Honda to Unveil "0" Series EVs for Global Markets at 2024 CES

Honda is on a mission to launch 30 electric vehicles worldwide by 2030, some of which will make up a global family of EVs called the "0 (zero) series."

The concepts include a sporty wedge-shaped vehicle called the "Saloon" and a tall van-like design called the "Space Hub." Both concepts are based on a next-generation EV platform, and by designing a thinner battery, they succeed in increasing interior space while keeping the vehicle height low - part of a new design approach called "man-maximum/machine-minimum."

Honda has confirmed that a production version of the saloon concept will be available in 2026, including North America.

Honda is working to make the concept's design different from any of its current lineup, and this extends to a revised Honda H badge, which Honda said it will put on future EVs.

The interior features sustainable materials throughout and, at least in the saloon, a yoke-style steering wheel connected by a digital dash and steer-by-wire technology. According to Honda, the concept also features an easy-to-operate user interface. Without going into details, Honda said it is developing its own operating system for the 0 Series, which will integrate artificial intelligence to enable the car to learn the user's preferences and routines over time and assist with appropriate suggestions.

Automatic driving assist technology will also be a central component of the 0 Series. Honda said the vehicle could offer several hands-off features for use on both highway and suburban roads.

Honda did not say much about the EV technology that will be available on the 0 Series, but said that it will offer a high-density battery to ensure adequate range and that at least some vehicles will feature DC fast-charging capabilities that allow for 15-80% charging within 15 minutes. As for battery degradation, Honda said it aims to maintain at least 90% of the original range even after 10 years of EV use.

Honda, which has been hesitant about EVs in the past, is poised to make a major push into the field. This year, Honda plans to unveil the Prologue, a midsize SUV developed based on General Motors' Ultium platform and battery technology. In addition, GM will be responsible for the manufacturing process. Acura is following a similar path, preparing to launch the ZDX, an Ultium-based midsize SUV, in 2024.

Honda was also working on a line of affordable EVs based on an additional platform co-developed with GM, but this plan was cancelled last fall. The first model on the jointly developed platform was slated to go on sale in 2027, but Honda has not indicated whether it is still developing affordable EVs.

Separately, Honda is working with Sony to launch a new EV brand called Affira. The first Afila will be a sleek sedan and will go into production around 2025 at a North American plant, possibly one of Honda's existing plants in Ohio. A prototype of the Afila sedan was first shown at the 2023 CES, and at this year's show Honda and Sony unveiled an updated, more evolved version of the design.