A key highlight of the 2024 Pakistan Auto & Parts Show (PAPS) was the unveiling of the e:HEV logo, symbolizing Honda’s electric-hybrid technology. “This step reinforces the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable and eco-friendly automotive solutions, in line with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote green technology,” Honda stated.
According to the automaker, the display theme mirrored Honda’s slogan, “Honda: how we move you | CREATE > TRANSCEND, AUGMENT,” highlighting the brand’s dedication to pushing boundaries and elevating human potential through cutting-edge innovation.
What is e:HEV
Honda’s e:HEV technology, also known as the “electric hybrid” system, is an advanced hybrid powertrain designed to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It combines a 1.5-liter petrol engine with two electric motors to deliver a smooth and efficient driving experience. The e:HEV system operates using three driving modes:
- EV Drive (Electric Vehicle Mode) – The car runs purely on electric power, drawing energy from the battery for short distances, typically in low-speed urban conditions.
- Hybrid Drive – The petrol engine works with the electric motor, where the engine generates electricity to power the electric motor, which then drives the wheels. This mode is ideal for city driving or heavy traffic.
- Engine Drive – The petrol engine powers the vehicle directly, typically during high-speed driving on highways, where it operates most efficiently.
Honda e:HEV technology offers a balance between performance and efficiency, with the system intelligently switching between the modes to maximize fuel economy. It is designed to reduce CO2 emissions and deliver a more eco-friendly driving experience without the need for plug-in charging, as the battery recharges through regenerative braking and the petrol engine.
Which Model It Could Be?
Honda has yet to reveal which model will feature the e:HEV technology, leaving speculation open as to whether it will be an entirely new model for the local market or simply a new variant added to the existing lineup in Pakistan. Let’s explore the potential options.
Related: Honda BR-V Enters 8th Year of Production in Pakistan
The e:HEV tech is offered in a number of Honda models in RHD markets including City, Civic, HR-V, CR-V, ZR-V, Accord as well as Fit/ Jazz. Introducing an all-new model with this technology doesn’t seem to be feasible for Honda considering the tougher economic conditions here, however, if we look at the existing Honda lineup in Pakistan, it could well be offered with Civic— most likely, or the HR-V.
Though the 7th-gen City was one of the very first Honda models to receive this tech, Honda is yet to bring that model to Pakistan as the automaker still sells us the obsolete 6th-gen City. But wishfully thinking, who knows Honda might bring the 7th-gen City e:HEV and sell it alongside the current old City, similar to how Hyundai recently launched the 7th-gen Elantra hybrid sedan while continuing to sell the older 6th-gen gasoline variants in our market.
The HR-V has been one of the slowest-selling models in Honda’s lineup, primarily due to its limited features and equipment. It’s unlikely that Honda will introduce the e:HEV variant for the HR-V in Pakistan, as doing so would increase its price, making it even less appealing to buyers.
The Civic is a strong candidate for the e:HEV technology in our market, as its hybrid variant would enable Honda to compete with the newly launched 7th-gen Hyundai Elantra hybrid, which also falls in the C-segment league.
Related: For Which “E” The Hybrids in Pakistan Are For?
Better late than never, local automakers have finally begun introducing hybrid vehicles into their lineups—a step that should have been taken over a decade ago. However, we believe hybrid technology should be made accessible in mass-market models, rather than restricted to catering only to the elites. Nonetheless, introducing the e:HEV in Pakistan would be a positive step and could provide a much-needed boost for Honda, which has been struggling to keep pace with its competitors in recent times.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
