Dewan Group launched the locally assembled Honri Ve electric hatchback in Pakistan earlier this year and the EV has now made it to the PAMA (Pakistan Automobile Manufacturers Association) sales charts. This marks the first time that sales data of an electric vehicle are being officially shared by the association.
According to the PAMA data, 63 units of Honri Ve EV were sold in Pakistan in November 2024 which is perhaps encouraging to see buyers opting for the newly launched electric hatchback.
Honri Ve- The Background
Like many other EVs previously introduced in Pakistan, the Honri Ve traces its origins to China. It is developed by Hongri Group, a company originally based in Binzhou, Shandong Province, that transitioned to the micro-electric vehicle industry in 2014 and rapidly expanded its operations. Currently headquartered in Qingdao, the company focuses on research and development, manufacturing, sales, and services for micro-electric vehicles.
According to the information provided, the group has established three production bases in Rizhao, Binzhou, and Anhui Province, along with R&D centers in Qingdao and Shanghai. Its sales network now spans 65% of China’s districts, supported by approximately 3,800 distributors and resellers. Hongri has consistently ranked No. 1 in low-speed vehicle sales, achieving top annual sales year after year. The company has also expanded internationally, exporting its vehicles to around 15 countries.
Interestingly, the price of this vehicle is $7,401 (roughly around PKR 19.62 lac) as mentioned on the website. However, in Pakistan, there are two variants offered— the Ve 2.0 and Ve 3.0— priced at PKR 39.99 lac and PKR 49.99 lac respectively. The front end of Honri Ve draws significant inspiration from the Toyota Alphard, giving it a bold persona despite its relatively smaller overall dimensions.
Honri VE 2.0: Specifications and Features
The Honri VE 2.0 is equipped with a Ternary Lithium Battery and a Permanent Synchronous Motor, delivering a maximum power of 30 kW and 84 Nm of torque. It offers a top speed of 100 km/h and a range of 200 km per charge, with a charging time of seven hours.
For braking, it features front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, complemented by 155/65/R15 tires and alloy rims. Additional exterior highlights include a rear spoiler, halogen height-adjustable front headlamps, dual-tone side mirrors with indicators, chrome and black front grille, and daytime running lights (DRLs).
Inside, the Honri VE 2.0 offers electric power steering (obviously), a knob-type transmission, 4-way adjustable seats for both the driver and passenger, a rearview camera, electric windows (front and rear), foldable rear seats, a 5-inch color instrument cluster, and a 10.25-inch Android-based infotainment screen. It also comes with a 220V AC charging gun for home charging convenience.
Honri VE 3.0: Power, and Performance
The Honri VE 3.0 raises the bar with an extended range of 300 km per charge (as per official CLTC standards). Charging from empty to full takes only seven hours using a standard home outlet.
Powered by a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, it delivers 35 kW of power and 87 Nm of torque with a top speed of 100 km/h. The vehicle is equipped with a 29.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. Key Features of the Honri VE 3.0 include a rearview camera, TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system), and 220V AC charging gun allowing convenient charging with a regular power outlet.
According to feedback from those who have booked or test-driven the Honri VE, while the fit and finish appear satisfactory, the interior quality can be compared to that of the Suzuki Alto, but it’s not superior at all. Many have raised concerns about excessive cabin noise, attributed to the heavy use of plastics and minimal sound-deadening materials. Additionally, the ride quality has been described as less comfortable. However, the key selling point remains its fuel efficiency, with the company claiming a 70% savings on fuel costs each month.
While EV hatchbacks have already been available in the market, such as the Rinco Aria EV and Gigi mini EV, it is the first time that an EV in the form of Honri Ve has made it to the PAMA sales data. Sales are expected to increase as buyers generally are reluctant to make purchases during the year-end period. But as it looks, the sales of Honri Ve are likely to pick up pace from January 2025 onwards. What is your opinion regarding Honri Ve in Pakistan, let us know with your comments.
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
