Hybrid technology can be difficult to compare, especially when different manufacturers use their own terminology. Honda’s e:HEV system is its full hybrid powertrain, designed to operate efficiently in everyday driving without the need to plug in.
This guide explains what e:HEV is, how the system works in real-world conditions, and how it differs in practice. Honda uses this hybrid system across several models, including the Civic, Jazz, HR-V and CR-V.
What does e:HEV mean?
e:HEV stands for Hybrid Electric Vehicle. It is Honda’s full hybrid system that combines a petrol engine with two electric motors and a battery.
The system is designed to operate automatically across different driving situations, switching between electric and petrol power as needed. This allows the car to run on electric power at lower speeds and use the petrol engine when higher or more sustained power is required.
Unlike plug-in hybrids, an e:HEV does not need to be connected to an external charger. The battery is charged through driving and regenerative braking, meaning the system manages energy use without requiring changes to everyday routines.
Discover the Honda Hybrid Range
How does Honda e:HEV work in everyday driving?
Honda e:HEV uses a two-motor hybrid system that adapts to driving conditions in real time. At lower speeds, such as in town or in traffic, the electric motor usually provides the drive. This supports smooth, quiet operation in stop-start situations.
At higher speeds, such as on faster A-roads or motorways, the petrol engine connects directly to the wheels to provide efficient cruising. The system moves automatically between electric, hybrid and engine drive without driver input.
This approach allows the system to prioritise electric drive when it is most effective and rely on the petrol engine when sustained speed is needed.
The three e:HEV driving modes explained
Honda e:HEV effortlessly switches between three driving modes to suit all driving situations.
- Electric
- Hybrid
- Engine
Electric drive
In Electric Drive, the vehicle is powered solely by the electric motor. This is typically used at low speeds or during gentle acceleration. The petrol engine remains off unless more power is required or the battery needs charging.
Hybrid drive
In Hybrid Drive, the petrol engine generates electricity to power the electric motor, which then drives the wheels. This mode is often used when additional power is needed, such as when accelerating or climbing gradients. Excess energy can be stored in the battery.
Engine drive
In Engine Drive, the petrol engine powers the wheels directly through a lock-up clutch. This mode is most commonly used at steady cruising speeds, where direct engine drive is more efficient. Electric assistance can still be added when required.
How does an e:HEV hybrid battery charge?
An e:HEV is a self-charging hybrid. This means the battery is charged while driving and does not need to be plugged in.
- Braking
The battery is recharged in two main ways:
1. By the petrol engine acting as a generator.
2. Through regenerative braking, which captures energy normally lost when slowing down.
This allows the system to maintain battery charge during everyday use. The battery is designed for long-term operation and forms part of the vehicle’s overall hybrid system rather than being treated as a standalone power source.
What makes a Honda hybrid different?
Honda’s e:HEV system is designed around an electric-first driving approach in many everyday situations. This means electric drive is prioritised at lower speeds, with the petrol engine supporting the system when conditions demand it.
Key characteristics include:
A two-motor hybrid layout.
Automatic switching between drive modes.
Regenerative braking that operates without changing how the car is driven.
A system that manages power delivery without driver input.
Discover moreWhat is it like to drive an e:HEV hybrid?
An e:HEV isn’t just powerful, but enjoyable too. Driving feels smooth and efficient, with seamless, gentle acceleration for laid-back city cruising or breezy motorway journeys. This means you get that EV feel without sacrificing on fuel or quality.
Stop-start traffic and short trips
Traffic buildup is more manageable with an e:HEV. Its electric motors allow for low-speed movement, making pull-away smooth while saving fuel and reducing noise. The driving experience is seamless for short inner-city trips, with quick, responsive transitions between electric and engine power – all without driver input.
A-roads, motorways, and longer drives
The e:HEV is highly responsive in high-speed situations. The electric motors provide immediate torque for rapid acceleration and agile handling on A-road journeys. On motorways, the system often switches to Engine Driving mode to manage constant speeds. Cruising is stable with minimal engine noise, ensuring comfort and solid performance throughout your journey.
Next steps if you are exploring hybrid options
HR-V
Self-charging full hybrid; mid-size SUV
Honda e:HEV hybrid powertrain
Up to 459 miles driving range*
Up to 1,274 litres of boot capacity**
Honda SENSING as standard
Honda CONNECT infotainment system with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®
Features front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera and heated front seats as standard.
Jazz
Self-charging full hybrid; Ideal for urban driving
Honda e:HEV hybrid powertrain
Up to 550 miles driving range*
Up to 1,205 litre boot capacity**
Honda SENSING as standard
Honda CONNECT infotainment system with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®
Features front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera and adaptive cruise control as standard.
Jazz Crosstar
Self-charging full hybrid; SUV-inspired styling
Honda e:HEV hybrid powertrain
Up to 550 miles driving range*
Up to 1,205 litre boot capacity**
Honda SENSING as standard
Honda CONNECT infotainment system with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®
Features higher ground clearance, roof rails, front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera and heated front seats as standard.
CR-V
Large Premium SUV. Choice of full hybrid or plug-in powertrain
Honda e:HEV hybrid powertrain
Up to 596 miles full hybrid / 50 miles pure electric driving range*
Up to 1,710 litres of boot capacity**
Honda SENSING 360 as standard
Honda CONNECT infotainment system with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®
Features front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera, digital driver’s display, heated front seats and steering wheel as standard.
Civic
Self-charging full hybrid; Sporty family hatchback
Honda e:HEV hybrid powertrain
Up to 521 miles driving range*
Up to 1,220 litres of boot capacity**
Honda SENSING with Traffic Jam Assist
Honda CONNECT infotainment system with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®
Features front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera, adaptive cruise control and heated front seats as standard.
ZR-V
Self-charging full hybrid; dynamic, sporty SUV with sleek lines
Honda e:HEV hybrid powertrain
Up to 621 miles driving range*
Up to 1,322 litres of boot capacity**
Honda SENSING as standard
Honda CONNECT infotainment system with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®
Features 18” alloys, front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera, digital driver’s display and heated front seats as standard.
Prelude
A blend of sporty performance, refined comfort and hybrid efficiency – setting it apart in today’s coupe market.
Honda e:HEV hybrid powertrain
Up to 472 miles driving range*
S+ Shift technology to simulate virtual gear changes
Three drive modes: Comfort, GT, and Sport
Features 19" alloys, Premium Bose Audio 8 speakers, heated front seats, privacy glass, and paddle shifters as standard.
