Honda New Zealand has launched its first-ever pure-electric vehicle, the e:N1. It's a compact SUV that looks a lot like the HR-V (it does actually share many body panels) and is priced just above the top HR-V e:HEV hybrid, but it's also a separate model in its own right, on a bespoke platform.
With a 68.8kWh battery, single 150kW/310Nm motor (front-drive) and range of 412km (3P-WLTP, although Honda is advertising 500km "in optimal conditions"), the $52,000 e:N1 sits above the $48,500 HR-V Sport e:HEV and just underneath the $55,000 ZR-V Sport e:HEV.
What does the name mean? The "e" aligns it with Honda's other electrified products, but the rest has evolved from the model's original e:NY1 badge, which was Honda's clever way of suggesting it's an EV "for anyone".
A bit too clever apparently, as the company has rethought and simplified the name since its international launch back in 2023.
The e:N1 here in just one specification. Standard are an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone air conditioning with both dust and pollen filters, and 15.1-inch infotainment screen with wireless phone projection.
There are just 2 colours available: Aqua Topaz Metallic (pictured) and Platinum White Pear.
