip stays illuminated to indicate that the battery is fully charged. In addition, it flashes red if a charging error is detected, and when charging is complete and the cable is removed, the car ‘winks’ goodbye.
Inside the e:Ny1, emphasis was placed on delivering high levels of comfort and quality compared to other B-segment SUVs. Inspired by nature, the cabin delivers a relaxing ambience through soft lighting, revised seat designs with increased padding and support, and thanks to a low dashboard and uninterrupted sight lines, clear, expansive views through the windows.
To enhance the in-car experience for both the driver and passengers, visibility and functionality were top development priorities, as typified by the new centre console design and its simple layout of the Drive, Park and Neutral gear selector buttons. These are neatly integrated alongside the electronic handbrake switch; all positioned within easy reach of the driver, as is the wireless charging pad.
Dominating the dashboard is a large 15.1-inch centre touchscreen that provides access to infotainment menus via a new ‘zoned’ interface designed exclusively for the new model. Along with the 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, the screen epitomises the vehicle’s clean and uncluttered interior design approach.
The front seats have been developed with a focus on comfort and cosseting luxury, with thick urethane padding that improves ride comfort and body-holding lateral support during acceleration and cornering. Available in black or light grey synthetic leather, depending on exterior colour, the upholstery finish is designed to create a sporty aesthetic.
Advance grade models feature smart stitching in a unique pattern, while Elegance grade seats are available in black only, complementing the light grey roof colour available on this model.
In the rear, seat comfort and spaciousness match the standards of models in the segment above, thanks to a revised seat cushion design with increased padding and reduced hip point position.
Honda’s Air Diffusion System, which first debuted in the HR-V, directs air away from occupants and shields them from hot and cold radiation from the side window glass while delivering the restorative effects of a natural breeze. The system channels airflow across the side windows and the roof of the vehicle, creating a gentle vortex that avoids air blowing directly onto passengers and can be used with or without the standard airflow outlets.
On Advance grade models, a panoramic roof allows light to flood in and creates an enhanced sense of airiness and spaciousness, similar to when driving a convertible, with a front sunshade and detachable two-piece rear sunshade that allow total control over the amount of overhead light allowed into the cabin. Keeping the operation manual eliminates the need for electrical components, which maximises the rear headroom and the glass area above.
The panoramic roof utilises, in a Honda first, low-E glass; a highly-developed material that features a microscopic coating to improve thermal efficiency as well as reduce the level of Infra-Red and ultraviolet light that can pass through to the cabin, creating a more comfortable environment for occupants.
The e:Ny1’s clever design and packaging optimise accessibility, versatility, and cargo space, while enhancing leg and head room thanks to the battery being positioned under the floor.
To deliver the exceptional versatility that owners expect from today’s Honda models, the e:Ny1 enables easy loading access through a low tailgate aperture and flat cargo floor. With the rear seats up, the e:Ny1 has a maximum boot capacity of 361 litres; which increases to 801 litres to the window line when the rear seats are folded down, and up to 1,176 litres when loaded to the roof.
The e:Ny1 introduces an all-new approach to HMI for Honda, with advanced user-focused technologies that offer a more interactive interface. Central to this enhanced experience are the new 15.1-inch centre console touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument binnacle. Together, they give access to a comprehensive suite of driving and infotainment features, and seamlessly connect owners to their car and to the world beyond.
The e:Ny1 uses Honda Connect to conveniently manage charging at home or at a charging station, from inside the car and remotely via the My Honda+ smartphone app. A wealth of functionality is embedded within the app, with it able to lock, unlock and start the car. Climate control can be adjusted and activated prior to departure times or at a scheduled start time. The app also allows users to keep track of their journeys, view their car’s location and send their destination to friends and family. Further useful information is displayed in the app, including charge remaining, charging status, and a charging timer.
