Honda claimed a “surge is about to break out” after previewing its next-gen electric SUV, the S7. The S7 will kick off Honda’s new series of dedicated EVs aimed at top sellers like the Tesla Model Y.
Last April, we got our first look at the S7 at the Beijing Auto Show. Honda unveiled the electric SUV as part of its new “Ye Series,” a dedicated EV brand in China.
The S7 concept was showcased alongside the P7 SUV and the GT Concept. Honda said the new lineup is designed to help accelerate its transformation in China, “where the EV shift is proceeding rapidly.” The lineup will wear a new “H Mark” exclusively available on Honda’s next-gen lineup.
Honda designed the new models specifically for the Chinese market with a dedicated EV platform, improved styling, and advanced tech, including a new driver assistance system (ADAS).
The S7 and P7 will be the first models to launch. Although essentially the same vehicle, they will be built by two different joint venture partners in China. Dongfeng-Honda will launch the S7, while the P7 will be built by Honda’s JV with GAC.
Check out Honda’s new S7 electric SUV for China
Ahead of its official launch, Dongfeng-Honda previewed the S7, boasting it will be “a new benchmark for double first-class strength.”
The automaker added, “The surge is about to break out,” while giving us a sneak peek at the interior and exterior design.
It will be the first next-gen model to ride on its new “W” EV platform with single and dual-motor (AWD) powertrain configurations. As regulatory filings (via CarNewsChina) in China revealed, the S7 is a mid-size five-seater.
At 4,750 mm long, 1,930 mm wide, and 1,625 mm tall, Honda’s new electric SUV is about the size of a Tesla Model Y (4,797 mm long, 1,920 mm wide, 1,624 mm tall).
Powered by an 89.8 kWh CATL battery pack, the S7 has CLTC range of up to 620 km (385 miles). The AWD model has 150 kW front and 200 kW rear electric motors, while the AWD configuration drops the front motor.
According to local reports, Honda will use Huwei’s advanced assisted driving software in its new EV lineup. Although Honda has its own ADAS, the company will offer both options in China.
Inside, the S7 is loaded with screens and physical buttons. A massive 22.8″ infotainment sits at the center, which is actually two separate 10″ and 12.8″ screens. There are also digital side and rearview mirrors. Although no details are offered, you can also see a smaller driver display.
We will learn prices closer to launch, but the S7 is expected to start at over 200,000 yuan ($27,500). In comparison, the new Tesla Model Y RWD first edition starts at 263,500 yuan (36,200) and has a CLTC range of up to 593 km.
The new model will be one of ten new Honda-branded EV models that will launch in China by 2027. By 2035, Honda aims for EVs to account for 100% of vehicle sales.
Like most global OEMs, Honda has struggled to keep up in the world’s largest EV market as domestic leaders like BYD continue gaining market share. Last year, Honda’s sales fell 30%, dropping below the 1 million market for the first time in nine years.
Can Honda’s new S7 electric SUV compete in China? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
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