Honda has embarked on a journey to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) landscape with the introduction of its 0 Series during CES 2024. This innovative series is set to include two concept electric vehicles, the Saloon and Space-Hub, with plans to roll them out in the North American market by 2026. The Honda 0 Series represents a significant step in the company’s EV strategy, focusing on low-height vehicles that promise a unique combination of design and functionality.
The naming of the series, “0”, signifies a fresh start, aligning with Honda’s mission to focus on the essential principle of ‘man maximum, machine minimum’. This design philosophy aims to maximize the space available for occupants while minimizing the area needed for mechanical components. It’s a concept that Honda believes will redefine the way electric vehicles are designed, making them more user-centric.
Saloon and Space-Hub: A new breed of electric vehicles
The Saloon, the flagship model of the Honda 0 Series, challenges traditional city car designs with its ground-hugging stature and distinctive silhouette. The vehicle features an elongated frame that slopes dramatically at the front, sporting an innovative front bumper design. The side profile is marked by geometric cuts on the doors and windows, complemented by prism-shaped tires.
The Saloon’s gull-wing doors reveal a spacious interior, with extensive legroom, cocoon-like bucket seats, and a tech-laden instrument panel. This panel features a window-to-window HD display that integrates the steering wheel, enhancing the driving experience with intuitive controls.
The Space-Hub, on the other hand, offers even more cabin space with its van-like structure. It departs from traditional seating layouts in favor of a face-to-face arrangement, creating a communal space in the center. This design choice not only facilitates interaction among passengers but also enhances their travel experience with panoramic views through an all-glass, tint-adjustable roof.
Thin, Light, and Wise: The core of the Honda 0 Series
Both the Saloon and Space-Hub embody Honda’s new approach to EV development: creating vehicles that are thin, light, and wise. The low floor height of these vehicles not only contributes to their unique aesthetics but also improves aerodynamics. Honda’s use of a proprietary platform enables these EVs to achieve a near-ground touch, enhancing their performance.
The emphasis on lightweight construction is paired with advanced aerodynamic design principles borrowed from Formula racing. Meanwhile, the “wise” aspect is reflected in the integration of cutting-edge AI, sensing, and driver monitoring systems, ensuring a safe and responsive driving experience.
In conjunction with these vehicles, Honda has unveiled a revamped logo design. Moving away from the design that has been in place since 1981, the new logo features a chunkier “H” with a unique curvature that mirrors the seating arrangement of the Space-Hub. This redesign symbolizes Honda’s commitment to innovation and its readiness to embrace the future of electric mobility.
Pricing and availability
As of now, Honda has not released specific pricing details for the 0 Series. However, the company’s plans to launch these models in the North American market by 2026 suggest that more information will become available as the release date approaches. Potential buyers and EV enthusiasts can expect competitive pricing that reflects the advanced technology and unique design features of the Honda 0 Series.
Source: Honda
