Anticipate a sleek, futuristic design paired with a robotic-themed operating system on the way.
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- Honda reconfirms its commitment to line-up of bold new EVs
- The Honda 0 SUV will launch in North America in early 2026
- Asimo operating system will bring advanced levels of automated driving
Don’t worry, dear reader, you’re not experiencing a persistent case of CES déjà vu. Indeed, Honda has once again unveiled its vision for the forthcoming 0 Series electric vehicle lineup, introducing what they referred to as the Saloon and the Space-Hub at last year's exhibition... featuring concept cars that bear a striking resemblance to those previously shown.
However, the Japanese brand asserts that progress is accelerating, reaffirming its dedication to the innovative and striking wedge-shaped designs by showcasing its 0 SUV and 0 Saloon prototype models at this year's technology festival in Las Vegas.
Although the Saloon resembles last year's model, sporting a vibrant new color scheme and revised headlight design, the 0 SUV provides perhaps the clearest glimpse of what we can expect from this innovative range of upcoming electric vehicles.
The angular, MPV-inspired design of last year's concept has been replaced by a more conventional SUV front, featuring a sleek rear that resembles that of an estate or shooting brake.
The Japanese brand has announced that the 0 SUV is set to hit North American markets in early 2026, with the sleek and elongated Saloon model expected to follow soon after. Additionally, both vehicles are anticipated to be available in global markets, including Japan and Europe.
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Honda has previously alluded to its "Thin, Light and Wise" approach, aiming to minimize the dimensions and weight of battery packs. This initiative is intended to create a range of electric vehicles that are lighter, sleeker, and more efficient.
Although it didn't go so far as to reveal battery specs, Honda instead honed in on the ‘Wise’ element of the aforementioned mantra at this year’s show, revealing that it has developed an in-house operating system (Asimo OS) that it says will allow for Level 3 ‘eyes-off’ automated driving.
For those who remember, Asimo was that adorable robot known for its antics like kicking a soccer ball or tumbling down stairs. Honda has announced that it has taken inspiration from Asimo's intelligence to create its newest operating system.
The firm asserts that progress in its robotics technology, particularly in systems designed to understand external surroundings and human actions, will enable its upcoming vehicles to feature truly beneficial AI technology capable of anticipating driver needs and enhancing the reliability of driver assistance systems.
Analysis: Honda Embraces a Bold New Direction
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While Honda has not officially revealed any technical specifications for its anticipated 0 Series, set to include seven distinct models by 2030, the brand's dedication to cutting-edge technology and striking design indicates a genuine commitment to electric vehicles this time around.
Its Honda e was arguably ahead of its time, but the brand has stagnated in recent years, churning out reliable but relatively vanilla SUVs and small city cars with combustion engines or basic hybrid systems.
The Civic Type-R stands as a testament to the exceptional engineering prowess of the brand, showcasing the ultimate in driving excitement. However, its future remains uncertain.
It seems like the moment has arrived for Honda to reintroduce dependable yet thrilling vehicles that truly differentiate themselves in the market. Surely, we aren't the only ones imagining how impactful an all-electric Series 0 Saloon Type-R would be as a bold declaration of the brand's future direction.
