Honda EV-Ster Concept - 2011 Tokyo Auto Show

 In Japan, there is a class of 660-cc subcompacts called Kei cars. One of the legendary vehicles in this category was the mid-engine Honda Beat. At the 2011 Tokyo Auto Show, Honda showed the spiritual successor to the Beat, but with a twist. Instead of the small, fuel-efficient 660-cc 3-cylinder engine, the 2-seat EV-Ster, as it’s called, is electric.

 The rear-wheel-drive EV-Ster (the name is a combo of EV and Roadster)—which employs carbon fiber in its construction for reduced weight—is expected to have a range of 100 miles. Like the Honda AC-X and Micro Commuter Concept, it has twin joystick controls instead of a steering wheel. Top speed for the little 2-seater is 100 mph, and it’s capable of hitting 60 km/h in 5 sec. What’s more, Honda says the lithium-ion battery pack can be recharged in 3 hours at 200 volts.

Although Honda is emphasizing that the EV-Ster is just a concept, it certainly looks like a modern interpretation of the Beat. Although Kei cars are only for the Japanese market, let’s hope Honda decides to build this sporty EV and bring it to the U.S.

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