Honda presents electric saloon and EV prototypes at CES

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Honda has showcased two prototype 0 Series models at the CES tech event in Las Vegas.

The futuristic-looking prototypes preview the fully electric Saloon and SUV models that will launch in 2026, delivering at least 300 miles (480km) of range.

The O Saloon and O SUV debuted in concept form at last year’s CES event where the brand first announced the 0 Series and revealed that it’s planning to launch seven models before the end of the decade.

Honda plans to launch seven new models by 2030 in the ‘0’ Series and says its development team has gone back to the starting point of the carmaker and reconsidered what kind of EVs it wants to create in the coming era.

At CES 2024, Honda said the new EV line-up would tackle charging concerns, offering “stress-free charging performance and worry-free battery performance that minimises degradation over many years of use”. This includes cutting the time taken for fast charging from 15% to 80% to about 10-15 minutes.

The Japanese carmaker is also working to limit the degradation of battery capacity (range) to less than 10% after 10 years of use.

The Honda 0 Saloon prototype further advances the concept model introduced last year, maintaining the styling design of the concept model and featuring a low height and sporty styling “that sets the Saloon apart from other EVs”, along with a cabin with a Tardis-like approach to delivering more space than expected.

At CES 2024, Honda premiered its ‘Thin, Light and Wise’ development approach, using a thinner battery design while also reimagining design, safety, space, joy of driving and efficiency for its EVs.

As the flagship model of the Honda 0 Series, the Saloon will be based on the newly developed dedicated EV architecture and will feature a number of next-generation technologies that embody the ‘Thin, Light and Wise’ design philosophy.

At CES 2025, Honda is particularly spotlighting the ‘Wise’ development approach for the 0 Saloon, showcasing various technologies and features. These include Level 3 automated driving technology, as well as “ultra-personal optimisation” that will offer a mobility experience customised for each individual user thanks to a new software operating system.
Honda has also debuted its 0 SUV prototype at CES 2025. Based on the Space-Hub concept model unveiled last year, it will be the first Honda 0 Series model to arrive. This model applies the ‘Thin, Light and Wise’ approach to create an SUV with a spacious cabin and “an outstandingly clear and unrestricted field of view with great flexibility”.

The Honda 0 SUV will also “enable dynamics at the will of the driver on various road surfaces” by using attitude estimation and stabilisation control based on 3D gyro sensors developed through the firm’s original robotics technologies.

Honda 0 Series models will also be equipped with the Asimo OS software operating system, named after the humanoid robot introduced by the carmaker in 2000 and drawing on its developments in robotics technologies since.

As a software platform, Asimo OS will apply integrated control of electronic control units (ECUs) for vehicle systems such as automated driving / advanced driver assistance systems and the in-vehicle infotainment system. Over-the-air updates will enable new and enhanced functions and services, tailored to meet the preferences and needs of each user.

Honda has also announced that it will rapidly expand global application of its Level 3 automated driving (eyes-off function) through the 0 Series, working to become the world’s first automaker to enable eyes-off driving in all driving situations.

The production models of the Honda 0 Saloon and O SUV are scheduled to arrive first in the North American market in 2026, then in global markets, including Japan and Europe.

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Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.