Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has officially unveiled its next-generation technologies at the highly anticipated Honda 0 Tech Meeting 2024, introducing the innovations set to power the all-new Honda 0 Series. This new electric vehicle (EV) series, scheduled for a global release starting in 2026, will feature groundbreaking technologies developed under Honda’s unique “Thin, Light, and Wise” approach to EV design.
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Honda 0 Series: A New Era of Electric Vehicles
The Honda 0 Series is a fresh take on EVs, created from scratch with a bold approach that combines artistic design, cutting-edge automated driving systems, connected IoT solutions, and superior energy efficiency. Here’s a look at the five core values Honda aims to bring to the table with its 0 Series:
- Artistic Design: A visually striking design that connects emotionally with consumers.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Ensuring safety with cutting-edge driving technologies.
- Connected EV: Transforming vehicles into connected spaces, leveraging the power of IoT.
- Driving Experience: Offering a dynamic and responsive driving feel.
- Energy Efficiency: Pioneering world-class energy efficiency in EV performance.
Honda 0 Series Concept Models and Timeline
At the CES 2024 event in Las Vegas, Honda showcased two key concept models from the Honda 0 Series—the Saloon and the Space-Hub. These innovative models are set to hit the global market, with the Saloon becoming the flagship production model by 2026. In total, Honda plans to introduce seven models globally by 2030, covering small, medium, and large vehicles to cater to a broad range of consumers.
Honda will take things up a notch at CES 2025 with the unveiling of a new Honda 0 Series model, which will embody the core technological advancements introduced during the Honda 0 Tech Meeting 2024.
Technological Advancements: “Thin, Light, and Wise”
Honda’s focus on “Thin, Light, and Wise” technology represents a revolutionary leap in the EV world.
1. Thin and Low-Profile Design
The “Thin” approach embodies Honda’s classic Man Maximum, Machine Minimum (M/M) principle, emphasizing minimal vehicle space and maximum comfort. With a lower vehicle height and shorter overhangs, Honda aims to provide a spacious and stylish ride while maintaining a sleek profile.
2. Lightweight Innovation for Superior Driving
Under the “Light” approach, Honda aims to deliver a sporty driving experience paired with world-class energy efficiency. The company has developed a new EV platform, incorporating ultra-high-strength steel and a thin battery pack for better stability, lighter weight, and enhanced safety.
3. Wise Development Approach
The “Wise” approach leverages intelligent technologies to create Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) that continually evolve with Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. With AI-powered driving assistance systems and autonomous driving capabilities, Honda’s 0 Series is engineered to get smarter over time, ensuring both safety and an enhanced driving experience.
Cutting-Edge EV Technology
Honda’s EV platform combines a range of advanced technologies, including:
- Compact e-Axle: Developed with downsized inverter technology, reducing size by 40%, while offering powerful performance.
- Thin Battery Pack: New manufacturing techniques have made the battery 6% thinner, contributing to a lighter vehicle and increased range.
- Active Aerodynamics: A new system automatically adjusts the front aero deflector to reduce drag and boost stability, enhancing energy efficiency without compromising usability.
Future of Automated Driving: AD/ADAS Technologies
Honda’s AD/ADAS systems will feature next-gen Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities. By integrating LiDAR and high-definition camera sensing, Honda promises safe and reliable driving assistance that adapts to real-world conditions. In a move toward creating a fully autonomous vehicle, Honda plans to offer eyes-off technology for more driving scenarios, aiming to provide customers with unmatched peace of mind.
Advanced Production and Manufacturing
Honda’s commitment to innovation extends beyond just the vehicles themselves. The battery pack production line features high-precision Megacasting technology, reducing parts from 60 to just 5 and significantly boosting production efficiency. Additionally, the CDC joining technology enables the integration of lightweight, high-strength materials, further enhancing vehicle performance and safety.
What’s Next for Honda?
Honda has ambitious plans to continue pushing the envelope of EV innovation. By combining intelligent technologies with world-class vehicle design, the automaker is set to revolutionize the future of mobility. From expanding its range of Level 3 autonomous driving features to launching seven EV models by 2030, Honda’s 0 Series is poised to make a lasting impact on the automotive industry.
Stay tuned for more updates from Honda, including the unveiling of the next Honda 0 Series model at CES 2025, and get ready to experience the future of driving with Honda’s next-generation EVs.
Source: Honda