Honda introduced its latest electric SUV, the S7, on March 7. The vehicle is designed to compete directly with the Tesla Model Y and marks Honda’s bold step into the electric SUV segment.
With an impressive 650 km (404 miles) range and a futuristic design that breaks from Honda’s conventional styling, industry observers are watching closely to see if the S7 will become a major player in the EV market.
Spacious Interior Rivals Midsize SUVs
The S7, developed by Honda in partnership with Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) for the Chinese market, is a midsize SUV built on Honda’s dedicated EV platform. At 4,750 mm (187 inches) in length, 1,930 mm (76 inches) in width, and 1,625 mm (64 inches) in height, it is between the Kia Sportage and Sorento in size and offers ample interior space.
The S7’s 2,930 mm (115-inch) wheelbase is 40 mm (1.6 inches) longer than the Tesla Model Y, ensuring a roomier cabin—a strategic design choice catering to Chinese consumers’ preference for spacious interiors.
Honda announced via Weibo on July 14 that the S7 will be produced at its Wuhan plant in Hubei Province following its debut at the 2024 Shanghai Motor Show.
High-Performance Battery and Advanced Technology
The S7’s key strength is its impressive range. The base rear-wheel-drive model, powered by a single motor generating 268 horsepower, features a large 89.8 kWh battery, which can deliver up to 650 km (404 miles) under China’s CLTC standards.
The higher-end all-wheel-drive variant, equipped with dual motors producing a combined 469 horsepower, slightly reduces the range to 620 km (385 miles) but achieves a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph) despite its 2,305 kg (5,080 lb) weight.
The S7 boasts a 9.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch central touchscreen. It also comes standard with a premium 16-speaker Bose sound system. Honda integrates cutting-edge technology, including digital side mirrors, a panoramic glass roof, an augmented reality (AR) head-up display, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Competitive Pricing
Honda has set the S7’s starting price at 259,900 yuan (approximately $35,880), which puts it in a competitive position against segment leaders like the Tesla Model Y.
Industry analysts view this launch as a significant shift for Honda, which marks its transition from an internal combustion-focused brand to a growing force in the EV market.
The global consumer response has been largely positive. One EV enthusiast noted that it’s great to see Honda, like Mazda and Toyota, following Hyundai and Kia’s lead in producing compelling EVs. The S7’s sleek design, interior lighting, and sound system are impressive.
However, some consumers expressed concerns about the vehicle’s size and called for more compact and affordable EV options.
Honda’s Global EV Strategy
Honda’s collaboration with GAC to launch the S7 is a strategic move to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving global EV market. China, the world’s fastest-growing EV market, is a key battleground where major players like BYD, Tesla, Xpeng, and Nio fiercely compete.
Sources indicate that Honda is considering expanding the S7’s availability to European and Asian markets. This launch is expected to accelerate Honda’s expansion of its EV lineup and efforts to gain a larger market share.
With its premium design, extended range, and advanced technology, the S7 is gaining global attention. As a traditional internal combustion leader, the automotive industry will closely watch Honda’s ability to transition successfully into the EV era.
