The EV Honda HR-V that goes by the name e:NS1 is now on sale in China from RM 116k

• Based on the all-new HR-V
• First of 10 new e:N electric models to be launched in China
• Choice of 2 motors with ranges of 420 km and 510 km

Honda plans on going all-electric in China by 2030 and that calls for a complete revamp of its portfolio in the Central Kingdom. That move entails 10 new electric models under the e:N badge with the first of them being the e:NS1 and its twin e:NP1 going on sale there in the spring of 2022. The duo are based on the new HR-V.

If you’re thinking the e:NS1 and e:NP1 looks like the new Honda HR-V in snazzier clothes and prefer being referred to by their Star Wars android names, you’re not wrong. They are indeed electrified versions of the HR-V and both are identical save for the fact that each model will be sold by two joint venture partners of Honda in China; Dongfeng Honda and GAC Honda respectively.

Previewed back at the Auto Shanghai 2021, the e:NS1 sits on the e:N Architecture F platform and with a lot more gizmos than the regular HR-V.

Also Read: The Honda e:NS1 is the electric HR-V that marks the beginning of the end of VTEC in China

Exterior wise, the e:NS1 looks just like the HR-V but with that typical covered grille seen on all EVs. Even at the rear, its pretty much a copy and paste job with the addition of the Honda script badged in full across the tailgate.

It measures 4,390 mm long, 1,790 mm wide and 1,560 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,610 mm.

They’ve even gone with a retro-styled font to purportedly remind us that it’s still as cool as its internal combustion engine siblings.

If you’re thinking the interior is a copy and paste job like the HR-V, that’s where you’re wrong. Things have gone full futuristic with physical knobs and controllers replaced by a massive 15.1-inch portrait-style infotainment screen running on Honda’s e:N operating system (OS).

Also Read: 2022 Honda HR-V to launch in Malaysia after June - VTEC Turbo, e:HEV hybrid hinted

Of course there’s also a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster because how can you have a modern EV with analogue gauges right?

Most of the controls usually found have now been integrated into the display. The new software will contain Sensing 360 and Connect 3.0 systems as well as being able to link to your smart devices at home.

One of the few physical buttons still left in the cabin is the hazard light switch but that’s most likely due to regulations or else many carmakers would have made it a relic of the past as well.

Even the physical gear lever is gone, replaced by a push-button selector but this isn’t something new in the industry but it does go a long way in pushing the futuristic nuance of EVs.

As for the powertrain, details still aren’t set in stone but reports indicate the base e:NS1 will have a 182 PS and 310 Nm electric motor on the front axle with power from a 53.6 kWh lithium-ion battery. That makes it good for a range of 420 km.

Also Read: All-electric 2023 Honda HR-V and CR-V PHEV next in line to lead Honda’s electrified revolution for Europe

A more premium trim will see 510 km of range from a 204 PS and 310 Nm motor fed by a 68.8 kWh battery pack.

Charging rates see power climb from 30 percent to 80 percent in just 40 minutes while a slower charge will take 9 hours to get from 5 percent to 100 percent.

Pricing for the e:NS1 is around the 175,000 Yuan (RM 115,660) to 218,000 Yuan (RM 143,080) range.

Also Read: 2022 Honda HR-V has 3 engine options: e:HEV, i-VTEC, VTEC Turbo, which is best for Malaysia?

While the e:NS1 and its twin is a sole China offering, don’t be surprised to see it introduced in overseas markets down the road.

As Honda has made clear that China will be the hub for its new e:N Series models with both JV partners; Dongfeng Honda and GAC Honda, agreeing to build a dedicated EV plant by 2024.