New Honda EVs a window to brand’s electric future
Japanese maker unveils three new electrics, including a stunning, sleek GT, reports Matthew Hansen.
Toyota isn’t the only Japanese car maker who’s behind the 8-ball when it comes to electric vehicle development and output. Honda is also arguably in a precarious position, having just canned its cute Honda e EV hatch as well as its electrified North American market Insight.
A spate of new EVs – a mix of production cars and concept vehicles – could see the brand get back on the plug-in wagon.
The brand has confirmed plans to launch six new EVs in China via its Ye Series sub-brand (which still wears a Honda emblem), debuting three models in one hit in the form of a pair of SUVs and a slick, sleek GT.
Destined for production and release later this year are the Ye P7 (shown in blue) and Ye S7 (orange).
The P7 looks like the direct cousin of the current Honda HR-V, which is due to arrive in New Zealand this year.
The S7, meanwhile, carries a more sci-fi look.
The third Ye revealed overnight was the GT Concept, shown here in red.
With Civic-like proportions and adopting plenty of elements from the S7, the GT is a stunner, likely packing a decent range figure if its crease-less styling is anything to go by.
What those range figures may be, we don’t yet know.
Honda has yet to issue mechanical details for any of the new Ye models, so things like battery sizes, range, power output and torque are currently a mystery. Among the mechanical details we do know is that the platform that underpins these models will be developed in China, and offer both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options.
Honda boasts that rear-driven models feature “sporty and crisp handling”, and all-paw models get “highly responsive handling”.
Locally, Honda has launched several hybrid models in the recent past.
Last year it added the e:HEV ZR-V and CR-V to its stable.
And, this year, the HR-V and Civic e:HEVs join the mix.