Honda to Begin Sales of New N-VAN e: Commercial-use Mini-EV in Japan
TOKYO, Japan, June 13, 2024 – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is set to launch its new N-VAN e: commercial-use mini-EV (electric vehicle) in Japan, with sales starting on October 10, 2024. This marks a significant step for Honda, fully entering the Japanese EV market with a popular light van model designed for commercial applications.
The N-VAN e: is based on the gasoline-powered N-VAN, known for its versatility and ability to meet a wide array of customer needs. The new EV model maintains the original’s key features like a spacious cargo area thanks to its flat, low floor and high ceiling, as well as the large passenger-side opening facilitated by the absence of a center pillar.
The N-VAN e: offers EV-specific advantages such as a power output function and a quieter cabin. The vehicle’s design incorporates a large-capacity battery, a downsized eAxle, and a centralized layout of high-voltage components to maximize cargo space while ensuring a sufficient driving range for commercial use. The N-VAN e: boasts a range of 245 km (152 miles) on a single charge in WLTC mode, making it suitable for delivery services and other commercial applications. Charging is also user-friendly, with approximately 4.5 hours for normal charging (6.0 kW output) and around 30 minutes at fast-charging stations (50 kW output).
Furthermore, the battery’s cooling and heating system helps maintain battery performance in extreme temperatures, reducing charging times and increasing range, especially during the winter months.
Type Variations
The N-VAN e: is available in four types to meet a diverse range of needs:
- e: L4: The standard four-seater model is suitable for various commercial and personal uses. Despite the battery being located under the floor, it maintains a cargo space comparable to the gasoline-powered N-VAN. Features include a 7-inch LCD meter and two-tone exterior color options.
- e: FUN: Based on the e: L4, the e: FUN is designed with styling to complement hobbies and leisure activities. It features a light beige interior and two-tone exterior color options as well. LED headlights and fast charging come standard.
- e: G: This model is geared exclusively for commercial use and is designed to be used by one driver and offers functional features. The passenger side dashboard is shaped to accommodate long items, and the interior length is increased by 95 mm compared to the gasoline-powered N-VAN.
- e: L2: The e: L2 has a front/rear tandem seating configuration for the driver’s side. The passenger side’s pillarless design enhances user convenience for loading and unloading, similar to the N-VAN’s design. The e: G and e: L2 types are exclusively available for lease through Honda Fleet Sales and Honda ON, the company’s online store.
Safety and Technology
All N-VAN e: types come standard with advanced safety and driver-assistive functions. The N-VAN e: will be the first commercial light van model and the first mini-vehicle model in Japan to include side curtain airbags for both the driver and front passenger seats as standard equipment. It will also be the first mini-vehicle model to adopt the Post-Collision Braking System to mitigate secondary damage. Safety features include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System
- Auto High Beam Headlights and others
Honda CONNECT allows users to set departure times for temperature control, optimize charging, and set maximum charging levels via a smartphone app. These functions contribute to a comfortable driving experience, reduced electricity costs and extended range.
