With a 340 km range, Honda launches the Everus VE-1 in China

KUALA LUMPUR: In China, there is a cousin of the Honda HR-V. We call it cousin because Honda is not the lone parent of the car. Developed by the Japanese automaker in collaboration with the Guangzhou Automobile Group, in short, GAC is the Everus VE-1. The electric cousin of the HR-V, Everus VE-1 made its debut in the Chinese market at the 2018 Guangzhou Auto Show and will be exclusive to the market.

At the front, the Everus VE-1 packs in distinct looks than the HR-V. There is less chrome, and the DRLs are stacked vertically. Between the headlamps, the grille makes way for the charging port and its cover. Inside, there is a redesigned instrument cluster for the EV. The gear knob is also absent. To choose gear, the driver now has to use a button. Rest of the interior is more or less the same as the one seen on the Honda HR-V.

Providing a single charge range of 340 kms is a 53.6 kWh battery pack. Drive gently at 60 kmph, and you can squeeze up to 439 kms on a single charge. The battery powers an electric motor which pumps out 163 PS of maximum power and can take the Everus VE-1 up to a top speed of 140 kmph. The power is delivered to the front wheels via a single reduction gear. Standard charging time for the Everus VE-1 is rated at 9 hours, and with a fast charger, you can achieve the same in a matter of 55 minutes.

The Hona Everus VE-1 will come equipped with LED headlamps, LED DRLs, 17-inch alloys, keyless entry & start, single-zone automatic climate control, 8-inch infotainment system, leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, among others.

In China, the Honda Everus VE-1 has been given a price tag of 170,800 yuan, which translates to RM 103,015. And without the incentives, the price is set at 225,800 yuan, translating to RM 136,186.