The Honda SUV e:concept debuted in China this week signaling what’s ahead for a future mass-production model of the Honda brand’s first electric vehicle to be introduced in China. While what’s sold in China doesn’t always make it to American shores, there are a few things to be learned by taking a closer look at the concept.
We know that the vehicle’s powertrain is electric. How many motors? What type of battery? How much power? In a nutshell, we have no idea. However, that could be where Honda’s relationship with General Motors kicks in. A recent agreement to share platforms and co-build future vehicles builds on the electric vehicle platform sharing agreement the two automakers signed in April. In the first agreement agreement, Honda agreed to work with GM to develop two new electric vehicles based on GM’s global EV platform powered by Ultium batteries.
The sloping roofline of the concept is indicative of another Honda model.Photo courtesy of Honda
The concept’s sweeping looks are more crossover than SUV. While there’s plenty of doubt that the model will be a two-door vehicle when it arrives in showrooms, its overall aesthetic is new for Honda, though it has hints of the current-generation CR-V and Accord in its nose.
The roofline of the SUV and side profile look a lot like the 2020 Honda Avancier, a true crossover that got its start as a station wagon and now sits as the company’s flagship in China. If indeed this model is an electric Avancier, it means that the U.S. market is unlikely to see it.
From a business perspective, this makes sense. Electric vehicles are not nearly as popular in the U.S. as they are in China and Europe, where they have been regulated into residents’ lifestyles. Additionally, the U.S. electric vehicle charging infrastructure leaves much to be desired.
Cars built for the Chinese market also do not have to meet the same strict safety testing standards as American vehicles so they can be made for less and sold for less. Upping to U.S. standards costs more and, when shipping and taxes are added in, the model may be priced out of sensibility for American Honda customers.
Wherever it’s destined to go, the Honda will be a mass-production electric vehicle.
The company is committed to equipping the car with a number of safety technologies including omnidirectional advanced driver assistance systems, the next-generation Honda SENSING safety and driver-assistive system with improved recognition, predication and decision-making performance, as well as the next-generation Honda Connect, which features an AI assistant interface, smartphone link, and wireless updates.
The model features a unique black end with slim lights.Photo courtesy of Honda
Expect to see the next steps in the evolution of this concept in the coming year, even if it’s just in spy photos.
