The Honda EV-Ster was a surprise debut from the Japanese automaker at the Tokyo show this morning. Aiming to demonstrate that driving pleasure is at the core of the company’s DNA, the two-seater is an exercise in lightweight and diminutive dimensions – it measures just 3570mm long, 1500mm wide, 1100mm tall and has a wheelbase that spans 2325mm.
Honda calls the EV-Ster a ‘next generation electric sports car’ and claims it features ‘dynamic and innovative styling’. Unfortunately the design is unnecessarily overwrought for such a small vehicle. Slotting in just 170mm longer than Japanese kei car regulations, the complex surface treatment on the bodyside and lack of plan shape make the car appear truncated and smaller than it actually is. A more organic surface treatment, such as that found on the larger AS-X concept sitting beside it on the showstand, would have improved the overall aesthetic of the diminutive vehicle.
Judging from the sheer number of electromotive mobility concepts on the Honda stand it seems clear that the company is committed on delivering on its sustainable promise and achieving its goal of addressing climate change and energy resource issues, we just wish it would turn to nature to influence its design language as well.
Eric Gallina
