Honda will unveil its Super EV Concept, a boxy electric minicar, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2025, signaling a push into the entry-level EV market to replace the discontinued Honda e, according to Automotive News Europe. This debut comes as Honda faces mounting pressure to meet stricter CO2 regulations in Europe, particularly in the U.K., where EVs made up just 0.6 percent of its sales in early 2025.

Design Inspired by Kei Cars

The Super EV Concept draws styling from Japan’s compact kei cars, featuring a five-door, boxy design optimized for urban environments. A camouflaged prototype was spotted testing in London, showcasing a practical yet distinctive look. While Honda has not released technical details, the concept’s design suggests a focus on space efficiency and affordability, key traits for competing in Europe’s growing entry-level EV segment.

Honda Super EV Concept Replaces the Honda e

The Super EV Concept is poised to succeed the Honda e, a retro-styled EV discontinued in 2023 after struggling with a high price and limited range of about 137 miles. If produced, the new minicar would target buyers seeking affordable, short-range EVs for city driving. It would rival models like the Hyundai Inster, Dacia Spring, and Leapmotor T03, which have gained traction for their low cost and compact size.

Addressing CO2 and ZEV Mandates

Honda’s EV strategy is driven by regulatory demands. In the U.K., the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate requires 28 percent of new car sales to be electric in 2025. With EVs accounting for only 0.6 percent of Honda’s U.K. sales from January to May 2025, per NewAutomotive data, the Super EV Concept could help Honda boost its electric share and lower its fleetwide CO2 emissions to avoid fines under EU rules.

Broader Electrification Plans

At Goodwood, Honda will also display an SUV concept from its 0 Series, a range of larger EVs set for production in 2026, first revealed at CES 2025. Additionally, the Prelude hybrid coupe will highlight Honda’s electrified performance lineup. These unveilings underscore Honda’s multi-pronged approach to electrification, balancing affordable urban EVs with premium and performance models.

Industry and Consumer Implications

The Super EV Concept could reshape Honda’s position in Europe’s EV market by offering a cost-effective option for urban drivers. Its kei-car-inspired design prioritizes practicality, potentially appealing to first-time EV buyers. Economically, a lower-priced EV could increase Honda’s market share in the competitive sub-$25,000 segment (based on typical entry-level EV pricing). Operationally, the minicar’s compact size and expected range of 100–150 miles would suit commuters in cities like London or Paris, where charging infrastructure is expanding.

However, challenges remain. Honda must ensure competitive pricing and range to surpass the Honda e’s shortcomings. Scaling production to meet demand while maintaining quality will be critical, especially as rivals like Hyundai and Dacia strengthen their foothold.

Honda’s Goodwood showcase marks a pivotal step toward electrification, with the Super EV Concept leading its charge into the affordable EV space. As regulatory pressures intensify, this minicar could be key to Honda’s compliance and growth in Europe’s evolving automotive landscape.