Honda has unveiled the SUV e:prototype, which showcases its first Chinese-market EV and could preview a future electric HR-V. The new model is due to go on sale in China next year and will be the first of 10 EVs that the Japanese firm will launch in the country within the next five years.

• Likely to be based on the third-gen Honda HR-V crossover

• The SUV will feature Honda’s latest Connect infotainment system

Honda SUV e:prototype: What is it?

While few technical details of the model have been made available, the Honda SUV e:prototype appears to be closely based on the new, third-gen HR-V crossover, which is due to go on sale in international markets later this year. The Honda SUV e:prototype has a revamped front grille to reflect the lack of an engine radiator needed for the electric motors.

Honda says that the SUV e:prototype will offer “dynamic, yet smooth acceleration” that will enable the driver to “feel the joy of driving”.

Honda SUV e:prototype: technology

The Honda SUV e:prototype will feature the latest version of Honda’s Connect infotainment system, which will enable over-the-air software updates and offers voice recognition technology.

Honda in India

Honda's current line-up in India consists of the Jazz, the WR-V, the Honda City and the Amaze. The carmaker axed the Civic and CR-V from its India line-up, following the closure of its manufacturing facility in Greater Noida. 

Honda was evaluating the launch of the previous-gen HR-V in India, but decided to drop the plan in 2019.