Honda is slated to enter the Electric Vehicle (EV) race with its own offering as early as 2019. This is previewed as the Urban EV Concept which the Japanese automaker says showcases where they plan to bring EV technology and design.

The Urban EV Concept rides on an all-new platform that’s 100 millimeters shorter than the Jazz. Featuring a low and muscular stance, it is meant to evoke a sporty driving performance while also recalling the simplistic yet timeless design of the first- and second-generation Civic.

Not requiring any grille, the Urban EV Concept features a Honda emblem backlit in blue, something which the company confirms will be an integral styling feature of future EV models. Meanwhile, the “grille” can actually display interactive multilingual messages that can include greetings, advice for other drivers on the road, and charging status.


The thin pillars of the Urban EV Concept means an airy cabin with minimal front blind spots while rear-hinged doors offer a dramatic way to enter and exit the vehicle. The electric charging cable connection is housed in the hood.

Able to accommodate 4 passengers across two bench seats, the Urban EV Concept promotes a lounge-like feel with wood finish accents. The controls are also highly simplistic, limited on a steering wheel and a few physical controls. There is, however, a large “floating” dashboard console.

Honda aims to have electrified technology in two-thirds of its global new-car sales by 2030. This is all part of their “Electric Vision” strategy which was unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. This strategy was provoked partly by Europe’s decision to move towards low-emissions vehicle with some countries opting to ban conventional engines in the next decade or two.

Honda’s Electric Vision strategy includes developing a high-density, lightweight battery pack; integrated heat management; and evolution of energy transfer functions both to and from the vehicle.