Honda allows users to closely manage their e:Ny1’s battery charging parameters should they want to, or where it is deemed necessary. In order to adapt to different charging environments and avoid charging failure due to fluctuations in supply or power surges, Honda Connect allows users to set the maximum charging current depending on infrastructure for both ‘Home’ and ‘Away’ settings. Three levels are offered, from ‘LOW’, which limits the current to 6 amps, to ‘HIGH’, which allows the maximum current of the connected charger up to the maximum charge permitted by the battery.
This functionality allows the user to select the maximum current for AC charging to prevent it tripping the breaker in locations where a dedicated power breaker for AC chargers is not used.
The e:Ny1’s chassis and powertrain have been engineered to deliver a fun and confidence-inspiring driving experience that combines Honda’s spirit of performance and the benefits of electric propulsion. Key to this is the first European application of Honda’s e:N Architecture F high-performance platform.
A part of the brand’s global electrification strategy, the e:N Architecture is a modular approach to electric vehicle (EV) design. The fundamental ideology behind it is that the common modular components are supported by an appropriate, high-rigidity core body structure for highly dynamic performance. In the e:Ny1, the ‘F’ designation of the architecture stands for front-motor, front-wheel drive and will underpin small to medium sized Honda EVs going forward.
Other platforms within the global portfolio will also be offered with all-, and rear-wheel drive options, all built around the same principles of a central, high-density, high-efficiency battery paired with a compact high-power drive motor, or motors for AWD applications.
For application on the F platform, the cleverly packaged three-in-one motor, which houses the power drive unit, electric motor and transmission, has a combined weight of just 77.4kg (with oil) over the front axle. The high performance 150 kW motor boasts exceptional 92% efficiency, delivering up to 310 Nm of torque (2,788 Nm at the wheels), propelling the car from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds and to a maximum speed of 160 km/h. Advanced thermal management is achieved through a water-cooled circuit, which ensures consistent power delivery without overheating.
This dynamic set up underpins a lightweight yet rigid body frame that is constructed from a blend of high-tensile steels with 47% (by weight) of the model’s body made of these materials. Their strategic application around the vehicle has resulted in high torsional rigidity and low mass, with the e:Ny1 over 100kg lighter than some European rivals.
When compared to the HR-V, the e:Ny1 features additional high-tensile bracing to the floor and roof sections, as well as around the front wheel wells, providing a more solid base from which to build a dynamic electric vehicle.
The compact 68.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, located under the floor of the e:Ny1, provides a range of up to 412 km (WLTP), with its fast-charging capability allowing it to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 45 minutes using a DC rapid charger and CCS connector. This method also allows 100km of range to be added in just 11 minutes. When using a standard domestic AC charger, 10-80% of total charging capacity can be achieved in six hours.
With integrated water-cooling, the high-density battery consists of 195Ah cells, located in the centre of the e:Ny1 underfloor. This layout contributes to a low centre of gravity and concentrated mass for improved road holding, as well as to overall aerodynamic performance without the need for additional external parts.
While battery capacity is similar to class leaders, Honda’s latest EV stands out from its competitors for its higher rate of charging consistency as, while some competitors offer a greater maximum rate of charge, this level is rarely achieved due to fluctuations in charging rates at different stages of the battery charging cycle.
The e:Ny1 has a specifically developed recharging system that permits a sustained higher charge rate over its rivals. Whilst some manufacturers have prioritised headline rapid charge figures, the e:Ny1 is able to maintain a higher average rate for more of the charging process. The linear, higher charge rate is maintained for well over half of the charge, with very little drop off towards full capacity.
This approach is beneficial to customers as it helps prevent premature battery deterioration and helps maintain range over the vehicle’s lifespan. Charge power and charging strategy are two fundamental elements that significantly influence battery life span. Honda’s approach to this has therefore been to create a healthy balance between user practicality and battery durability via sophisticated energy management and thermal control systems.
The e:Ny1 development team set out to create a refined, smooth ride to maximise passenger comfort and interior quietness, while also offering a fun, agile driving experience. The goal was to create a fully electric SUV that is dynamically optimised for all European use cases and a broad range of road surfaces, with engaging handling and sure-footed stability that would inspire confidence among customers switching from combustion-engine vehicles.
