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The Honda e Ultimate Guide: Everything to Know About This Electric City Car That's Both Practical & Fun

Added: 03 April 2024


Welcome to the next generation. Not only has Honda been a leader in automotive technology for decades now, its latest offering - the Honda e - is by no far an exception. This all-electric vehicle is not only eco-friendly, packed full of the latest technology, and also affordable; but, also stylish and very fun to drive.

Worried about having to stop for a long period should you need more charge on a longer journey? Fear not, the rapid charging facility of the Honda e can be completed in just 31 minutes, from a low battery to 80% charge on a 50kW charger. This then allows you the perfect pitstop time for a coffee and a rest before getting back on the road as soon as possible.


Currently available in a choice of 5 exterior colours, you can configure your new Honda e to suit your preferred style. There are exceptional futuristic design elements included on this new Honda electric car including pop out door handles, a side camera mirror system and a modern minimalist cabin.

Intrigued? Then let's take a closer look at what makes the Honda e such an exciting addition to the world of electric cars, and why this is your next city car.

Table of contents

Design and Styling

With its beautiful, uncluttered, contemporary and simple design, one of the first things that catches your eye when you see the Honda e is its simplistic, retro-inspired design. This city car is clearly inspired by the classic Honda Civics of the 1970s, with a boxy shape, round headlights, and a clean, uncluttered look. However, the Honda e also incorporates some modern design elements, such as:

  • 16 inch and 17 inch alloy wheels
  • Console illumination lighting
  • Doorstep garnishes such as the Honda e logo
  • Flush door handles
  • Forward facing camera
  • Front and rear body mouldings
  • Front under spoiler black touch
  • Illuminated doorstep garnishes
  • LED lighting
  • Recessed lights for your passengers
  • Side body trims
  • Voice activated personal assistant

* not all design features are available on all models.

Inside, the Honda e is just as stylish as the exterior. The dashboard is dominated by not just one, but, five screens, running the full length of the dashboard. Including two 12.3 inch displays that serve as the instrument panel and infotainment system. Two screens, one on either side of the car to show your cars in your wing mirrors, and another display directly behind the steering wheel giving you all your instruments and speed readouts.

The interior is also finished in sustainable materials, such as wood and recycled plastics, giving the car both an environmental friendly as well as a high level premium feel.

Pictures of the Honda e

Honda e White rear Honda e grey front Honda e grey rear

Performance and Range

If any environment was designed for electric driving - city spaces are it. The first thing to factor in is that the Honda e comes with Zero emissions - which means you will not have to worry about the, ever increasing, areas putting in congestion charges.
Despite its compact size, the Honda e also has some impressive performance figures - it is no slouch. Firstly, it is powered by a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery that then drives an electric motor mounted on the rear axle. This motor produces 152 horsepower and 232 lb of torque. In short, this is more than plenty of power for you to nip around town.

Put this with the fact that the Honda e can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, then you have a car that not only looks impressive and futuristic; but, also gives you the power when you need it at the same time. There is no surprise why it has won so many awards.

What is the Honda e's battery capacity?

The Honda e's battery has a total capacity of 35.5 kWh, and means that its battery pack gives you a full range of up to 137 miles on a single charge - which makes it ideal for both commuting and city driving. The battery pack has been optimised specially for the car's small size.


How long does it take to charge the Honda e?

Charging times vary depending on the power of the charger; however, the Honda e can be charged to 80% capacity in as little as 30 minutes using a fast charger. When it comes to charging the Honda e, it can be charged simply by using a standard household outlet or a dedicated EV wall charger.

Honda e White front charging Honda e white charger

Does the Honda e support fast charging and what is the difference between fast & standard charging?

Yes, the Honda e also supports fast charging. Fast charging allows drivers to charge the battery up to 80% in just 30 minutes when paired with a fast EV charger. To get a full 100% charge takes around 4.1 hours using a 6.6 KW charger, or 18.8 hours if you have a Home AC Type 2 2.3 KW charger.

What is the power output of the Honda e's electric motor?

The Honda e is powered by an electric motor that produces 152 HP as well as 232 lb-ft of torque.

How far can the Honda e go on a single charge?

The Honda e has a maximum range of up to 137 miles on a single charge. Obviously, this is with ideal driving conditions, and taking your driving style into consideration. For instance, in winter and cold conditions - as well as speedy driving - may reduce this total range a little. That said, the Honda e's range and performance are constantly optimised by the car itself. This is due to the built in smart battery system which keeps the batteries at that optimum operating temperature, to give you the maximum lifespan and operational efficiency via a in-built liquid cooling system.

