Why the Honda e-Prototype may not be my (only) real world dream car
Does that title sound familiar? It inspired by the title of my overview of the adorable Urban EV. That was back in September 2017 and at that stage, the Urban EV was very much a concept car and its gorgeous proportions would never work in the real world, given the constraints production cars have to meet. So when Honda announced they would be showing a preview of the production model in Early 2019, I was worried the production model would be diluted to the point that the Urban EV would look like your everyday supermini. I'm pleased to report that is not the case - the new Honda e-Prototype is highly representative of the road going model and it still looks stunning!
Firstly, I'd like to clear some of the negative aspects of the design; those massive wheels and their figure-hugging wheel arches have made way for a more conventional setup which makes car look significantly tamer. However, the e Prototype still features cheeky flares which mark out the peak width of the car. That's because the side mirrors are actually compact cameras which feed into two of the six(!) digital screens you can find in the cabin. Speaking of which, features an admirable design which makes you feel cozy just looking at it...
If the drivetrain could talk, it would say "I'm here for a good time, not a long time!" That's because the e Prototype powers the rear wheels, which means a more lively driving experience and the potential to throw skids in low grip conditions! However, at full capacity, the e Prototype only takes you 125 miles. While that sounds adequate for urban commuting, alongside a 300-mile capable Hyundai Kona EV, that doesn't sound very impressive.
Firstly, I'd like to clear some of the negative aspects of the design; those massive wheels and their figure-hugging wheel arches have made way for a more conventional setup which makes car look significantly tamer. However, the e Prototype still features cheeky flares which mark out the peak width of the car. That's because the side mirrors are actually compact cameras which feed into two of the six(!) digital screens you can find in the cabin. Speaking of which, features an admirable design which makes you feel cozy just looking at it...
So with its shortcomings, does that make Honda's new EV less desirable to me? Absolutely not - if I was in the market for a new car, it would absolutely be at the top of my list... Or thereabouts. Since Urban EV was revealed, another highly competent small EV has been revealed; the Peugeot e208. It is based on the gorgeous new 208 and features the most potent drivetrain of the lineup so far with a 100kW (134hp) electric motor, allowing the e208 to get from 0-60 in a brisk 8.5 seconds. Like the Honda, the Peugeot has an eye catching design with retro cues inspired by the iconic 205.
Both of these game-changing supermini EVs are set to hit the market before the end of the year. With this segment being predominantly dominated by the Renault Zoe (which is also expected to receive a major overhaul this year), it is nice to have some more options which offer zero-emissions in a thrilling package.
Both of these game-changing supermini EVs are set to hit the market before the end of the year. With this segment being predominantly dominated by the Renault Zoe (which is also expected to receive a major overhaul this year), it is nice to have some more options which offer zero-emissions in a thrilling package.
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