Honda to begin sale of commercial-use Mini-EV in Japan

Honda Motor Co is to begin sales in Japan of a new commercial-use mini-EV (electric vehicle), the N-VAN e on October 10, 2024. 

The N-VAN e: is a commercial-use mini-EV model developed by adding user-friendly features unique only to EVs to the petrol-powered N-VAN, which has been popular as a versatile vehicle that accommodates a broad range of customer needs for both commercial and recreational uses.

While maintaining popular N-VAN features such as a large cargo space realized by the flat, low floor and high ceiling and a large opening on the passenger side made possible by eliminating the centre pillar, the N-VAN e: features added value unique only to EVs, such as a power output function and a quiet cabin.

According to Honda, the N-VAN e achieves both a practical driving range as well as a large cargo space required for commercial use through the adoption of a large-capacity battery, downsizing of the eAxle, and by minimizing the space occupied by components through a centralized layout of high-voltage components.

The Mini-EV has a range of 245 kilometres (152 miles) on a single charge in WLTC mode, which is sufficient for a delivery service, one of the main commercial uses of EVs. Charging time is approximately 4.5 hours for normal charging (6.0 kW output) and 30 minutes for fast charging (50 kW output).

Moreover, the battery cooling and heating system inhibits battery performance degradation caused by the high or low temperatures, contributing to shorter charging time and longer range, especially during winter.

There will be four types of N-VAN e: to meet a wide range of customer needs for both commercial and personal use.