Honda reveals e compact electric car and battery details

Honda has announced the details of the chassis, battery and charging details for the highly anticipated e compact electric car. Designed from the ground up, it's the first Honda to be built on a dedicated EV platform. The car will feature a water-cooled 35.5 kWh Lithium-ion high-capacity battery that can be charged using either Type 2 AC connection or a CCS2 DC rapid charge.

With the battery positioned centrally at a low level within the wheelbase under the floor of the car, the result is a 50:50 weight distribution, a low centre of gravity for optimal handling. Power from the high-torque electric motor is delivered through the rear wheels allowing for better steering feel. When combined with its compact size and short overhang, the Honda e is claimed to deliver a good amount of agility to make city driving effortless. The 35.5 kWh Lithium-ion high-capacity battery can be charged using either Type 2 AC connection or a CCS2 DC rapid charger. With a full range of over 200kms, the fast-charge capability allows for 80 per cent charge in 30 minutes.

The battery pack is water-cooled to maintain an optimum thermal state, therefore maximising the efficiency of the battery and charge state, while also ensuring its size and weight are minimised so that it does not compromise cabin room. Honda’s new compact electric car is a key part of the brand’s latest electrification commitment to feature electrified technology in 100 per cent of its European sales by 2025. Presented in prototype form at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the first production battery electric vehicle for the European market will make its mass production debut later this year.