It may become the source of some frustration to Tokyo’s car fans that they can’t get a coffee out of Honda’s latest wacky concept. The N-Van will only be displayed virtually at this year’s online event.
But Covid-19 accommodations notwithstanding, the stainless steel panel van is an adorable ode to the food truck thanks to its wealth of features and details.
Named the “3rd Place VAN” for reasons that are not immediately clear to this writer, the coffee shop is based on a Honda N-Van.
According to Honda’s press site (and translated by Google), “it is a model that proposes it as a trailer-style cafe that seamlessly connects work and hobbies, such as staying in a cafe on weekdays and in a car on holidays.”
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To my eye, it looks a little like one of those Citroen vans made of corrugated steel, thanks to the three ripples down the side. The bare stainless steel finish, too, gives the 3rd Place VAN a great kitcheny feel.
The striped awning, though, is the real star of the show. At once twee and practical, it’s exactly the kind of attention to detail I like in an auto show one-off.
Honda also took the opportunity to unveil the FIT e:HEV CROSSTAR Custom. Lifted and on rugged all terrain tires, it takes the friendly Fit and turns it into a capable bad ass. With a Yakima roof rack carrying heavy-duty containers, it looks ready for whatever 2021 can send its way.
You’ll be able to see these, along with a fine array of Honda’s race cars when the virtual Tokyo Auto Salon kicks on January 15.
