Honda Unveils Two New EV Concept Models
At CES 2024, Honda announced the “Honda 0 Series,” a new global electric vehicle (EV) series launching in 2026. Honda presented two concept models at CES, the Saloon and Space-Hub. In 2026, Honda will introduce a model of the Honda 0 Series based on the Saloon concept in North America, followed by model introductions in Japan, Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Models in the Honda 0 Series will feature a new design philosophy called “The Art of Resonance” which brings together the environment, society, and users in harmony. This includes the use of sustainable materials and evoking emotion through design.
Honda also debuted a new H mark logo that will be used exclusively for the next-generation EV models. “The mobility we dream of is not an extension of the trend of ‘thick, heavy, but smart’ EVs,” said Toshihiro Mibe, global chief executive officer of Honda. “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.”
Both models were developed using a new Honda electrification design and engineering approach that will debut with the introduction of the Honda 0 Series. “We have gone back to basics and formulated the Honda 0 Series with a design for the new era,” said Shinji Aoyama, Global EVP of Honda. “A bold and pure proportion that from the first glance is overwhelmingly different from other EVs to evoke a new perspective for people.”
Saloon
The Saloon is the flagship concept model of the Honda 0 Series. Sitting on a dedicated EV platform, the Saloon delivers on the Honda man maximum/machine minimum (M/M) packaging concept with its low and wide exterior coupled with a surprisingly spacious interior. Sustainable materials are used throughout the exterior and interior. Inside, the instrument panel features a human-machine interface (HMI) that enables simple and intuitive operations.
In addition to the new exterior and interior design, the Saloon also debuts advancements of new steer-by-wire and motion control management systems. Leveraging the company’s decades of expertise in robotics, the Saloon features posture control that will assist the driver in a variety of driving situations to realize the “joy of driving” in the EV era.
A production vehicle based on the Saloon concept is expected to come to the North American market in 2026.
Space-Hub
The Space-Hub was developed under the theme of “augmenting people’s daily lives.” Realizing a spacious cabin and excellent visibility based on the “Thin, Light, and Wise” development approach, the Space-Hub offers a flexible space that immediately accommodates a variety of passengers and becomes a “hub” that connects people to each other and the outside world.
Deployment Of ADAS And Automated Driving Features
The Honda 0 Series will feature an advanced driver-assistive system (ADAS) that uses the technologies found with Honda SENSING Elite, which was first deployed in 2021 with the Honda Legend in Japan.
Additionally, in the second half of the 2020s, Honda 0 Series models will be equipped with the next generation in automated driving (AD) features, including availability on more affordable EV models to introduce AD systems at a wider scale.
The AD system is being developed based on Honda’s “human-centric” safety concept. Honda said it will feature advanced artificial intelligence (AI), sensing, recognition, and driver monitoring technologies to achieve more human-like, natural, and high-precision risk predictions, making it possible to offer AD features people can feel safe and confident using. This AD system will expand the application of some hands-off functions for use on both expressways and surface streets.
Connected Technologies
Honda is developing an original operating system for the Honda 0 Series models. Using AI and driver data, the vehicle will learn the user’s preferences as well as behaviors and tendencies while driving, allowing the vehicle to make suggestions to enhance the ownership experience. Moreover, the vehicle will provide information about the surrounding areas, and additional route guidance for the “last mile” to the destination, to help users after they arrive and leave their vehicle. The vehicle will continue to offer new value as it better understands user behavior. The more people use their vehicle, the more rewarding the ownership experience becomes, adding to the “fun of being connected.”
Enhanced Aerodynamics Performance
Honda will use exclusive electrification and performance technologies to offer a sporty driving experience with the Honda 0 Series models. Leveraging years of motorsports experience, including Formula 1 racing, the models will feature advanced aerodynamic technologies that will bring a new level of performance for electrified vehicles.
New Level of Battery Efficiency
The Honda 0 Series models will feature e-Axles which will allow for power and efficiency along with lightweight packaging. The Honda 0 Series models will feature a high-density battery that will offer ample range while minimizing battery size.
To address concerns about charging time and battery degradation, Honda 0 Series models will offer stress-free charging and battery performance that minimizes degradation over time. For the Honda 0 Series models launching in the late-2020s, fast-charging from 15% to 80% of battery capacity will be shortened to about 10 to 15 minutes. In the meantime, by applying battery system control technology, Honda is targeting to minimize the degradation of battery capacity to less than 10% after 10 years of use.
