Electric Cars

Honda has unveiled its latest electric vehicle, the N-One E, a compact kei car designed to navigate the bustling urban landscapes of Japan. Priced attractively at just over $18,000, this new EV is set to challenge existing models in the segment, offering an impressive range and practical features tailored for city life.

Honda Launches N-One E: A New Era of Urban Electric Mobility in Japan

Honda, a prominent automotive manufacturer, officially launched its innovative electric kei car, the N-One E, earlier this week. This new vehicle is exclusively available in the Japanese domestic market, with sales commencing on September 12th. The N-One E carries a competitive price tag of approximately 2.7 million yen, which translates to just over $18,000. It draws its design inspiration from the gasoline-powered N-One, retaining its distinctive retro aesthetic, four-door configuration, and a surprisingly spacious hatchback trunk area.

A key highlight of the N-One E is its advanced 29.6-kWh battery system, which delivers an estimated driving range of up to 295 kilometers, or about 183 miles. This range positions the N-One E favorably against its primary rival in Japan, the Nissan Sakura, exceeding its range by more than 70 miles. Such a substantial range, combined with its ultra-compact dimensions, makes the N-One E an ideal solution for navigating Japan's notoriously congested urban environments.

The interior of the N-One E has been thoughtfully designed to maximize utility and comfort. It features versatile folding rear seats, enhancing cargo flexibility. Honda engineers also reconfigured the steering column from the gasoline model, creating additional front legroom and promoting a more ergonomic and stable driving posture. Despite integrating a battery pack beneath the floor, the N-One E maintains the same overall height as its gasoline counterpart. This design choice ensures that the vehicle remains easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces, a crucial advantage in crowded Japanese cities. To achieve this, Honda developed a specially thinned battery pack, a modified version of the one used in its electric van, which retains the same capacity while optimizing space.

While pint-sized kei cars may not be suited for the expansive highways of the United States, their popularity in Japan is undeniable, especially in dense urban centers where millions reside. Electric kei vehicles currently account for a significant 40 percent of all new car sales in the country. Honda is confident that the N-One E, with its blend of affordability, efficiency, and urban-friendly design, is strategically positioned to become a top contender in this thriving segment.

The introduction of the Honda N-One E highlights a significant trend in the automotive industry: the increasing focus on localized, efficient electric vehicles for specific markets. This launch underscores the importance of understanding and catering to regional needs and preferences. For consumers in Japan's densely populated cities, a compact, affordable, and range-efficient electric car like the N-One E represents not just a mode of transport, but a practical solution to daily commuting challenges. It suggests that the future of electric mobility isn't solely about long-range, high-performance vehicles, but also about intelligent, space-saving designs that seamlessly integrate into urban lifestyles. This move by Honda could inspire other manufacturers to develop more specialized EV models for diverse global markets, pushing innovation in sustainable urban transportation.

This September, Chevrolet introduces an enticing lease deal for its 2025 Traverse FWD LT model, solidifying the vehicle's position as a premier choice within the competitive three-row SUV market. Building on its 2024 redesign, which enhanced its rugged aesthetics, interior volume, and overall comfort, the Traverse effectively marries practicality with contemporary design. It serves as an ideal solution for families seeking generous cabin space without the bulk of a full-size SUV, slotting perfectly between Chevy's smaller Equinox and Blazer, and below the Tahoe and Suburban.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse FWD LT is powered by a robust 2.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine is seamlessly integrated with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive comes standard, an all-wheel-drive option is available for those desiring enhanced traction. The FWD model achieves commendable fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 20 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and a combined 23 mpg, making it an efficient option in its class. For the 2025 model year, the Traverse maintains the bold styling and cutting-edge technology introduced in its 2024 overhaul, alongside a comprehensive array of safety features, all contributing to its significant market value, especially with this month's attractive lease incentive.

The September lease offer for the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse FWD LT is set at $469 per month for a 24-month term, requiring an initial payment of $6,569 at signing. Notably, no security deposit is mandated, though taxes, title, license, and dealer fees are not included in this figure. Lessees are responsible for vehicle maintenance, any wear beyond normal use, and non-warranty repairs. A disposition fee, potentially up to $395, may be incurred at the conclusion of the lease period. The annual mileage allowance is 10,000 miles, totaling 20,000 miles over the lease term. To take advantage of this offer, customers must finalize delivery by September 30, 2025.

The Traverse LT trim strikes an excellent balance between cost-effectiveness and comfort, making it a compelling option for families who prioritize essential amenities without upgrading to premium trims. Standard exterior features include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps and daytime running lights, roof rails, and a convenient power liftgate. Inside, the cabin boasts premium cloth seating for up to eight occupants, an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, tri-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. Technological highlights feature a large 17.7-inch diagonal HD touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, and a six-speaker audio system.

Safety remains a paramount concern for the Traverse LT FWD, which is equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. These include Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, a Following Distance Indicator, Front Pedestrian Braking, and IntelliBeam automatic high beams. Further enhancing driver confidence are features such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert. The interior space is notably generous, offering 44.29 inches of front legroom, 41.46 inches in the second row, and 32.13 inches in the third row. With all seats folded flat, the Traverse provides an impressive 97.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity, surpassing competitors like the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse continues to stand out as a highly adaptable three-row SUV, distinguished by its expansive interior, state-of-the-art technology, and robust safety provisions. This September's lease special makes it an especially attractive proposition for families seeking a harmonious blend of affordability and utility, avoiding the need for a larger, full-size SUV. Prospective lessees are strongly encouraged to thoroughly review all lease terms, verify vehicle availability with their local authorized Chevrolet dealership, and factor in all applicable taxes and registration fees before committing. With its refreshed design, feature-rich cabin, and competitive leasing terms, the Traverse LT FWD represents an outstanding value proposition this month.