Could a New EV S2000 Be in Honda's Future?
If Honda built a simple, bare-bones, performance-focused eS2000, would you buy one?
Redefining Performance
For years, we've been teased with all sorts of rumors of an S2000 revival. But time and time again, our hearts have been broken. No, Honda doesn't seem to be too interested in building another simple, soulful, performance-based roadster. But what if they piggybacked off the insanely popular Urban and Sports EV concepts and reimagined the S2000 as an all-electric sports car?
Keep it Simple
Clearly, Honda is interested in building basic, fun, economical EVs that anyone can afford, which in essence, would be electric versions of the cars that put the automaker on the map, to begin with. And that's exactly what our ideal eS2000 should be. Not some overly expensive, overly complicated, ultra-high-performance vehicle like the Tesla Roadster(s).
Sporty and Cheap
Of course, automakers have long been working hard to bring EVs to the masses, including Tesla. There are a host of affordable offerings already out there today. That includes the Hyundai Ioniq Electric ($29,500), Ford Focus Electric ($29,190), Volkswagen E-Gulf ($30,495), Fiat 500e ($32,995), Chevy Bolt EV ($36,600), Honda Clarity Electric ($34,290), and of course the Tesla Model 3 ($35,000). But what sets our eS2000 apart from that pack is its focus on pure sportiness.
Superior Range
To succeed in this market, the eS2000 should cost no more than $35,000. It needs to have a viable range, somewhere in the neighborhood of 300 miles. That would slot it above both the base model Tesla Model 3 (220 miles) and the Chevy Bolt (238 miles), each of which are more expensive. So how, exactly, could Honda achieve that goal?
Modern Throwback
Well, in one word, simplicity. More gear equals more weight, and we don't believe the eS2000 needs much gear. True enthusiasts don't want fancy options like massive digital displays, overly stylized interior trim, or even cushy seats in their Honda S2000. What we want is a modern-day version of the simple, iconic roadsters of yesteryear that were lightweight and incredibly fun to drive.
Thus, we believe the eS2000 makes too much sense not to build. With a tried-and-tested platform already in development, it wouldn't cost much to do, either. From there, Honda can build the electric version of the ultimate driver's car - one that eschews unnecessary features and distractions that take away from the pure driving experience. And in the meantime, offer a new level of performance that traditional internal combustion engines simply can't match!