The Honda Super-One is set to make a splash in Australia, but not for its power. With a modest 70kW output, it's poised to be one of the least powerful electric cars in the country. But here's the twist: Honda Australia might just surprise us with an affordable price tag.
The Super-One, Honda's first all-electric model in Australia, is confirmed to have a front-drive electric motor that delivers 70kW of power and 162Nm of torque. This places it near the bottom of the power rankings for electric cars in Australia. Only the BYD Atto 1 Essential, with its 65kW output, falls below it, while the BYD Dolphin matches its power.
But when it comes to torque, the Super-One's 162Nm figure is only surpassed by the Hyundai Inster's 147Nm, as the BYD models offer more torque. And this is where it gets interesting: performance isn't just about raw power and torque. Weight plays a significant role, too.
Honda isn't positioning the Super-One as a speed demon. Instead, they're focusing on creating a fun driving experience with unique features like a simulated gear shifter and fake engine sounds. And with a weight of 1092kg, the Super-One achieves a respectable power-to-weight ratio of 64.1kW per tonne, outperforming some of its competitors in this regard.
However, Honda is keeping other crucial details under wraps, including battery size and driving range. The Super-One is based on the N-One e kei car, which has a 29.6kWh battery and a WLTP range of 295km. But with the Super-One's output significantly higher than the donor car's, we can expect a decrease in driving range if the same battery is used.
Internationally, the Super-One will come equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and an eight-speaker Bose sound system. In Singapore, it's priced at SGD178,999, which translates to AU$207,500. However, due to market differences, the Australian pricing is expected to be much lower, potentially around AU$35,000, making it a compelling option for those seeking an affordable electric car.
So, will the Honda Super-One's unique features and affordable price tag make up for its lack of power? Only time will tell. And this is the part most people miss: sometimes, it's not just about raw power. It's about the overall driving experience and value for money. What do you think? Is the Super-One a compelling choice despite its modest power output?
