Honda has set its sights on an electrified future with the unveiling of the “Honda 0 Series,” a global electric vehicle (EV) lineup slated for a 2026 launch. The anticipation reached its peak at CES 2024, where Honda took center stage to reveal two captivating concept models, the Saloon and Space-Hub. This move signifies Honda’s commitment to shaping a new era of mobility, emphasizing qualities like lightweight design, intelligent technology, and sustainable materials.
The Vision
Honda’s Global CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, articulated the vision behind the Honda 0 Series, stating, “The mobility we dream of is not an extension of the trend of ‘thick, heavy, but smart’ EVs. We will create a completely new value from zero based on thin, light, and wise as the foundation for our new Honda 0 EV series to further advance the joy and freedom of mobility to the next level.”
Global Debut of Two Electrifying Concepts
At CES 2024, Honda introduced two electrified concept models that embody the essence of the Honda 0 Series:
The Honda 0 Saloon
- The Saloon stands as the flagship concept model of the Honda 0 Series, built on a dedicated EV platform.
- It encapsulates Honda’s “M/M” (man maximum/machine minimum) packaging concept, offering a low and wide exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior, all adorned with sustainable materials.
- Inside, a cutting-edge human-machine interface (HMI) ensures simple and intuitive operations.
- The Saloon promises an exceptional driving experience, emphasizing excellent visibility and a sporty driving position.
The Honda 0 Space-Hub
- Developed with the theme of “augmenting people’s daily lives,” the Space-Hub is designed to create a flexible and spacious cabin.
- Its “Thin, Light, and Wise” approach provides excellent visibility and connectivity, making it a true “hub” that connects people to each other and the world around them.
New “H” Mark Logo
To symbolize this historic transformation, Honda has unveiled a new “H” mark logo, representing two outstretched hands, emphasizing Honda’s commitment to expanding the possibilities of mobility. This new logo will exclusively grace the next-generation EV models, including the Honda 0 Series.
The Honda 0 Series Vision
The Honda 0 Series represents a paradigm shift in EV development, guided by three core principles: Thin, Light, and Wise. These principles break free from traditional EV constraints, offering a dedicated “thin” EV platform, intelligent software-defined mobility products, and more, all rooted in Honda’s longstanding engineering philosophies.
Key Highlights of the Honda 0 Series
1. Harmonious Artistic Design:
– “The Art of Resonance” design philosophy brings together the environment, society, and users in harmony, using sustainable materials and evoking emotion through design.
2. Advanced Driver-Assistive System (ADAS) and Automated Driving:
– Honda 0 Series models will feature an advanced ADAS system based on Honda SENSING Elite.
– In the late-2020s, the series will offer the next generation of AD (automated driving) features, enhancing safety and confidence on the road.
3. Connected Technologies:
– An original operating system will learn user preferences and behaviors, enhancing the ownership experience.
The system will provide information about the surrounding areas and additional route guidance for a seamless journey.
4. Enhanced Aerodynamics and Performance:
– Leveraging Honda’s motorsports expertise, the Honda 0 Series models will feature advanced aerodynamics for electrified vehicles, promising a sporty driving experience.
5. Battery Efficiency:
– Honda is committed to developing highly efficient EVs, featuring e-Axles for power and efficiency.
– The series will offer fast-charging, reducing charging times to approximately 10-15 minutes from 15% to 80% capacity.
– Battery performance is optimized to minimize degradation over time, with a target of less than 10% after a decade of use.
Honda’s introduction of the Honda 0 Series represents a pivotal moment in the automotive industry, with a bold commitment to the future of electrified mobility. By emphasizing thinness, lightness, and wisdom, Honda is poised to redefine what EVs can achieve, promising an electrifying future for drivers around the world. Stay tuned for the North American debut of the Honda 0 Series in 2026, as Honda continues to push the boundaries of innovation.
IMAGES: HONDA
