Tesla Cybertruck has been a bold move in the auto industry, especially because of the design. It's unconventional and out-of-the-box. But because of being headed over by Elon Musk, it makes sense! Well, Honda also decided to take the unconventional route with a trio of concept cars showcased at the Guangzhou Auto Show 2021. Called the e:N Series, the bunch consists of a GT car, a coupe, and an SUV.
These 3 concepts along with 2 production-ready offerings are China-only for now. But the reason why these cars are making headlines across the globe is because of the design language. The bold and sharp design cues along with thin LED lighting look to have been inspired by the Tesla Cybertruck. And frankly, if the e:N SUV Concept didn't have the "Honda" logo on it, we would have thought it to be an NIO, BAIC, or Geely.
The e:N SUV Concept is a Honda that doesn't look like one!
Part Of The First Wave Of e:N Series Vehicles For China
Honda showcased the e:N SUV Concept at Guangzhou Auto Show 2021 as part of a series of electric vehicles that are slated for launch in China. Apart from the e:N SUV, a coupe and GT were also showcased in the concept form. The trio was joined by production-ready e:NS1 and e:NP1 crossovers, which are all-electric versions of Honda HR-V. The whole e:N line-up is made by Honda in partnership with Dongfeng Honda and GAC Honda.
Looks Like Someone Got Inspired By The Cybertruck
The electrified HR-Vs look alright, but it's the trio of concepts that got us scratching heads! The SUV, GT, and coupe don't look anything like a "Honda". It is a bold and refreshing move by the Japanese automaker to turn over a full new leaf with EVs. But the concerning part is that all three seem to have been heavily inspired by the Tesla Cybertruck.
The sharp lines, odd and abrupt silhouette, thin fender profile, and the same stainless steel paint job; all point at a Tesla fanboy. The SUV with its demanding stance and gigantic wheels looks rather intimidating. This isn't the final design as those pointy cues will not go past the regulatory phase. This design language is e:N specific and is pretty loud for Honda that has stuck to being low-key when it comes to designs.
Powertrain Details Are Scarce But Expect Impressive Numbers
Powertrain details are scare for the e:N SUV Concept. But the production-ready e:NS1 and e:NP1 is slated to come with 311 miles of range on the Chinese test cycle and can do 0-62 MPH in less than 8 seconds. Li-Ion batteries are used here. Since the e:N Concepts are more on the premium side, we expect Honda to dial things up dramatically in performance, acceleration, and even speed.
"e:N" Summarises Honda's Vision Of Future Automobiles
Honda will use a dedicated e:N platform in the e:N SUV Concept. This is said to be an adaptive platform that can underpin anything from a sports coupe to s full-blown SUV. The "e" is indicative of technology and "N" for "new " and "next".
The interior will be minimal with clean flowing lines. And Honda will extensively integrate various technologies like Honda SENSING, Honda CONNECT, and Digital Cockpit technology. The Connected Car ideology is pretty strong here, and these cars will most likely pack autonomous driving tech.
Will This Cybertruck-Vibing Honda Launch Stateside?
It will be a long time before we see the production-ready guises of the trio of e:N badged Hondas. And as it is being made in collaboration with Chinese local entities, chances of the bold-looking Honda SUV along with the Coupe and GT coming to the States are very brim. But since Honda has pulled the plug on its last EV (Honda Clarity) in the US, things might fare differently in the far future.
Sources: Honda.com.cn, Global.honda, Insideevs.com, Carscoops.com,