Honda has just launched a pint-sized battery-electric van to compete in the competitive Kei car market. It’s known as the N-VAN e: and will be marketed as a commercial car aimed at delivery companies and the construction industry. Nevertheless, it’ll be available for private buyers, too. Honda has not specified the battery size of the N-VAN e: but does say it can travel 245 km on a single charge. It also supports AC charging at speeds of up to 6 kW and DC charging at 50 kW, allowing it to be recharged in approximately 30 minutes. No horsepower or torque figures have been announced.

Four versions of the tiny EV will be available. The first model is known as the L4 and is a four-seater aimed at commercial and private buyers. It has a 7-inch infotainment screen, two-tone exterior color options, and simpler halogen headlights than the more advanced LED headlights of other models. Honda will also sell the N-VAN e: in FUN guise. It is offered with two-tone exterior paint finishes and has a light interior with a beige color.

 

The carmaker says it will best suit the lifestyle of buyers who enjoy “leisure activities.” A single-seat version of the EV has also been announced and developed specifically for commercial uses. The interior of its cabin has been extended by 95 mm and the floor height lowered by 120 mm to improve cargo capacity. A final version, the L2, is also focused on commercial uses and has just two seats. The N-VAN e: G and L2 models will be available exclusively for lease through the Honda Fleet Sales Division and Honda’s online store.

Despite the Honda’s compact size, it’s well-equipped with safety tech. Key systems found on the consumer-focused Fun include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, traffic sign recognition, and a collision mitigation braking system.

The commercial e: G and E: L2 models are the cheapest, with prices starting at 2,439,800 yen (US$ 15,500) and topping out at 2,659,800 yen (US$ 16,900). Prices for the standard e: L4 without quick charging start at 2,699,400 yen (US$ 17,200) while adding quick charging brings the price up to 2,809,400 yen (US$ 17,900). The range is then topped out by the e: FUN available from 2,919,400 yen (US$ 18,600).