New Honda EV previewed ahead of Beijing motor show

Honda will use the upcoming Beijing motor show to preview its new EV concept, the design of which is expected to pave the way for a production model. It will be the first fully electric model from the brand to go on sale in China.

• New concept EV appears to be either a sedan or crossover
• First fully electric Honda to go on sale in China
• To offer greater range than current Honda E hatchback

What do we know about the new concept EV?

Details of the new concept car, which has been teased with a CGI rendering of its front-end design, remain scarce. We can see, however, that it is larger than the Honda E, appearing to be either a sedan or low-height crossover. Both bodystyles are popular in East Asian markets.

What is it going to look like?

The car's design appears to move to a less retro-themed approach than its supermini stablemate, instead taking a more futuristic look. A blanked-off grille is also visible, as is becoming common in EVs, due to them not requiring as much front-end air cooling as their combustion-engined equivalents. 

When can we see one in showrooms?

The as-yet-unnamed model isn't yet confirmed for production, but it's likely, given that Honda doesn't have a full EV offering of any sort in China. However, a European debut isn't likely for the model, with the brand focusing instead on gaining a foothold in Asian markets. 

How far will it be able to travel on a full charge?

Given the car's increased size and the hugely competitive EV market in China, expect it to offer significantly greater range than the quoted maximum of 219km of the E. Official details will be announced when the Beijing motor show begins on September 26. 

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