Honda Releases a Car for the Future, a Car for E:Ny1

Here at Cox Motor Parts, we always look forward to the latest additions to the Honda family. As one of the best places to find Honda parts online for the UK, we’re always delighted to see the range grow. Over the last two decades, Honda has consistently delivered a lineup of popular car models that have impressed automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

Notable vehicles include the reliable and efficient Honda Civic, the versatile Honda CR-V, the sporty Honda Accord and the eco-friendly hybrid Honda Insight. Of course, we can’t not mention the compact Honda Jazz, the current most purchased car from Honda in the UK, and the thrilling hot hatch Honda Civic Type R, which also garnered widespread acclaim for their performance and practicality, further cementing Honda’s reputation as a leading car manufacturer.

Today, we’re excited to discover the Honda E:Ny1—a five-door, Chinese-built SUV that’s making waves in the world of electric vehicles and resembling the much-loved Honda HR-V compact hybrid SUV in size and style. The E:Ny1 has spent a successful year in the Chinese market under the name Honda Dongfeng E:NS1 and is now ready to make its mark in the UK.

The E:Ny1 and Everyone Car

Built on Honda’s state-of-the-art E:N Architecture F platform, the E:Ny1 boasts a reliable front-wheel drive system perfect for tackling UK roads. At its core lies a powerful 68.8kWh lithium-ion pack with a usable capacity of 61.9kWh. All this, coupled with a DC permanent-magnet motor supplying an impressive 201bhp and 229lb ft of torque, the E:Ny1 promises not just practicality but also enjoyment for those who love driving their Hondas.

Understanding the concerns of electric vehicle owners, Honda has equipped the E:Ny1 with versatile charging options. When using a 100kW direct current (DC) fast-charger station and plugged into the cars fast charge CCS (Combined Charging System) port, the E:Ny1’s powerful yet compact 68.8kWh battery can top up to a 60 mile charge in just 11 minutes and charge up to 10-80% in approximately 45 minutes. Alternatively, using a public AC charging station can take approximately 6 hours to charge the 68kWh battery from 10-80% using an 11kW AC charger.

Pricing and Trims

With so many new electric vehicles coming onto the market, making a choice based on this feature alone is no longer a limited factor. In fact, as of the end of June 2023, there are over 810,000 fully electric cars on UK roads. The price of converting from a diesel or petrol car to an electric one can start from £22,000 and go anywhere to £150,000 or more depending on the additional extras.

So how much can you expect to pay for the E:Ny1? Honda is known for being the everyman’s middle-ground car. They aren’t your basement budget cars but they aren’t trying to be the next Lamborghini. However, this electric range of cars seems to be aiming for higher positions. The base Elegance model is now available for £44,995, whereas the Advance model, packed with additional features, is priced at £47,195. These prices put the E:Ny1 in direct competition with popular electric offerings such as the Tesla Model Y, Polestar 2, and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Interior and Features

The Honda E:Ny1’s interior offers a contemporary design that marries style and practicality. It successfully blends a minimalist feel with intuitive, easy-to-use features.

Digital Displays

At the driver’s disposal, a 15.1-inch portrait touchscreen takes centre stage on the dashboard. The touchscreen uses Honda’s proprietary infotainment system and offers a selection of customisable “gadgets” or widgets for easy access to the most used settings or information. Situated behind the wheel is a digital instrument panel providing essential information for the driver, such as speed, range, and navigation instructions when needed.

Seating and Storage

The five-seater SUV features comfortable fabric seats in the base Elegance model. In contrast, the Advance model offers premium leather seating and heated front seats and steering wheel. A spacious interior includes ample head and legroom for both the driver and the passengers, with the driver seat offering 8-way electrical adjustment for complete comfort on any journey.

The E:Ny1 also provides flexible storage solutions with 60/40 split rear seatbacks that can be folded down. With the seats up, there’s a functional 361 litres of boot space. When the rear seats are folded, the boot space expands to an impressive 1,176 litres – perfect for carrying luggage or transporting larger items.

Ambient Lighting and Additional Features

To enhance the slick, futuristic feel of the car, ambient lighting subtly highlights interior features, casting a soft glow that can be adjusted based on personal preference. There are also practical features like wireless charging, a multifunctional steering wheel, and Honda’s Personal Assistant—a voice-activated system.

Element of Luxury

Despite not being a luxury brand, Honda manages to bring a hint of luxury to the E:Ny1 with features often found in high-end models. These include a panoramic sunroof (available in the Advance model), semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and a premium sound system that delivers immersive audio quality.

The interior of the Honda E:Ny1 continues to strike a balance between comfort, functionality, and modern design, which exudes a sense of refinement and sophistication.

A Few Teething Issues?

While the Honda E:Ny1 offers numerous impressive features, it has faced some criticism. The most notable issue appears to be its limited range and charging, which could be problematic for frequent long-distance drivers or those with limited charging access. Some users felt the steering was numb, influencing the overall driving experience.

Additionally, the E:Ny1’s relatively high price tag compared to its feature set has been pointed out. Despite these limitations, the Honda E:Ny1 remains a highly regarded model in the compact electric crossover class, and given the continuous advancements in EV technology, its limitations could be temporary.

Honda’s Sustainability Goals

Remember that Honda is proactively working towards becoming carbon-neutral by 2050, with an ambitious target of selling two million electric cars annually by 2030. This significant leap forward should make any Honda enthusiast proud, as we witness the brand’s strides in sustainability efforts.

With a powerful battery, flexible charging options, and an array of interior features, the Honda E:Ny1 makes an enticing entrance into the electric SUV market. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making any decisions, and as always, Cox Motor Parts is here to support you with a wide range of genuine Honda parts and accessories for your beloved vehicle.