Although ‘zero’ can have negative connotations in some instances, it can also refer to a starting point (eg making a fresh start by starting from zero). Honda is applying the positive meaning of zero to its approach to EV development, with new ideas the automaker is generating from ‘zero’.
This fresh approach will be used to develop some of the next-generation technologies to be applied to the Honda 0 Series, a completely new EV series planned for launch in the global market starting in 2026.
The 0 Series is being developed with the approach of ‘Thin, Light, and Wise’, with 5 core values that will be offered:
- Artistic design that resonates with people
- Automated Driving/Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (AD/ADAS) that ensures safety and peace of mind
- New value of EV as a ‘space’ for people made possible by the Internet of Things (IoT) and connected technologies
- The joy of driving with the feeling of oneness with the vehicle
- Outstanding electricity efficiency performance
At CES 2024 held in Las Vegas in January this year, Honda unveiled two concept models of the 0 Series – the Saloon and the Space-Hub. It also announced plans to launch a production model of the Saloon in 2026, and the production car will be close to the Saloon concept model, and it will be positioned as the flagship model of the 0 Series. Eventually, the EV series will have total of 7 models globally by 2030, covering the small, medium and large segments.
Thin and Light
With the ‘Thin’ development approach, Honda will continue to value and realize the M/M (Man Maximum, Machine Minimum) concept in this EV era and strive to offer new value of EVs as a comfortable ‘space’ featuring an original design with a low vehicle height and short overhangs.
Newly developed dedicated EV platform
Adopting the 2.0 GPa grade hot stamping material (ultra-high strength steel plate), Honda has developed a new EV platform to realize both thin and low-height styling, as well as the safety and peace of mind of the occupants. In addition, combined with the adoption of a thin battery pack and a newly developed compact e-Axle, the original Honda low-floor technology enables a low centre of gravity and low inertia by placing heavy components low and in the centre of the vehicle.
Newly-developed compact e-Axle
The motor and inverter technologies Honda has accumulated through the development of hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) will be utilized in fully electric vehicles to realize a compact and highly efficient e-Axle. The inverter was downsized by approximately 40%, which made it possible to achieve a horizontal layout package where the inverter is placed side by side with the motor, something that has been difficult to achieve in the past.
Thin battery pack
The IPU (battery) case will be made approximately 6% thinner through the adoption of megacasting and 3D friction stir welding technology. In addition, by adopting a body structure which is designed to disperse the impact of a collision, the extra space needed to protect the battery will be reduced, which will result in a larger area available for mounting a battery. With these technologies, a lighter and thinner battery pack will be installed with maximum efficiency, contributing to an extension of the range for 0 Series models.
Furthermore, Honda is striving to limit the degradation of battery capacity (range) to less than 10% after 10 years of use by applying battery degradation diagnosis and prediction technology that utilizes driving data from 5 million Honda vehicles, mostly HEVs.
Active aerodynamic system
Honda has developed an active aerodynamic system that will automatically activate the front aero deflector according to the vehicle speed and other factors. The front aero deflector is installed under the floor to reduce air resistance for all vehicle body types including the ones with high vehicle height or with styling that are susceptible to air resistance, such as SUVs.
In addition to reducing driving energy without compromising daily usability, this system will enable the vehicle to demonstrate high downforce performance and contribute to an increase in straight-line stability of the vehicle.
Advancement of technologies
The application of the world’s first CDC joining technology will enable the expansion of the range of use of lightweight and high-strength materials. This will improve electricity efficiency performance through the reduction of the body frame weight and enhance passive safety performance at the same time.
Connected technologies
Honda will create original software-defined vehicles and make the vehicles themselves more intelligent. To be more specific, Honda will develop its original vehicle OS; then, in line with the advancement of connected technologies, this can offer new mobility experiences to customers by applying intelligent technologies optimized for each customer.
Honda is also developing its AD/ADAS with an aim to offer ‘experiences that make people want to go out more spontaneously’ by supporting safe and seamless mobility for the entire journey from home to destination and vice-versa.
Digital User Experience (UX)
Through the use of intelligent and digital technologies, Honda is striving to offer new and inspiring EV-based mobility experiences, while minimizing user stress and maximizing the driving and in-vehicle enjoyment. To offer a stress-free in-vehicle experience for customers, Honda will thoroughly simplify operation of the in-vehicle infotainment system and continuously advance the support with the voice assistant personalized for each customer.