Honda e 2020

The Honda e arrives on the electric city car market with a deliberately urban approach. Far from competing with long-distance sedans, this Japanese model targets drivers seeking a compact, maneuverable and connected car for daily commutes in urban areas. Offered in two engine options (100 and 113 kW), the Japanese city car offers a range of between 210 and 222 km depending on the version. Its entry price set at €35,060 positions it in the premium segment of European electric city cars.

Design and habitability

With a length of 3,890 mm and a width of 1,750 mm, the Honda e takes up little space on the road and in a parking lot, a major advantage for urban traffic. Its compact size is accompanied by a height of 1,510 mm, offering a stance closer to a traditional sedan than that of a minivan. The wheelbase of 2,530 mm remains short, directly impacting the interior space available for occupants.

The cabin accommodates four passengers in a fairly compact configuration. The exterior design stands out with mirrors replaced by cameras, a technical solution that saves space and reduces aerodynamic drag. This element visually distinguishes the model on the road, although it does not eliminate the actual bulk of the vehicle for parking or narrow roads.

Engine and performance

Two electric motors are available. The entry-level version develops 100 kW (136 hp) and 315 Nm of torque, while the Advance version rises to 113 kW (154 hp) for the same torque. These moderate power outputs match the vehicle's urban positioning. Front-wheel drive is adopted on both versions.

The performance reflects this philosophy: the 100 kW version completes 0 to 100 km/h in 9 seconds, the 113 kW version in 8.3 seconds. The maximum speed is identical on both versions, capped at 145 km/h. These figures place the Honda e among the most responsive electric city cars in its category, without offering the punch of sports sedans.

Range and charging

The 35.5 kWh battery integrated under the floor delivers a WLTP range of 210 km for the 100 kW version and 222 km for the 113 kW version. These figures clearly position the model in the daily urban commute and short suburban trips segment. For regular long trips, the Honda e will require a charging strategy or a replacement vehicle.

Fast DC charging reaches 46 kW, allowing the battery to go from 20% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes on a compatible network. The on-board charger delivers 6.6 kW in alternating current, or 8 to 9 hours for a full recharge from a reinforced domestic outlet. The Combo connector is the chosen standard. These charging rates remain normal for this class of vehicle.

Equipment and technology

The camera mirrors are the standout technological feature. Beyond aesthetics, this system reduces blind spots and integrates into an overall peripheral safety approach. The Combo connector demonstrates standard compatibility with the European public charging network.

The cabin reveals little detail about infotainment systems or driving aids beyond the camera mirrors. At this price, it is advisable to check the details of the equipment between the two versions and their access to connectivity technologies or advanced driver assistance systems through variants or optional packages.