Honda revealed the MEV-Van concept, an experimental fully electric version of the N-Van light commercial vehicle, retrofitted with removable batteries. The concept will be tested in collaboration with Japan’s largest door-to-door delivery service company Yamato Transport, as a possible solution towards a carbon-neutral future.
Just like the regular-production Honda N-Van e: that was unveiled last month, the MEV-Van concept comes fitted with a fully electric powertrain. However, instead of featuring a fixed floor-mounted battery, the MEV-Van uses a number of Honda Mobile Power Pack e modules, that can be removed from the vehicle for charging. The modules are mounted under the cabin floor and can be easily accessed thanks to a set of hatches. The unconventional way of charging means that the MEV-Van doesn’t come with a charging port on the front grille. The company didn’t announce the range figures of the concept, which could be worse than the targeted 210 km (130 miles) range of the standard electric N-Van.
More: Honda And Mitsubishi To Repurpose EV Batteries For Storage Systems
This solution eliminates the need for a long standby time during charging, as the portable batteries can be swapped and charged independently throughout the day. It also helps reduce the imbalance in the peak power usage, since the batteries don’t have to be charged overnight as is the case with most conventional EVs. Furthermore, the company will use renewable energy generated by solar panels for charging the EV.
The demonstration will take place in November 2023 at the Gunma Prefecture of Japan. Initially, it will include a single Honda MEV-VAN, although multiple examples are planned for future trials. The goal is for the EV to be tested in collection and delivery operations, in order to prove that its performance, range, charging circles, and battery durability are sufficient for professional use. Before the trial begins, the Honda MEV-Van will be showcased at the Japan Mobility Show 2023.
Honda wants to become a carbon-neutral brand by 2050, as with the Yamato Group which is planning to acquire 20,000 EVs and install solar power in order to achieve that goal. Starting in June 2023, Honda and Yamamoto Group are trialing the N-Van e: ahead of its launch in the Japanese market in spring 2024.
