The Complete Guide to Honda Prologue Range and Efficiency
The Honda Prologue marks an exciting new chapter for the Japanese automaker as it enters the all-electric vehicle market. As Honda’s first purpose-built EV for the North American market, the Prologue offers an impressive range and energy efficiency that make it a compelling option for eco-conscious drivers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Prologue’s range, energy consumption, charging capabilities, and how it stacks up against the competition.
Key Specifications of the 2024 Honda Prologue
Before we dive into the details of the Prologue’s range and efficiency, let’s review some key specifications of this all-new electric SUV:
- Battery capacity: 85.0 kWh
- Drivetrain options: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
- Power output: 212 hp (FWD), 288 hp (AWD)
- Torque: 236 lb-ft (FWD), 333 lb-ft (AWD)
- Charging: Up to 150 kW DC fast charging
- Dimensions: 192.0 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, 64.7-65.2 inches tall
- Wheelbase: 121.8 inches
Prologue Range and Energy Efficiency by Trim Level
The 2024 Honda Prologue is available in three trim levels: EX, Touring, and Elite. Each trim offers slightly different range and efficiency ratings depending on the drivetrain configuration:
EX Trim (FWD)
- EPA-estimated range: 296 miles
- Energy efficiency: 107 MPGe combined (113 city / 99 highway)
EX Trim (AWD)
- EPA-estimated range: 281 miles
- Energy efficiency: 100 MPGe combined (107 city / 92 highway)
Touring Trim (FWD)
- EPA-estimated range: 296 miles
- Energy efficiency: 107 MPGe combined (113 city / 99 highway)
Touring Trim (AWD)
- EPA-estimated range: 281 miles
- Energy efficiency: 100 MPGe combined (107 city / 92 highway)
Elite Trim (AWD only)
- EPA-estimated range: 273 miles
- Energy efficiency: 92 MPGe combined (99 city / 84 highway)
As seen, the front-wheel drive versions of the EX and Touring trims offer the best range and efficiency, while the all-wheel drive Elite trim sacrifices some efficiency for added performance and features.
Understanding MPGe and kWh/100 miles
When discussing electric vehicle efficiency, it’s important to understand the metrics used. Unlike gasoline-powered vehicles that measure efficiency in miles per gallon (MPG), electric vehicles use different measurements:
MPGe (Miles Per Gallon Equivalent)
MPGe is a metric developed by the EPA to compare the energy efficiency of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to gasoline-powered vehicles. One gallon of gasoline contains approximately 33.7 kWh of energy, so MPGe represents the number of miles a vehicle can travel on 33.7 kWh of electricity.
kWh/100 miles
This metric represents the amount of electrical energy consumed to travel 100 miles. Lower numbers indicate better efficiency. For the Honda Prologue, the efficiency ratings in kWh/100 miles are:
- EX and Touring (FWD): 31 kWh/100 miles
- EX and Touring (AWD): 34 kWh/100 miles
- Elite (AWD): 36 kWh/100 miles
Factors Affecting Prologue Range and Efficiency
While the EPA-estimated range and efficiency ratings provide a good baseline, real-world performance can vary based on several factors:
- Driving Conditions: Highway driving tends to be more efficient for EVs compared to stop-and-go city traffic.
- Climate and Temperature: Extreme temperatures affect battery performance. Using climate control also consumes energy.
- Driving Style: Aggressive driving reduces efficiency. Smooth, consistent driving helps maximize range.
- Payload and Cargo: Heavier loads increase energy consumption.
- Tire Pressure and Type: Proper tire inflation and low-rolling-resistance tires improve efficiency.
- Terrain: Hilly terrain impacts range, but regenerative braking helps recapture energy on descents.
Charging the Honda Prologue
Understanding the Prologue’s charging capabilities is essential for prospective owners:
- DC Fast Charging: Supports up to 150 kW, adding 65 miles of range in 10 minutes.
- Level 2 AC Charging: The onboard 11.5 kW charger adds about 34 miles of range per hour on a Level 2 charger.
- Charging Times: Fast charging from 20% to 80% takes about 35 minutes, while a full charge with Level 2 takes approximately 11.5 hours.
Maximizing Range in the Honda Prologue
Here are some tips for Prologue owners to maximize their vehicle’s range:
- Use Eco Mode to optimize energy consumption.
- Adjust regenerative braking strength using steering wheel paddles.
- Plan efficient routes with built-in navigation or third-party apps.
- Precondition the battery before charging, especially in cold weather.
- Maintain proper tire pressure to reduce rolling resistance.
- Minimize climate control usage and avoid excessive speeds.