Honda’s dynamic stability control ensures steering feel is smooth and linear, providing enough feedback to allow drivers to sense the available traction and adapt their inputs accordingly. Steering is light and agile at low speeds, with a firmer feel when travelling faster – a development specifically for the European version of e:Ny1.
For the benefit of occupants and to minimise motion sickness, Honda’s newest electric model is engineered to deliver smooth and comfortable acceleration and deceleration, without diminishing the appeal of the powerful and responsive acceleration typical of EVs.
The relaxing interior ambience is maintained on the move thanks in part to a major focus on reducing cabin noise intrusion to levels achieved by vehicles in the class above. Road noise in the low- to mid-range frequencies is significantly reduced thanks to Honda’s unique resonator wheel application, an additional dynamic damper on the H-beam, and the low sub-frame weight. These are complemented by strategically placed cabin insulation that reduces high frequency noise and vibration.
Three dedicated pre-set driving modes, Sport, Normal and Econ Drive, enable drivers to manually adjust the car’s performance settings to balance driving characteristics and efficiency. Econ mode reduces throttle response, prioritising energy conservation by adjusting the air conditioning, heated seats, and heated steering wheel to maintain the driver’s perceived temperature for a more economical drive. In contrast, Sport mode delivers a more exhilarating experience with highly responsive acceleration, while normal mode provides an optimal balance of performance and full cabin comfort.
The e:Ny1 becomes the latest model to feature the Honda SENSING suite of active safety technologies as standard, employing the brand’s latest camera and sonar technology.
The front camera system features a wide-angle camera with an effective horizontal viewing angle of 100 degrees, which combines with a high-speed image processing chip to enhance the detection accuracy of objects for the Collision Mitigation Braking System and other active safety systems. Another camera is positioned at the rear of the vehicle, and one on each door mirror, resulting in 360-degree coverage for Advance grades.
Supporting the camera-based system are twelve sonar sensors located around the car – four on each of the front and rear bumpers, and two on either side – which can detect objects such as buildings and other vehicles with a high level of accuracy. The camera and sonar systems work in unison to improve overall safety, allowing the e:Ny1 to accurately identify road markings and verges with no lines, as well as motorcycles, cyclists and other vehicles.
A combination of soft and rigid structural components, including high tensile strength steel, form part of a strong body that provides exceptional front, rear and side collision protection by dissipating energy away from the cabin in the unfortunate event of an accident. This crash safety protection strategy also maximises safety for high-voltage electrical components, which are automatically shut down in the event of a collision.
Honda SENSING is among the industry’s most comprehensive safety technology packages. It uses a combination of data from various camera, radar and sonar sensors to warn and assist the driver in potentially dangerous scenarios.
Honda’s Road Departure Mitigation System alerts drivers when lane drift is detected without a turn signal in use. Using the Lane Keeping Assist System, the vehicle can automatically apply mild steering torque to assist the driver in maintaining proper lane position and/or apply the brakes to slow the e:Ny1’s departure from a detected lane.
The vehicle is also equipped with the latest Traffic Jam Assist technology. This reduces the driver’s workload in low-speed traffic by helping to keep the vehicle in its lane, starting from 0 km/h. When congestion clears, the car seamlessly switches to the Lane Keeping Assist System from 60 km/h, a lower speed than conventional systems.
In addition, the Traffic Sign Recognition System recognises road signs and displays them on the instrument binnacle. The system also provides a pre-notification of signs to help the driver prepare for junctions or upcoming changes in the speed limit, while also working with the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), using one-touch speed adjustment, to match the prevailing speed limit.
The Driver Attention Monitor alerts drivers when it detects that their attention to the road is diminished. The system uses an angle sensor to measure the degree of steering-wheel corrections by the driver in maintaining a proper lane position. If it senses unusual and constant correction activity, the system will notify the driver to take a break.
The Honda e:Ny1 is a well-rounded electric vehicle, blending advanced technology, safety features, and a sophisticated design to create an appealing option for European customers seeking a compact SUV with a dynamic driving spirit.
