Honda may have scaled back its plans for its own electric vehicles in North America, but that doesn't mean it has given up on electric mobility in other markets. The proof of this is called the Super-N, a new electric city car that has already been officially unveiled and promises to combine a competitive price, retro styling, and a more enjoyable driving experience than usual in the segment.
A compact electric with global ambition
The new Honda Super-N has been confirmed for “selected global markets,” with the United Kingdom being the first destination. And there is one detail that makes it immediately relevant: the entry price is expected to be below £20,000, equivalent to about $26,900.
In an increasingly underserved market for affordable electric vehicles, this positioning gives the Super-N a strong argument right from the start.
Based on a kei car, but with its own identity
Technically, the Super-N is based on the Honda N-One, a small Japanese kei car. The brand has transformed this base into an electric model, also widening the body to give it a more solid and distinct presence.
The result is a compact car with a very distinctive image, inspired by historical Honda models and clearly aimed at an audience that values design and character.
Modest power, but with a “boost” to liven things up
The electric motor delivers 63 hp, a modest figure, but the system includes a boost mode that temporarily raises the power to 94 hp. Honda has not yet revealed official acceleration or top speed figures, but the focus of this model seems to be more on agility and the urban driving experience than on pure performance.
Driving with more emotion than usual
One of the most interesting elements of the Super-N is the attempt to make the driving experience more engaging. The model features simulated gear shifts and artificial combustion engine sounds, a solution designed to add more excitement behind the wheel.
According to those who have already experienced prototypes of this technology, the system is surprisingly convincing and adds personality to the whole.
Short range, but aligned with the proposal
The announced range is 128 miles in the WLTP cycle, which corresponds to about 206 kilometers. Although this is not an impressive figure, it fits the proposal of a city car, designed for short trips and daily use.
The battery has not been officially detailed yet, but all indications suggest that it should be around 29 kWh.
Retro look as a major asset
Aesthetically, the Super-N confidently embraces its retro inspiration. Although it derives from a model that has existed for several years in Japan, the final result maintains a fresh image, especially thanks to the widened body kit, which evokes iconic Honda cars from the 80s, such as the City Turbo.
It is precisely in this combination of nostalgia, simplicity, and originality that the Super-N seems to find its greatest strength.
An unlikely electric vehicle for the US, but with space in Europe
Its arrival in the United States seems highly unlikely. The small dimensions, limited power, and short range do not fit the average North American taste, especially in a market where even similar models have faced difficulties.
In Europe, on the other hand, the context is much more favorable. The Super-N positions itself directly against other compact and affordable electric vehicles that are gaining traction, benefiting from a format more suited to cities and a potentially competitive price.
Honda finds a new way to be in the electric market
Even without a large-scale electric offensive in all markets, Honda shows with the Super-N that it still knows how to create different and appealing products. In a segment where there are few affordable, lightweight, and distinctive proposals, this small electric vehicle could become a significant surprise.
If it delivers on its promises, the Super-N could be one of the most interesting cases of the year among urban electric vehicles.