Honda has unveiled its latest electric vehicle range called the 0 Series at Consumer Electronics Show 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The two concept EV models called the Saloon and the Space-Hub represent two segments of mobility. The Saloon is the flagship limousine model, while the Space-Hub is the lifestyle-oriented concept for today’s active consumer.
Honda has also premiered the new ‘H’ logo, the first time the logo has seen an overhaul since 1981, over 40 years ago. The new H logo signals a change in design and direction for all of Honda’s future models.
Guided by the brand’s slogan—“The Power of Dreams: How We Move You”—the ‘0’ (zero) is a return to a clean slate, a new direction for the brand that focuses on zero environmental impact and zero traffic accidents involving both Honda motorcycles and automobiles.
Critical to achieving the latter is the implementation of the latest ADAS (advanced driver-assist systems) technologies in the form of Honda Sensing 3 in Honda’s upcoming 0 Series of EVs. It is Honda’s premium-level active safety system currently fitted on the Legend flagship sedan.
The 0 Concept EVs are built with Honda’s revolutionary approach to EV construction.
The Thin approach focuses on an EV-specific platform with a low-floor, low-profile design for better aerodynamic efficiency and eschews the chunky look often intrinsic to the current crop of EVs.
Meanwhile, Light focuses on Honda’s desire to maintain a sporty and engaging driving characteristic while improving efficiency thanks to reduced mass and weight. Typical EVs of today feel so heavy with blunt driving feel, a core value of all Honda vehicles since the brand’s inception.
Finally, Wise is focused on all the lessons and technologies Honda has amassed through the years to deliver not just a well-designed, safer, fun-to-drive, and efficient vehicle, but also one that offers the latest convenience features that seamlessly integrate into our respective lives.
These lessons include:
1. Artistic designs that evoke resonance with the environment of the time.
2. Advanced driver-assistance systems that not only improve safety, but automated driving features that will also allow drivers and occupants added safety and convenience on long drives.
3. A space that provides occupants not only a place to safely travel in, but also one to allow them to work, relax, and enjoy thanks to improved connectivity via wireless Internet technology.
The Internet of Things technology and artificial intelligence will also enable the vehicle to learn your preferences in music, climate control, and more.
Lastly, there’s a last-mile guidance wherein the 0 Concept vehicles will give tips, reminders, and pointers to the last segment of your journey. That’s very useful tech if you’re going to a destination for the very first time.
4. The “Joy of Driving” and the feeling of connectedness with the vehicle. Lighter weight improves feel and connectivity that improves driver enjoyment. Today’s current crop of EVs is extremely powerful, often to hide their massive heft at the cost of efficiency. Honda aims to go against this grain and build lightweight EVs for the sake of driving pleasure.
5. Impressive efficiency and decreased battery degradation. Honda promises improved efficiency and range from its new e-axle technology, and crucially is striving for a less-than-10% decrease in battery performance and efficiency in 10 years or longer—or about 50% to 100% improvement over current EV battery technology.
The company also promises safer rapid charging of 15 to 20 minutes from 20% to 80% on the later releases of its EVs, if not better. Truly exciting times ahead for the EV segment as Honda finally joins the fray.
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