Honda has officially launched its new Super-N compact electric vehicle (EV) in the UK, positioning it as an affordable and practical option for urban drivers. The car, which had garnered significant anticipation earlier this year due to its low price and surprisingly spacious interior, now stands as Honda's sole electric offering in the British market.
Unusually for a vehicle sold outside of Japan, the Super-N's design draws inspiration from the Japanese 'kei' car class, known for its small dimensions. While it remains one of the most compact city cars available in the UK, it is technically too wide and long to meet Japan's strict 'kei' car classification standards. This unique heritage contributes to its efficient use of interior space, a key selling point for a vehicle of its size.
The Super-N's arrival is particularly significant for Honda in the UK. The brand recently ceased offering its e:Ny1 electric SUV, and plans for its '0 Series' range of EVs were cancelled due to financial challenges and a perceived lack of global demand. Consequently, the Super-N is expected to be the only electric vehicle from Honda available to UK consumers for some time, placing considerable importance on its success.
Honda aims to attract a new demographic of buyers with the Super-N, emphasising a fun driving experience. The car features dedicated suspension tuning specifically for the UK, and its body is wider than the Japanese-market N-One e model it is based on. Competing in an increasingly crowded segment, it rivals other compact electric cars such as the Dacia Spring, Leapmotor T03, Hyundai Inster, and the eagerly awaited Renault Twingo.
Under the bonnet, the Super-N offers 63hp in most driving modes, making it one of the less powerful new cars on the market. However, its lightweight construction at 1,097kg allows for quick acceleration at lower speeds. Five driving modes are available: Econ, City, Normal, Sport, and Boost, with the latter providing an additional 31hp for faster acceleration, particularly useful above 40mph. The City mode notably includes one-pedal braking for urban convenience. While the car's electric motor is quiet, some drivers may find the simulated gearshifts and engine noises in Sport and Boost modes an unusual addition for an EV, and its tall design can lead to noticeable body roll when cornering quickly.