Get ready, car enthusiasts! Honda is about to unleash a game-changer in the automotive arena with its most ambitious new vehicle in a generation. For nearly six months, the Honda 0 Series SUV Concept has been quietly waiting in the wings, and now it’s evolved from "concept" to "prototype." This thrilling shift signifies that what you see now is nearly identical to what will hit the roads by 2026. The automotive landscape has witnessed a rise of innovative newcomers like Tesla and BYD, but Honda is making it clear: the legacy brands are not backing down. Just as companies like Volkswagen and Stellantis are shaking things up in Europe, Honda is ready to remind us all that Japanese automakers have been hard at work, ensuring they remain competitive. This all begins with the cutting-edge SUV, which will take aim at the C and D segments, putting it in direct competition with best-sellers like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Skoda Enyaq. With a revolutionary mix of technology, design, and efficiency, the 0 SUV is poised to make waves.
But hold onto your hats, because the excitement doesn't stop with the SUV! Honda plans to follow up with the groundbreaking 0 Saloon just a few months after production for the SUV kicks off in late 2026. We recently had the opportunity to get a firsthand look at the 0 SUV prototype. While some concept car aesthetics are still present, our impression was overwhelmingly positive for a vehicle that still has two years before its UK debut. The Honda 0 SUV could very well be the shining example of Japan’s ability to integrate consumer electronics into an exciting road-ready package. At the core of Honda’s new electric vehicle lineup is a state-of-the-art architecture designed from the ground up with three guiding principles: “light, thin, and wise.” Though these terms might sound like marketing fluff, the real test lies in the design—one that enhances space and functionality. Unlike anything Honda has produced before, the 0 SUV features batteries mounted directly into the chassis base, which lowers cabin height and creates more interior room.
This clever design approach means that even though the 0 SUV doesn’t sport a towering roofline, it still feels spacious and airy within. Improved aerodynamics reduce the 'pendulum' effect that can plague high-riding electric SUVs, making driving a more stable experience. The body structure is revolutionary too, with a dramatic, pulled-back windscreen, a glass roof, and slim pillars to maximize natural light inside. The rear design, reminiscent of a van, is intentional—when you open the boot, it reveals an expansive, adaptable space that’s plenty functional, maximizing storage right up to the roof. Honda also incorporated nifty cubbies with drop-down doors, enhancing practicality, and these features are slated for production. The 0 Saloon will leverage a similar architectural advantage, allowing for dramatically lower seating positions and a sleek roofline, while maintaining other modern elements like a glass roof and slim seat structures.
Now let’s dive deeper into what really sets the 0 SUV apart. Honda is shifting the manufacturing paradigm, employing innovative aluminium casting techniques for large chassis components. This not only streamlines production but also enhances stiffness and structural integrity, paving the way for much-improved ride quality. Honda’s battery casing has been optimized as well, reducing the component count from 60 to just five parts, shedding around 100 kg in overall weight for the forthcoming 0 SUV compared to the traditional methods. To amp up performance, Honda's cutting-edge e-motors are not only more compact but also up to 40% lighter, which bolsters efficiency significantly.
While specific battery specifications are still under wraps, Honda assures that these packs will compete fiercely with upcoming rivals set to launch within the next couple of years. Both the SUV and Saloon variants will be available with a rear-mounted motor or opt for a dual-motor setup, producing between 241 hp and 480 hp. Additionally, Honda is gearing up to deploy a 'software-defined vehicle' framework, centralizing electronic coordination and enhancing the overall driving experience. This approach enables substantial savings in development speed, allowing various electronic modules to interact with a unified digital brain rather than multiple isolated systems.
What’s the immediate impact? For starters, Honda can expedite development timelines thanks to this cohesive digital platform. New features will be easier to implement, leading to significant benefits for customers, like expanded over-the-air updates and quicker connections to public charging points. The revamped interior experience promises to integrate a user-friendly infotainment system that feels intuitive and harmonious with the driving experience, thanks to the new Asimo OS, named after Honda's celebrated robot. Expect a futuristic interface devoid of physical buttons and centered around a large touchscreen.
Of course, the 0 SUV does come with its fair share of surprises, including a striking yoke-style steering wheel. Honda is also developing a steer-by-wire system, which removes the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels, allowing for a more responsive steering experience. The interior feels roomy, boasting an impressive amount of headroom, thanks to the innovative battery layout that preserves foot space for rear passengers. With a design that is both wide and low, the Honda 0 SUV provides a generous feel while remaining sleek and proportioned, demonstrating Honda's commitment to efficient and intelligent design.
Exciting news reaches us regarding the cars' development—the 0 SUV prototype was showcased recently with none other than Formula One champion Max Verstappen at the wheel. If the prototype is any indication, we’re in for a thrilling ride. With production kicking off next year and sales beginning in North America, the 0 SUV will soon make its way to global markets, including Europe and Japan. Prepares to be dazzled as Honda sets the stage for an electric future that promises both innovation and excitement!