Honda e:N1 electric SUV launched in Thailand at RM157k, Malaysia debut soon?

KUALA LUMPUR: Honda is taking significant strides in electrifying its lineup across Southeast Asia, and the fully electric Honda e:N1 SUV has just entered an exciting new chapter in the Thai market.

Previously available only through a leasing scheme offered by Honda's Rojana plant, the e:N1 is now officially listed for direct purchase on Honda Thailand’s website, priced attractively at 1,199,000 Thai Baht (approximately RM156,500).

Fully imported from Dongfeng Honda's advanced manufacturing facility in China, the e:N1 arrives in Thailand with its technical prowess intact.

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At the heart of this stylish electric SUV is a robust electric motor, delivering an impressive 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque. Its substantial 68.8 kWh battery promises a driving range of up to 500 km per charge under the NEDC testing standard, assuring drivers ample mileage for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike.

Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the versatility provided by the e:N1’s selectable drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—which tailor throttle response and energy efficiency to match personal driving preferences and conditions.

Whether seeking the thrill of acceleration or maximizing range, the e:N1 has the adaptability covered.

Inside the cabin, the Honda e:N1 underscores its modern, digital-centric approach. Dominating the interior experience is an expansive 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, perfectly complemented by a crisp 10.24-inch digital instrument panel, making critical vehicle and navigation information easily accessible.

Convenience features such as wireless smartphone charging and an electronic gear selector further amplify the futuristic feel. Notably absent from this version, however, is the panoramic sunroof often favored in premium variants.

Elsewhere in the region, Honda Indonesia continues to approach the electric market differently, offering the e:N1 under the "Honda Electric Experience" subscription model.

For 22 million Indonesian Rupiah per month over five years (around RM5.8k), customers receive full ownership options bundled with comprehensive support, highlighting Honda’s flexibility in catering to diverse market demands.

As interest grows in Malaysia, speculation surrounds the local assembly prospects for the e:N1, typically expected given Honda Malaysia's robust localization strategy.

When recently queried on local production possibilities, Honda Malaysia remained cautiously reserved, promising more concrete details in due course.

Regardless of whether assembly happens locally or through regional partners like Thailand, Honda Malaysia confirms that the e:N1 will certainly be launched domestically.

Essentially the electric counterpart to the popular HR-V—marketed in Europe as the e:Ny1—the e:N1 rides on Honda’s advanced e:N Architecture F platform.

This platform emphasizes a high-rigidity structure, improved aerodynamics, and a strategically low center of gravity, collectively ensuring superior driving dynamics.

Under WLTP standards, the e:N1 boasts an official range of up to 412 km per charge. Impressively, the SUV supports rapid DC fast charging, allowing battery replenishment from 10% to 80% in just 45 minutes—adding to its practicality and appeal.

Inside, beyond technical specifications, the most striking divergence from its petrol-powered HR-V siblings is undoubtedly its futuristic infotainment display.

Designed to highlight vehicle electrification data vividly, this large digital interface reinforces the SUV’s modern and sustainable identity.

Looking ahead to 2025, Honda Malaysia is gearing up for an expansive product rollout alongside an intensified focus on enhancing after-sales services and accelerating digital transformation.

Clearly, the introduction of the e:N1 represents just one facet of Honda's ambitious roadmap towards electrification and innovation in the region.

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