Home Auto Shows Honda e:N1 EV offered for rent in Thailand

Honda e:N1 EV offered for rent in Thailand

BUT IT'S NOT FOR SALE!

March 26, 2024

164

Honda has launched its first electric car in Thailand but the bad news is that it’s not for sale.

The Honda e:N1, which is the first locally-assembled Japanese BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) in the Thai market, is available only through rental programs from a number of car rental providers. Rental fee starts at Bt29,000 (USD800) per month.

While Chinese EVs have been flooding the Thai market with tremendous success, the e:N1 represents the first retaliation from the Japanese automakers in this fast-growing segment. However, many see it as a “temporary EV” before the latest generation of Japanese EVs are ready for marketing.

Based on the existing Honda HR-V, the e:N1 is assembled at Honda’s Prachin Buri plant and features a “3-in-1” electric motor package consisting of a motor, power drive unit and gearbox. It’s capable of generating 204 horsepower and 310Nm of torque, which is significantly higher than the hybrid model (131hp and 253Nm).

Honda did not disclose performance figures but the e:N1 should provide a quicker acceleration that the hybrid HR-V, while the top speed could be similar.

A 68.8kWh lithium-ion battery provides a range of 500kms NEDC, which is almost 400kms in WLTP mode.

The exterior design is identical to the HR-V except for the charging port (with status indicator) that replaces the front grille, logos and 18-inch wheels.

The interior provides a stronger wow factor thanks to the large 15.1-inch center touchscreen paired up with a 10.25-inch MID. There are also a stylish electronic gearshift selector buttons, blue ambient lighting, wireless charging pad and four USB ports, but controls for the dual-zone air-conditioning system have been incorporated into the screen graphics.