by Electric Honda N-Box Prepares for Launch on Japanese Market
Japanese automaker Honda plans to launch a fully electric version of its most popular microvan, the N-Box, by 2027. This decision is seen as a response to the anticipated entry of the compact BYD Racco electric car into the Japanese market, expected in 2026.
Currently, the N-Box car, which has been the best-selling new car in Japan for three consecutive years, is available exclusively with a 658 cc gasoline engine. The electric version will become the first fully electric offering in the kei-car segment for Japanese buyers.
Technical Details and Competition
Work on the electric model is still in its early stages, so details about it are limited. To compete with the BYD Racco, which is equipped with a 20 kWh battery and a range of about 180 kilometers, Honda is expected to have to offer similar specifications. As reported by Nikkei Asia, the company is still determining both the range figures and the pricing strategy for the new model.
The model will not replace the current version with the internal combustion engine. Instead, the electric car will be sold in parallel with it, giving customers a choice rather than forcing a transition.
Context of the Japanese Electric Vehicle Market
Despite Japan’s technological advancement, electric vehicles currently account for only about 2% of the country’s new car market. Success is primarily seen with small models like the Nissan Sakura and Mitsubishi eK X, which together form almost 40% of electric vehicle sales in Japan. Honda is not the only one preparing a response to the BYD challenge. Suzuki is also reportedly developing its own electric mini-car, although details about it are not yet known.
The planned launch of the electric Honda N-Box in 2027 could be an important step for the electrification of one of the most important segments of the Japanese market. The parallel existence of electric and gasoline versions of the same model reflects the cautious strategy of manufacturers trying to balance innovation with consumer habits. The success of this initiative could significantly accelerate the transition to electric vehicles in a country where compact cars have traditionally enjoyed immense popularity.
