The e Prototype is the undisputed star of Honda’s Geneva Motor Show stand – and for good reason.
It’s the brand’s first electric vehicle developed specifically for Europe and it has potential to do really well in the region considering that Honda has received 15,000 registrations of interest for the electric compact car.
However, European buyers won’t be able to place official orders for the production EV until this summer. Evolved from the 2017 Urban EV Concept, the e-Prototype sits on a dedicated EV platform that’s said to deliver “a blend of efficiency, performance, and usability that is perfect for urban environments.”
The word “urban” is key when talking about the e Prototype, since the driving range exceeds 200 km (124 miles). Combine that with a fast charge functionality that can top up the battery to 80 percent of its capacity in 30 minutes and you get a car that’s suitable for everyday commuting.
That doesn’t mean the Honda e Prototype isn’t fun to drive, though. Quite the contrary, as it features a rear-mounted electric motor that drives the rear wheels. The RWD setup promises engaging driving dynamics, according to Honda. Unfortunately, the company remains secretive about the specs. It does say the motor is powerful, but that’s all.
Compared to the Urban EV, the e Prototype features many changes, including the switch from three to five doors (all of which are front-hinged now), the ditching of the front bench seat, and the adoption of round taillights instead of the study’s squared units.
Despite sacrificing the concept’s sportier stance for a more practical approach, the e Prototype manages to send a similar vibe, thanks in part to the smooth body contours, rearview cameras, flush pop-out door handles, and the minimalist lounge-style cabin dominated by the dual screen horizontal display.
The production version of the e Prototype will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and will enter production before the end of the year.