The e:N1 e-SUV incidentally marks the first fully-electric Honda to ever be sold in Malaysia.
Honda Malaysia has finally taken its tentative first step into the fully-electric segment with the recent launch of its e:N1 e-SUV, which could be yours over here for RM 149,900. A price which while people might scoff at by being a good chunk more than the RM 100k+ BYD and Protons, is actually not all that far off what the current HR-V is selling for…
First shown off locally at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) late last year, the e:N1 could most basically be thought of as an all-electric version of its HR-V. This battery-powered compact crossover was incidentally first launched in China back in 2021 as the e:NS1 (aka e:Ny1 in Europe), and the units that we’re getting over here are also fully imported from the world’s current biggest auto market as well.
Now while it may look (very much) like a HR-V on the outside, this e:N1 is based upon a totally different e:N Architecture F platform. Take a tape measure to it and it’ll be clear too that this e-crossover is 57 mm longer and 2 mm higher than its fuel-drinking counterpart, with it also differing slightly within by way of a new 15.1-inch portrait-oriented central infotainment screen (with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity) dominating its dashboard.
Other notable changes featured on the e:N1 over the ICE-equipped HR-V include ‘Honda’ script spelled out across the tailgate and a new white H badge up front to signify its EV status. This e-SUV also features a push button-type gear selector and a 10.25-inch fully digital driver’s display inside, but unfortunately loses the petrol-powered counterpart’s iconic Ultra Seats.
Propulsion in the e:N1 is handled by a front-mounted motor that produces 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque, which for those who care is actually slightly more than what is output by the 1.5-litre turbo four-pot in its petrol-powered lookalike. Honda currently quotes a decent 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.7 seconds for this e-SUV, with it eventually maxing out at 160 km/h.
For power storage meanwhile, the e:N1 comes equipped with a 68.8 kWh battery pack, which Honda claims can deliver a WLTP-rated range of 412 km (or 500 km on the more lenient NEDC cycle). This battery pack supports up to 11 kW AC and 78 kW DC charging, with the former enabling a six-hour full charge, while the latter offers a 45-minute 10-80% top-up.
Standard kit on the e:N1 includes a full suite of LED lights on the outside (including sequential front turn signals), as well as a set of multi-spoke 18-inch dual-tone alloys. The interior features leather upholstery, an eight-way powered front driver’s seat, dual-zone air-conditioning with rear AC vents, an auto-dimming rear view mirror, blue interior ambient lighting and door line illumination. Additionally, it comes with a six-speaker audio system, a 15-watt wireless mobile phone charger and four USB ports.
On the safety front, the e:N1 is equipped with six airbags, VSA, hill start assist, front/rear parking sensors, a reverse camera and a reverse auto tilt feature for the side view mirrors. It also comes with Honda Sensing, which brings along Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation System with Lane Departure Warning (RDM with LDW), Auto High-Beam (AHB), Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow (ACC with LSF) and Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN). Rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitor are also included (interestingly, no Honda LaneWatch is available).
Three exterior hues are available for the e:N1: Platinum White Pearl, Aqua Topaz Metallic and Urban Grey Pearl. Interestingly for a Honda, there are two also a choice of two interior colours: black or off-white, with the latter being specific to the Aqua Topaz Metallic exterior.
The e:N1 is currently offered with an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) on the electric vehicle battery and electric drive system. For added peace of mind, the Honda Insurance Plus (HiP EV) package is also available for the e:N1, providing Additional EV Benefits including coverage for damage or injury while using public EV chargers, protection for EV home wall charger against fire, lightning, theft or natural disasters, coverage for loss or damage to the portable charging cable, and personal liability coverage for bodily injury or damage to third-party property arising from the use of the EV home wall charger.
Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Narushi Yazaki said, “We have been at the forefront of innovation, bringing advanced technologies to Malaysians. This journey began with IMA in 2004, and continued with VTEC Turbo in 2016, i-DCD in 2017, and e:HEV technology in 2020. We strive to draw strength from our history as we continue to power the future.”
“Building on this foundation, Honda Malaysia is on the right track in navigating the market with our Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and e:HEV models, which remain highly relevant today. At the same time, we are committed to offering a diverse lineup that caters to evolving customer needs. Ensuring a ‘Fun-To-Drive’ experience is key to all our technological developments, and our new BEV will certainly uphold this tradition,” he added.
While an exact number was not specified, Honda Malaysia said that the e:N1 will be available only in a limited quantity, with the above pricing being on a first-come, first-served basis.