Can the Honda e be charged at home?

Yes, the Honda e can be charged using a standard household outlet; however, it is highly recommended that you have a dedicated EV charger installed at home for faster charging.


What awards and accolades has the Honda e won?

Given that the Honda e has only been out for a few years (at the time of writing) you wouldn't think that it would have built up a lot of awards. Well now is the time to think again, as it has picked up a huge amount of awards in its short history already. Some of these accolades include:

  • 2021 Best Small Electric Car at the What Car? Awards
  • 2021 German Car of the Year Award at the GCOTY Awards
  • 2021 Eco Best Award at the Autobest 20231 Awards
  • 2021 World Urban Car of the Year at the 2021 World Car Awards
  • 2021 Product Design Award at the Red Dot Design Awards
  • 2020 Special Award at the Car of the Year Japan Awards
  • 2020 City Car of the Year Award at the Auto Express New Car Awards
  • 2020 Electric Car of the Year Award at the Top Gear Awards
  • 2020 City Car of the Year Award at the 2020 evo Car of the Year awards
  • 2020 Excellent Product Design - Transportation Award at the German Design Awards
  • 2020 Production Cars at the Car Design Awards
  • 2020 New Car Award at the AutoTrader New Car Awards
  • 2020 Electric Vehicle of the Year Award at the Stuff Gadget Awards
  • 2020 Urban Car Award at the Women's World Car of the Year Awards
  • 2020 Best New Design Award at the 2020 Auto Zeitung Auto Trophy awards
  • 2020 Best Design Award at the Golden Steering Wheel Awards
  • 2020 City / Small Car of the Year Award at the Motor Awards

Technology and Connectivity

The Honda e features a state-of-the-art infotainment system with not just one; but, two 12.3 inch displays. This entertainment system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto - so you can easily connect your smartphone to the car and use your ideal apps. The Honda e also comes with a range of other tech features, such as a 360-degree camera system, a digital rearview mirror, and a voice-controlled personal assistant to name only a few.

Does the Honda e come with the Rear Camera Mirror System, and how does this work?

Yes, it does. The Honda e can come with a Rear Camera Mirror System. This system can be set in two ways. One being a traditional mirror view. The second, in the event of you getting a tall passenger in the rear seat - or the back window stacked with shopping - and your view of the rear via the mirror is blocked, you can switch over to camera mode.

With camera mode, you get a clear digital image of the rear view of your car shown directly in the rear view mirror - as if the items weren't even there. The Honda e accomplishes this by switching to the rear view camera view positioned on the rear exterior of the car. This camera even has anti-glare built in for night driving. Meaning that, if a driver has their full beam turned on, you won't be dazzled by them by using this feature. If you are being dazzled by them from using your traditional mirror, switching to this view means the dazzle will also stop; as the camera will "de-glare" it for you.

How do you connect Android Auto to a Honda e?

Connecting Android Auto to your Honda e couldn't be easier and can be done in 3 steps. These include:

  1. Turn your Honda e on and use a USB cable to connect your phone to the USB port in the centre console of the Honda e
  2. On the Honda e's infotainment screen, select the Smartphone Connection option. Next select Android Auto
  3. Follow the prompts on the screen to set up Android Auto, and that completes your set up

How do you connect Apple CarPlay to a Honda e?

Just like connecting Android Auto, connecting Apple Carplay to your Honda e couldn't be easier and is also done in only 3 steps. These include:

  1. Turn your Honda e on and use a Lightning cable to connect your iPhone to the USB port in the centre console of the Honda e
  2. On the Honda e's infotainment screen, select the Smartphone Connection option. Next select Apple CarPlay
  3. Follow the prompts on the screen to set up Apple CarPlay, and that is all you need to do

Can you use your smartphone as a Digital Key on the new Honda e?

Yes, traditional keys are a thing of the past. You now have the ability to use your smartphone as a Digital Key. With this, you can automatically lock, unlock, and start your car just from having your phone on you.


Advanced Safety Features

Like all Honda cars, the Honda e is no exception and comes with a huge range of advanced safety features that come with the Honda Sensing system. These safety features include:

Adaptive Cruise Control ACC

With the Adaptive Cruise Control System, you set the speed and the Honda e will keep to that speed automatically for you. If another vehicle then gets in front of your car, or you come to a set of lights, or a roundabout, then the Honda e can even apply braking pressure to keep you a safe distance from the car in front

Blind Spot Detection System

The Blind Spot Detection System, keeps a protective eye out on the road behind you. This feature can then notify you when cars are approaching in your blind spot, to allow you time to stop; or consider pausing changing lanes until the other vehicle, that you may not have seen, has passed you.

