Everyone is gushing over the latest Honda E prototype that is near production version. And so are we!
The Japanese automaker debuted the “kawai” car at the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed. It boasts a balanced 50:50 weight distribution and low centre of gravity, although a sports car it is not. Like the Little Engine that Could, you want it to make it all the way up the hill, no matter how long it takes.
The electric motor provides 148hp to the rear wheels and 221 lb-ft of torque sends the pint-sized car from zero to 100 in around eight seconds. The 35.5kWh battery can hold enough juice for 124 miles—that’s not a lot, but it charges rapidly to 80% in just half an hour. And with a 4.3-metre turning radius, the Honda E is shaping up to be perfect for zipping around the city.
The car dispenses with side mirrors and uses cameras that jut out considerably less; pop-up door handles are flush to the sides for a clean look overall. Whether all or what features make it to the production model has yet to be shared by the company.
The production version will be released later this year and in some lucky parts of Europe, pre-orders are already underway. However, if grapevine gossip is to be believed, the Honda E could cost up to €40,000, which is a lot to part with, even for a car as adorable as this.
