Honda wants to become an EV-only automaker in China by 2035, which is why it is tirelessly working on 10 new EVs coming by 2027. The first among those were closely previewed by the Honda e:NP2, e:NS2, and e:N SUV Prologue concepts in Shanghai, set to debut in the Chinese market in 2024.
The trio of concepts represents the second and third batches of Honda’s e:N series. They will be a follow-up to the HR-V-based e:NP1 / e:NS1 SUVs that debuted in 2021, and are expected to be joined by the production version of the e:N2 sedan.
Read: Honda e:N2 Concept Unveiled In China, Could Preview A Future EV
The e:NP2 and e:NS2 prototypes appear to be very close to production status. Honda has already confirmed that sales of the two models will commence in early 2024. The SUVs are sharing a large portion of their bodywork, albeit with different faces. The headlights of the e:NP2 are reminiscent of Renault, while the LED graphics and fangs of the e:NS2 are more similar to Peugeot. The profiles of the prototypes are virtually identical, looking like an evolution of the current HR-V / Vezel with sharper surfacing and stronger coupe-SUV vibes.
Honda didn’t reveal the specifications of the e:NP2 / e:NS2, but they will most likely ride on the same underpinnings featuring identical power outputs and battery capacities. The main difference is that the e:NP2 will be manufactured by GAC Honda, and the e:NS2 by Dongfeng Honda.
The Honda e:N SUV 序 (Prologue) concept looks like a fully electric equivalent to the ICE-powered CR-V / Breeze. Honda says it previews an undisclosed number of production models that will debut in China before the end of 2024 (likely two similar variations) and the first ones to be based on the new e:N Architecture W. The styling language is close to the e:NP2 / e:NS2, but slightly cleaner overall. The larger model features a sharper nose without a grille or intakes, slimmer full-width LED headlights, and boxier wheel arches.
The automaker also said that the new generation of e:N models will have “near-futuristic intelligence”, hinting at the latest AI-powered version of the Honda Connect infotainment and sophisticated ADAS functions. Honda promised fun driving dynamics and an uncluttered yet tech-filled interior.
Honda wants to exclusively offer EVs and FCEVs on a global scale by 2040, on the road to becoming a carbon-neutral brand by 2050.
