Honda e powertrain details released

The Honda e, which is a compact hatchback, is expected to be the first electric Honda to be built on a dedicated EV platform. The Japanese carmaker has revealed more details of the platform.

The platform features a 50:50 weight distribution, a low center of gravity thanks to underfloor batteries mounted centrally. An electric motor mounted on the rear axle powers the rear wheels. It also gets independent suspension on all four wheels. The suspension components are made up of forged aluminium to reduce weight.

The charging port of the car is integrated into the bonnet with an illuminated glass panel that reveals the charging status of the battery. The car gets a water-cooled 35.5 kWh battery pack and the claimed range is over 200 km. The battery can be charged with either Type 2 AC connection or a CCS2 DC rapid charger. With fast charging, it is claimed to take 30 minutes to charge to 80%.

Honda claims that they have received 31,000 expressions of interest and reservations can be made in UK, Germany, France and Norway. The Honda e is expected to make its debut later this year.