The Honda Prologue: How well does it fit into the EV market?
Source: Honda
Introduction
What is the Honda Prologue? After nine years of driving a Honda CR-V in various weather conditions, I've found it to be a reliable and capable family vehicle. As Honda pursues electrification, I'm excited about the upcoming Prologue, an all-electric CR-V model that's scheduled to launch in 2024. The vehicle is the result of Honda's partnership with General Motors and shares GM's modular Ultium platform and battery technology. As a CR-V owner who appreciates its practicality, I'm curious to see how effectively Honda can translate those qualities into an electric vehicle.
Batteries
Driving range per charge is the pivotal specification for electric vehicles and is directly tied to battery technology. The type of batteries used - their chemistry, cell design, energy density, thermal management, etc. - primarily determines how far an electric car can travel on a single full charge. While factors like vehicle weight and powertrain efficiency impact range, the capabilities of the actual battery pack remain the driving force behind real-world mileage. Consequently, automakers pursue innovations in battery chemistry, capacity, manufacturing, and integration to maximize range. For consumers, selecting an electric vehicle hinges on assessing whether its EPA-rated range satisfies their driving and recharging needs. Range anxiety diminishes as batteries improve and infrastructure expands. But for now, EVs succeed or fail based on their ability to deliver battery technology enabling a useful, comfortable driving distance.
Tesla
Tesla utilizes lithium-ion batteries in their vehicles - the prevalent battery type in EVs - for attributes like high energy density, low weight, and durability. The exact lithium-ion cells in a Tesla model may vary.
legacy 18650 and 2170 cells
newly developed 4680 cells
lower-cost lithium iron phosphate (LFP)
These batteries are rigorously engineered for safety, with cooling systems and battery management software to prevent issues like overheating or overcharging.
While covered by an 8-year, 100k mileage warranty, Tesla batteries are built to retain up to 70% capacity after a decade. The 4680 cell exemplifies continuous innovation - its larger size houses more energy for increased range, while simplified manufacturing lowers expenses. Only the dual-motor Model Y currently uses 4680s, but the technology will likely proliferate across Tesla's lineup for its performance and economic advantages. LFP chemistry also expands choices, better suiting shorter-range vehicles with its durability and affordability.
General Motors
General Motors' new Ultium battery technology represents a strategic push to make electric vehicles more efficient, durable, and affordable. Diverging from cylindrical cells, these lithium-ion batteries utilize a large-format pouch which maximizes energy density through tighter, space-saving stacking. Liquid cooling and an intelligent management system reinforce safety by regulating temperature and preventing overheating or overcharging. By manufacturing the batteries in-house with new materials and an optimized cell design, GM aims to lower costs as well.
Range
Driving range per charge remains a key purchasing factor for EV buyers, along with access to charging infrastructure. The Prologue's projected 300 mile range may dip slightly as its Chevy Blazer EV twin which shares the same GM Ultium platform achieved a 279 mile EPA rating.
Honda's new agreements with EVgo and Electrify America, as well as its adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS), give drivers access to thousands of fast chargers, including Tesla Superchargers. This should meet the needs of most daily drivers.
Exterior
Source: Honda
The Prologue's exterior borrows from the CR-V resulting in smooth, minimalist surfaces with truncated overhangs. More similar to the Volks Wagan ID.4 than the Nissan ARIYA or the Kia EV9, high end models gain 21-inch wheels that nicely fill out the proportions. While not boundary-pushing, the simplified, graceful shapes present a handsome evolution of Honda's restrained design language. For a volume mainstream electric SUV, Honda opted for mass appeal over provocation.
Interior
Source: Honda
Rather than a radical redesign, the Prologue's interior evolves the CR-V's layout with smart integration of new technology. Unlike Tesla's reliance on a large central touchscreen, Honda augments the existing dashboard with an 11.3-inch display, preserving physical controls while adding connected features.
The spacious cabin offers generous legroom and ample cargo space. The Prologue's infotainment system seamlessly integrates smartphones via wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drivers can wirelessly access music, maps, messaging and more from their iOS or Android device. The center console wireless charging pad eliminates cords by using Qi technology to refuel compatible phones on the go. By combining wireless connectivity and charging, the Prologue removes hassles and distractions from integrating personal devices. Drivers can enjoy the full capabilities of their smartphone ecosystem through the vehicle interface, without ever plugging in a cord.
The standard 12-speaker Bose audio system immerses occupants through Centerpoint's simulated surround sound and RichBass enhancement. AudioPilot adapts output based on ambient noise, optimizing the listening experience.
Safety
A popular feature with Tesla owners is AutoPilot. AutoPilot is Tesla's suite of advanced driver assistance systems that aim to enhance safety and comfort behind the wheel. It combines capabilities like adaptive cruise control, automatic lane centering, and emergency braking.
The Prologue comes packaged with an array of active systems designed to help avoid collisions and alert drivers to potential hazards. Key features include automatic emergency braking capable of detecting pedestrians and functioning at highway speeds. Drivers also get blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, rear braking assistance, and blind spot steering control. Rounding out the suite are rear pedestrian warnings when reversing.
Warranty
Honda is standing behind the Prologue with the same comprehensive warranty coverage offered on all its new vehicles. This aligns with the warranty protection typically included with electric SUVs from other major automakers as well. By providing the Prologue with this industry-standard warranty, Honda demonstrates confidence the vehicle will deliver the same lasting quality and reliability that the brand is known for across its lineup.
This includes but is not limited to:
Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 mile
Electric components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles
Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for two years or 24,000 miles
Conclusions
Source: Cupra
Unlike the Cupra Tavascan, the Prologue takes a more practical approach. Home and public charging options aim to minimize range anxiety, with DC fast charging delivering an 80% charge in just 30 minutes.
However, as a latecomer to the EV market, the Prologue faces risks like finding its positioning between hybrid and gas-powered CR-V models given its $45-50k estimated pricing. Competition from veteran EV maker Tesla also looms, as overlapping shoppers eye the Tesla Model Y despite segment differences.
Honda views the Prologue as the first step on the road to wider electric vehicle adoption. The Prologue offers a chance to evaluate mass market demand for EVs while establishing a platform for future growth. This strategy allows Honda to incrementally adapt as the market develops. While clearly committed to electrification long-term, Honda's steady, test-the-water mindset means judicious EV entries like the Prologue will gradually pave the way forward rather than risk revolutionary change overnight. This promises a smooth transition that stays true to Honda's heritage.
