At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas, Honda provided an exciting preview of its future in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the introduction of two groundbreaking prototypes: the 0 Saloon and 0 SUV. These near-production models mark a significant step forward in Honda’s electrification strategy, set to launch in the first half of 2026. Both vehicles are part of Honda’s innovative 0 Series and will be manufactured at the company’s dedicated EV Hub in Ohio.
Pioneering Automated Driving Technology
A key highlight of the new 0 Series models is their incorporation of Level 3 automated driving capabilities, featuring the highly anticipated “eyes-off-hands-off” operation. Developed in collaboration with Helm.ai, Honda’s advanced software enables the vehicles to estimate their surroundings with human-like precision, making informed decisions in complex scenarios such as intricate intersections. This technology represents a significant leap in autonomous driving, promising enhanced safety and convenience for drivers.
Cutting-Edge Hardware and Intelligent Software
Supporting the automated driving capabilities is a high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) developed in partnership with Renesas Electronics Corporation. This robust hardware platform ensures seamless integration and efficient processing of the vast amounts of data generated by the vehicle’s sensors and cameras.
At the heart of Honda’s innovation is the ASIMO Operating System, named after the renowned ASIMO robot developed by Honda in the 1980s. This in-house AI software system integrates a multitude of cameras, sensors, and advanced intelligence technologies, enabling the vehicle to learn continuously about its environment and occupants. The ASIMO OS fosters a dynamic relationship between the driver and the car, adapting to emotional states and enhancing the overall driving experience.
A Relationship Beyond Driving
Honda envisions a unique interaction between drivers and their vehicles, where the car recognizes and responds to the emotional states of its occupants. If the system detects that the driver is worried, it may initiate a conversation to alleviate tension. Similarly, the vehicle can share moments of joy, fostering a more engaging and personalized driving experience. As Dr. Kim Jae-Hyun, the principal researcher behind the ASIMO OS, stated, “This technology could lead to safer, longer-lasting batteries for a range of applications.”
Future-Proofing with Advanced Battery Technology
In addition to pioneering automated driving features, Honda is investing heavily in battery technology to support its EV ambitions. The new EV Hub in Ohio is equipped to produce battery modules that will power Honda’s dedicated EV platform. With an annual production capacity of 10GWh, the facility underscores Honda’s commitment to scaling its EV production capabilities to meet growing demand.
Mazda’s CEO, Masahiro Moro, shared insights on the company’s progress: “We are progressing steadily with our in-house EV platform, aiming to introduce new dedicated EVs by 2027. This platform will deliver vehicles with advanced design, superior convenience, and extended driving ranges.”
Expanding the EV Ecosystem
Honda’s strategic partnerships extend beyond automotive giants, collaborating with technology leaders to enhance its EV ecosystem. The collaboration with Helm.ai and Renesas Electronics ensures that Honda’s EVs are not only advanced in terms of autonomous driving but also equipped with reliable and efficient hardware solutions.
Moreover, Honda is exploring the development of solid-state battery technology, positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions. This investment reflects Honda’s long-term vision for reducing environmental impact while maintaining high performance and reliability in its vehicles.
Looking Ahead
The unveiling of the 0 Saloon and 0 SUV at CES 2025 signals Honda’s unwavering dedication to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. As the company prepares to launch these models in 2026, it continues to push the boundaries of what EVs can achieve, blending advanced technology with a deep understanding of driver needs and preferences.
Honda’s holistic approach, combining cutting-edge automated driving systems, intelligent software, and robust battery technology, positions the brand to compete fiercely in the evolving EV market. With the introduction of the 0 Series, Honda reaffirms its commitment to delivering vehicles that offer not only performance and efficiency but also a meaningful and personalised driving experience.
As the automotive landscape rapidly shifts towards electrification and autonomy, Honda’s latest developments ensure that it remains a key player, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.
