Honda unveils an adorable, compact electric van designed for the Japanese market

Honda is strategically targeting the kei van market segment in Japan to increase electric vehicle sales in the country, with the introduction of the electric N-Van e:. These compact vans are highly popular in Japan due to their versatility in navigating city streets and can be used for various purposes, whether carrying cargo or passengers.

Initially unveiled in December 2022, the N-Van e: is based on a three-cylinder van introduced in Japan back in 2018. While the overall design remains largely unchanged over the past year and a half, different trim levels offer unique design elements. For example, the e: FUN variant features round LED inserts in the headlights with a touch of heritage, and comes in a range of trim-specific colors.

The N-Van e: lineup includes four trim levels – e: L4, e: FUN, e: G, and e: L2, each catering to different customer needs. The e: L4 and FUN models offer four seats, designed to suit both commercial and leisure users, with the FUN model featuring a more upscale interior. The e: G model has one seat and a revamped dashboard for carrying longer items, while the e: L2 model adopts a tandem seating arrangement with two seats.

While full specifications are not yet available, the N-Van e: is equipped with a single electric motor powering the front wheels and a battery pack capable of providing up to 152 miles of range. This range is ideal for city driving, where kei vans are commonly used for quick deliveries. Honda has also ensured that the van retains its spacious trunk for practicality.

Pricing for the N-Van e: ranges from ¥2,439,800 to ¥2,919,400, roughly translating to $15,600 to $18,600 at the current exchange rate. In comparison, the gas-powered N-Van has a starting price of ¥1,365,100 (approximately $8,700). This competitive pricing, combined with the efficiency and versatility of the N-Van e:, makes it an attractive option for both commercial and leisure users in Japan.