Honda previews new mini EV – the Super-N Prototype
Honda has taken the wraps off its latest compact electric vehicle, the Super-N Prototype, at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, previewing a small yet spirited EV designed to bring the brand’s trademark driving fun into the urban age.
The pint-sized prototype previews a production model set to go on sale in Japan from 2026, followed by other Asian markets and the UK. Honda’s global announcement also references “Oceania” as part of its rollout plan, suggesting the Super-N could be a contender for New Zealand in time. Here’s hoping, as it looks spunky.
Built on the lightest version of Honda’s long-running N Series Kei-car platform, the Super-N was first shown earlier this year as the Super EV Concept at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Tokyo debut refines that idea into a near-production-ready model with bold proportions, blistered bumpers, and prominent aero ducts giving it a wider, more planted stance than the standard N-One.
Inside, Honda continues its driver-focused theme with asymmetrical blue-accented sports seats, a minimalist dashboard, and a clean horizontal layout aimed at maximising visibility and space efficiency. Despite its compact footprint, the cabin layout echoes Honda’s recent focus on simplicity and user-friendly ergonomics.
The big talking point, however, is performance. The Super-N introduces a new BOOST Mode, which temporarily increases output for a burst of acceleration. But it’s not just about speed, Honda has added virtual multi-gear shift control and an Active Sound Control system that simulates the feel and sound of a petrol-powered sports car. Interior lighting and display animations complete the immersive effect, aiming to deliver “fun-to-drive” character in a city-sized EV.
While Honda hasn’t released technical specifications or range figures, the current N-One EV offers around 295km under Japan’s WLTC testing cycle, giving a rough indication of what to expect.
Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobiles for Honda UK, said the model “promises to offer a great entry point to Honda EV ownership” and is set to “bring Honda’s fun-to-drive performance to a compact all-electric model.”
Though European expansion remains limited for now, Honda says the Super-N’s reception will shape its future small-EV strategy, and with growing regional demand for compact urban electrics, it wouldn’t be surprising to see this tiny powerhouse make its way Down Under before long. And we can’t wait for the Type R version too.
