Honda is finally stepping into the electric van market with the N-VAN electric version, named "N-Van e:."
N-Van e: continues the spacious design of its fuel-powered counterpart and offers Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) power supply functionality. It is equipped with Honda Connect smart connectivity features primarily used for battery adjustments. Honda states that it will have a range of over 210 km under WLTC standards and will be available in three models: e:L4, e:Fun, and e:L2. The official release is expected in spring 2024, with a debut planned at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show. Pricing details have not been disclosed yet.
N-Van e: retains the spacious interior emphasized in the N series, providing convenient cargo space. The manufacturer notes that the batteries installed under the vehicle are thinner, resulting in a flat and low floor, combined with a high roof design, creating a large luggage area. It can carry a maximum load of 300 kg and accommodate 71 boxes measuring 30 cm in length, 31 cm in width, and 28 cm in height. Additionally, both the front passenger seat and rear seats can be folded flat, making it easier to load longer items. The central support pillar in the front passenger seat has been removed, further enhancing cargo flexibility.
The three N-Van e: models have slightly different interior designs. e:L4 focuses on functionality and safety, e:Fun aims for leisure and natural design, suitable for outings, while e:L2 is designed primarily for commercial cargo use. In e:L2, the front and rear seats on the left side of the vehicle have been removed, and the floor has been lowered. The manufacturer emphasizes that N-Van e: incorporates recycled car bumper materials in various parts, promoting environmental recycling.
As the debut pure electric product in Honda's K-CAR series, the N-Van e: naturally draws attention to its range and charging capabilities. Currently, Honda states that N-Van e: offers a range of WLTC 210 km or more and provides an Econ energy-saving mode to reduce air conditioning power consumption. Regarding charging capabilities, Honda mentions that DC fast charging supports up to 50 kW power, allowing an 80% charge in about 30 minutes. However, the starting charge level has not been specified. Additionally, it is equipped with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power supply functionality, supporting a maximum output power of 1.5 kW to external devices through the Honda Power Supply Connector device, providing power for household appliances. Power data has not been released by the manufacturer yet.
N-Van e: comes with the Honda Connect smart connectivity system, with its main feature being battery control. Before driving, the battery can be preheated to enhance overall range performance. Other functions include setting charging time, adjusting maximum charging power, and adjusting the battery charge limit between 80% and 100%. When providing external power, the vehicle can be set to automatically stop supplying power when the vehicle's own battery reaches a certain percentage, preventing excessive power supply that could deplete the vehicle's battery.
In terms of safety systems, the base model e:L2 is equipped with features such as CMBS (Collision Mitigation Braking System), automatic high beams, parking radar, and lane departure prevention. The mid-to-high-end models e:L4 and e:Fun come standard with the Honda Sensing assistance system, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), pedal misapplication suppression function, sign recognition, and forward departure notification, among others.
