Honda's Wild 0 Series Electric Vehicles Set for 2026 Release
Last year at CES, Honda introduced the wild 0 Series EV concept with its wedge-shaped design. Curious to see their progress, North American journalists ventured to Japan in the fall. Surprisingly, Honda didn't deter from its dramatic design when transitioning the concept to market. Instead, they showcased two wilder 0 Series EV prototypes at this year's CES, pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle aesthetics even further.
Honda acknowledged its late entry into the EV market but opted for a phased approach, first launching the Prologue, a crossover produced in partnership with General Motors. Now, in an era where EV interest falters in the U.S., Honda aims to pique consumer interest with its revolutionary designs.
Unlike the concept innovations from last year, the displayed prototypes represent a closer-to-production reality. The Honda 0 SUV takes the lead, borrowing the Space-Hub concept's emphasis on EVs as personal "spaces". The interior boasts increased space and minimized weight due to novel manufacturing processes. Furthermore, mechanical components are computer-controlled, promising seamless performance and driving enjoyment.
The 0 Saloon follows, boasting a futuristic styling that places it among the avant-garde of the vehicle world. Mechanically, it mirrors the SUV, but the design sets it apart. Both vehicles will run on a new operating system known as Asimo, inspired by Honda's beloved humanoid robot. The 0 Series cars will seek to foster a relationship with their owners and those close to them while also offering level three autonomous driving capabilities.
These Honda creations represent a significant pivot for the company, with consumers gaining a taste of their innovation in 2026.
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Enrichment Insights:
- The Honda 0 Saloon maintains the styling design from last year's CES concept. It features a low, wedge-shaped profile and boasts more interior space than anticipated based on external dimensions.
- Honda 0's SUV prototype is inspired by the Space-Hub concept, emphasizing the EV's role as a personal "space" for its occupants. It boasts a spacious cabin, an outstanding field of view, and remarkable flexibility.
- Both Honda 0 Series EV prototypes are scheduled for release in the U.S. market in 2026. The Honda 0 SUV will hit dealership lots first, followed by the 0 Saloon. After their U.S. debut, they will be introduced to the global markets, including Japan and Europe.
- The Honda 0 Series models will utilize advanced automated driving technologies, backed by Honda’s Level 3 automated driving technology, enabling eyes-off technology in traffic jams on highways and expanding via over-the-air updates.
- The ASIMO OS, named after Honda’s beloved humanoid robot, will offer "ultra-personal optimization," creating a mobility experience tailored to each user using advanced AI technology.
- Honda is developing high-precision attitude estimation and stabilization control based on 3D gyro sensors, technology derived from its original robotics technologies, to enable dynamic driving on various road surfaces.
- Honda is developing a Home Energy Management System to improve the overall EV ownership experience, promoting reduced environmental impact.
- Honda has partnered with Renesas Electronics Corporation to develop a high-performance System-on-Chip (SoC) for the next-generation Honda 0 Series models, which will be introduced in the late 2020s. This SoC is vital for enabling Honda's SDVs (Software-Defined Vehicles).
The tech industry is eagerly anticipating the release of Honda's 0 Series EVs in 2026, as they promise to revolutionize the electric vehicle market with their futuristic designs and innovative technologies. In line with this, Honda's strategic partnership with Renesas Electronics Corporation is seen as a significant leap towards realizing software-defined vehicles (SDVs) in the future of tech and transportation.
