Honda’s first in-house-produced dedicated battery electric models for the North America market are expected in 2026. This week, at CES 2024 in Las Vegas, the carmarker will debut two radical-looking designs that point the way to the new Honda 0 Series, as well as a new logo.
The concepts, which are dubbed the Space-Hub and the Saloon, resemble a futuristic Odyssey and Accord. The van-esque and sedan vehicles are both sleek, one-box designs that appear to glide through the air with little resistance. The designs are intended to illustrate Honda’s lighter approach to EV development, riding on a thin vehicle architecture with a low floor to enhance aerodynamics.
The Saloon begins with a rectangular entrance surrounded by three slender LED light strips and a backlit updated “H mark” logo. That new logo will only be used on the 0 Series BEVs. The similar concave appearance can be seen in the back, but with the underbody sloping downwards with red perimeter lights. The car seems to ride incredibly low to the ground, reminiscent of Formula One racing. The inside is minimalist, with a single central display.
The Space-Hub resembles a minivan, with short overhangs and a rear light. The Space-Hub will also include a massive panoramic sunroof that bends over to the sides. Inside, there are two bench seats, with occupants looking inward, similar to the Canoo lifestyle vehicle. There is no rear window.
Although no official specifications have been disclosed, Honda claims that these future EVs will be largely or fully autonomous, based on the Honda Sensing Elite system, which was introduced in Japan in 2021 on a limited run of Legend sedans.
Honda, like many other automakers, plans to include more AI-powered capabilities in its future car portfolio. AI capabilities that learn from the driver’s behavior, as well as vehicle data and other real-time data, to assist in making recommendations to improve the user experience.
The 0 Series lineup will use an e-axle configuration, with the motor, power inverter, and gearbox all integrated at the axle. Honda is also focusing on increasing the energy density of the battery in order to reduce its weight and size while maintaining sufficient range.
Honda is also aiming to ensure battery longevity, with a goal of less than 10% deterioration over ten years of use. Honda’s goal for 0 Series models launched later in the decade is to achieve 15-80% fast-charge in 10-15 minutes.
