When Honda introduced its electric mini-hatchback ‘e’, it said there would be no performance versions. Chief Engineer Kohei Hitomi argued that the ‘e’ prioritized modern tech over sheer performance and handling. A few days ago, Assistant Large Project Leader Takahiro Shinya contradicted his colleague.
He pointed out that the Type R is an iconic series that the Honda engineering crew enjoys designing and would like to expand until it covers the company’s entire lineup – as long as there is sufficient market demand, of course.
Since the Honda e comes based on its own platform designed from scratch, developing a performance version might take a long time – perhaps a couple years.
In its most basic form, the Honda e comes powered by a single rear-axle-mounted engine rated at 136 hp (100 kW) and 315 Nm (232 lb-ft) of torque. Another version exists with 154 hp (115 kW) reaching the wheels. Both are limited to 220 kilometers (136 miles) of range.
Sales in Europe will begin this summer with prices expected to start at €33,470.