Collision Mitigation Braking System

When it comes to the Collision Mitigation Braking System the car will automatically apply the brakes when it detects a collision is imminent that you may not have been able to avoid otherwise.

Honda e White on the road Honda e white front on city

Lane Keeping Assist System

With the Lane Keeping Assist System your Honda e will monitor where you are in your lane. If it then detects lane drift it can then apply corrective measures to help to prevent a collision from occurring with the car in the lane next to you.

Road Departure Mitigation System

When it comes to the Road Departure Mitigation System, if the car determines you are about to leave the road entirely, it will apply corrective measures such as counter steering and braking to keep you on the road.

Traffic Sign Recognition System

For those times when you missed the road speed limit, or it isn't 100% clear, then this system is for you. The Traffic Sign Recognition System, can read traffic signs in real time then display this information back to you in the cabin, keeping you always up to date with the speed of the road you are on, and more.

Auto High Beam Headlights System

With the Auto High Beam Headlights System the Honda e can detect a vehicle is in front of you, be it cars in your lane, or oncoming traffic, and switches between high and low beam automatically. Allowing you to focus more on night driving and the roads conditions, over having to control the car's headlights.

Lead Car Departure Notification System

With the Honda E's Lead Car Departure Notification System, the car will notify you if the car in front has pulled away and you are still stationary. This is really useful in places, such as traffic lights.

What is the Honda Parking Pilot, and can the Honda e come with it?

Firstly, yes, it can come with it on the Honda e Advance model. Secondly, the Honda Parking Pilot uses a mixture of cameras and sonar sensors to allow you to auto-park your car with ease. You can see more how this works in this video.


What is the Honda e Side Camera Mirror System?

The Honda e has done away with the traditional wing mirrors and instead replaced them with their new Side Camera Mirror technology. This has many benefits such as, reduced drag which helps to improve the battery life and reduced wind noise. All the while, giving you a wide side angled view of the side of the car, even more than what you can get with traditional wing mirrors. This alone helps to improve your blind spot detection.

The view from the side cameras is instead shown inside the car to the sides of the steering wheel. This gives you extra visibility in bad weather, or icy mornings, as you can still see through the window as to what is next to you even if the main window is fogged up, or visibility due to ice or heavy rain is impairing your view.

The camera system also reduces light glare, meaning you won't be blinded by cars behind you with either bright lights, or have forgotten to turn down their full beam during night driving. When you come to park, the side cameras also angle more towards the destination for you, giving you a clear approach, to help you get into even the tightest of spaces.


Traditional safety features built in

Along with having all the advanced technology to make your driving experience better, to further protect you and your passengers, the Honda e also has a high-strength body structure as well as a range of airbags that will be deployed to keep you safe in the event of a collision.

What can I do with the Honda Personal assistant?

As the Honda Personal Assistant is an intelligent voice-activated assistant, it has been designed to help drivers control various functions of the car using voice commands. What you can ask it to do includes:

  • Ask and receive answers to questions you may have using the car's infotainment system
  • Check the status of your battery, and its current charge level along with how much driving range you have left
  • Control the e's heating system, such as fan speed and set the temperature
  • Control the entertainment system, for instant turning the volume up or down, answering calls, or changing the radio station
  • Get navigational directions to a destination as well as ask for real-time traffic updates on your route ahead
  • Receive personalised recommendations based on how you personally drive
  • Turn on the lights as well as adjusting the mirrors for you

What colours can a Honda e come in?

The Honda e, can come in 1 of 5 colours. These consist of:

  • Charge Yellow
  • Crystal Black Pearl
  • Modern Steel Metallic
  • Platinum White Pearl
  • Premium Crystal Blue Metallic

How much does a Honda e cost?

At the time of writing a new Honda e's prices start from:

Honda e Model Costs from
Honda e £34,420
Honda e Advance £36,920

How much can a Honda e Tow?

With the Honda e being mainly designed as a city car it isn't really suitable for towing, and a tow hitch currently hasn't been designed for the newer models.

How many models of the Honda e are available?

The Honda e comes with two main model versions. The Honda e, and Honda e Advance.

How do the different Honda e models differ from each other?

The two Honda e model versions differ in a few ways. We have put together the following feature set guide to help you pick the key features of each model.

