Honda Super EV: a ‘fun-to-drive’ electric car?

The Honda Super EV Concept made its global debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. But will it bring the mix of enjoyment and usability it promises?

Sheltering from this year’s scorching Goodwood heat alongside the sleek new Prelude, was something different altogether: the Honda Super EV Concept. 

Making not only a UK debut, but its global debut at the Festival of Speed, the Super EV is set to become a part of the A-segment in the future. Here — in what may well be a sensible choice from the brand — it will join the increasingly prevalent number of micro EVs such as the Dacia Spring and the Hyundai Inster in a portion of the market that appears to be on the rise.

What do we know about the Super EV Concept so far?

The Super EV’s technical side is pretty much under wraps for now, with current details mostly deduced from what can be picked up visually. 

Lookswise, there are hints that this is the successor to the Honda E, although strangely for a concept it seems that the futurism dials have been turned all the way down compared to its now departed predecessor. However, if you want to discover where the remaining style cues appear to have been nabbed from, look no further than the Japanese market’s Honda N-One...

One thing is for sure: these influences come together to culminate in an offering which went toe-to-toe with the MG Cyber X as the boxiest concept on display at the festival. There is no restrained or mysterious livery here though; instead, some pops of colour highlight the EV’s conceptual nature, and fun intentions. So, while the Prelude showcased streamlined, flowing lines, the Super EV sat alongside with blocky, squared-off corners — polar opposites in terms of design, if you ask us.

While maybe not head-turning on its own, the cubic form behind the camouflage livery is inoffensive and pleasant. The ring headlights do much of the talking, while the chunky wheel arches, cheeky spoiler, and aggressive ducts below the small front grille let you know that the Super EV is here for a good time. 

Does the Super EV Concept live up to its promise?

‘Designed to demonstrate how an A-segment model might offer fresh, ‘fun-to-drive’ electric performance alongside trademark Honda usability.’

So, is it ‘fun-to-drive’? Honestly, we don’t know at this point. 

There are no details on the powertrain as of yet. But, while we weren’t behind the wheel, we can confirm the Super EV is functional after its nippy — and issue-free — burst up the historic Goodwood hillclimb. Despite its small size, the corner-mounted wheels and wide stance gave a planted appearance as it tackled the curves, resulting in an overall energetic performance once it left its shaded paddock.

And, with the interior hidden from view as part of the prototype phase, that’s all we have for now. We’ll be staying tuned to bring you further details, but in the meantime, do you think the Honda Super EV Concept will do what it says on the tin?