Honda Vezel/Honda HR-V-based Honda VE-1 EV unveiled in China

The Honda VE-1 is the production version of the Honda Everus EV Concept that debuted at Auto China 2018 in April. The zero-emission SUV is 4,308 mm long, 1,824 mm wide and 1,625 mm tall, with a 2,610 mm wheelbase. It sports 17-inch wheels shod with 215/55 R17 tyres.

The Honda VE-1 uses an electric motor that generates a maximum power of 120 kW (163.15 PS) at 400-11,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 280 Nm from 0-400 rpm. The electric motor, manufactured by JEE Automation Equipment, sources energy from a 53.6 kWh Lithium-ion battery pack that provides a driving range of 340 km (NEDC mode). The driver can select from three drive modes: N (normal/comfort), S (sport) and B (battery saver/economy).

The Honda VE-1 will enter production in December. Reachstar, the domestic car-sharing service provider funded by Honda, will use this model. For private customers, the pure electric SUV will cost 2,25,800 yuan (Rs 1 120 400). However, subsidies will reduce the cost significantly to 170,800 yuan (Rs 847 500). The Honda Vezel, for reference, costs 128,800 yuan (Rs 639 100) onwards.

The Honda VE-1 is a China-only pure electric model. As for a high-volume EV for global markets, Honda will launch the production Urban EV, a sub-compact hatchback, in 2019.