Honda e key features

The Honda e's key features include:

  • 1 x HDMI input
  • 16" alloy wheels
  • 4 x USB port (2 x front, 2 x rear)
  • 50:50 weight distribution
  • 6 speakers
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Low Speed Follow
  • Ambient lighting
  • Auto LED headlights
  • Bluetooth™ hands free telephone
  • Charging port
  • Climate control auto A/C
  • Collision Mitigation Brake System
  • Driver & passenger seatback pockets
  • Electronic parking brake with automatic brake hold
  • Front heated seats
  • High beam support system
  • Honda CONNECT with Garmin Navigation and a dual 12.3 dual touchscreen, FM / DAB digital radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto™, internet radio, Aha™ app integration
  • Integrated glass antenna
  • Intelligent Speed Limiter
  • Lane Keeping Assist System
  • Lead Car Departure Notification System
  • Leather steering wheel
  • LED daytime running lights
  • Mobile phone pocket
  • My Honda+ app compatible
  • Parking sensors both in the front & the rear)
  • Pop-out door handles
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Rear spoiler
  • Rear view camera
  • Rear wheel drive
  • Regenerative braking strength control
  • Road Departure Mitigation System
  • Security alarm system and immobiliser
  • Side Camera Mirror System
  • Single Pedal Control
  • Sky roof
  • Smart entry & start
  • Sport mode
  • Steering wheel infotainment control
  • Traffic Sign Recognition System
  • Under-boot charging cable storage

Honda e Advance key features

In addition to the Honda e, the The Honda e Advance's key features include:

  • Blind Spot Information
  • Centre Camera Mirror System
  • Choice of 16 inch or 17 inch alloy wheels
  • Cross Traffic Monitor
  • Dedicated hardware amplifier
  • Front windshield de-icer
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Honda Parking Pilot
  • Multi-view camera
  • Premium audio with 8 speakers including a dedicated subwoofer

Where is the Honda e manufactured?

The Honda e is manufactured in Japan at Honda's Yorii car manufacturing plant.

Is the Honda e available in the UK?

Yes. At the time of writing, the Honda e is only available in the UK, Europe and Japan.

What is the curb weight of the Honda e?

The curb weight of the Honda e is around 1,514 KG.

What is the top speed of the Honda e?

The top speed of the Honda e is electronically limited to 90 MPH.

How big is the boot on the Honda e?

The Honda e has a boot capacity of 171 litres with the rear seats in place, and 861 litres with the rear seats folded down. This is more than enough space for your shopping, or even to hold several suitcases on your way to the airport, or for a trip in the UK.

Further to this, the Honda e's boot can also be fitted with a reversible boot mat. This mat then allows you to keep your boot free from dirt and scratches, and is also waterproof. It has also been designed to perfectly fit in your boot space.

How many seats does the Honda e have?

The Honda e has 4 seats.

How many doors does the Honda e have?

The Honda e has 2 doors.

Is the Honda e front-wheel (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD)?

The Honda e is rear-wheel drive RWD.

What is the warranty period / conditions on the Honda e?

In the UK, the new Honda e currently at time of writing, comes with a 3-year or 90,000-mile warranty - whichever comes first.

What can you do with the Honda My+ App

When it comes to the Honda My+ app it isn't just another app that gives you some basic information about your car. The Honda My+ has been designed to allow you to actually manage your vehicle remotely to enhance your driving experience all from the power of your smartphone or tablet.

Consequently, with the Honda My+ app you can remotely:

  • Access instructional videos on how to use certain features, as well as the user manual
  • Check the status of your car. This includes; but, is not limited to, its current battery level and current range left
  • Connect with Honda's dedicated customer support team for assistance with any questions or issues you may have
  • Locate your car on a map, which is ideal for finding it on your way back from a concert or the trip to the shops
  • Lock and unlock your
  • Monitor yours or your child’s driving behaviour
  • Receive alerts and notifications regarding your car. This can include things such as maintenance reminders or just diagnostic messages
  • Schedule maintenance as well as service appointments with your dealer

What are the Honda e's key stats?

When it comes to looking the key metrics for the Honda e, these consist of:

Metric Value
Car type Small City Car
Height 1,503 mm
Width 1,752 mm
Length 3,894 mm
Wheelbase 2,530 mm mm
Turning circle 4.3 metres
Ground clearance 5.7 inches

Honda e Summary

The Honda e is an exciting futuristic addition to the world of electric cars. It's stylish, fun to drive, and packed with a huge amount of extremely advanced technology as well as safety features.

This city car has been designed primarily for city driving, commutes, and urban environments, that said it will also take to motorways with ease. Consequently, if you're looking for an electric car that's a bit different from the norm, the Honda e is definitely worth considering.

Still not sure if the Honda e is the right car for you?

If you are still not sure if this city car is the right car for you? why not give our Honda specialists a call and we will be able to help.

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