Although the Japanese automaker has not provided an exact timeline for expanding its product line, a top executive at Honda has confirmed that the company will develop low-end electric vehicle models.
In an interview with Autocar, Honda’s head of automotive operations Shinji Aoyama said, “That’s what we want to achieve by the end of the 2020s.”
CE0 Toshihiro Mibe also shared the same view, saying, “To increase volume, we need more affordable electric vehicles.” Honda’s current task is to reduce the cost and weight of electric car batteries without compromising the existence of small, affordable electric vehicles.
However, Mibe suggested, “Instead of reducing the size of the battery, we want to consider battery technology,” hinting at the possibility of alternative chemical and technical solutions for the new project.
Honda had previously agreed to share the development of affordable electric vehicles with long-time partner General Motors, but the $5 billion plan was canceled at the end of last year as the US company shifted focus to higher-profit segments.
Mibe said, “Even if we collaborate in development, launching a large-scale, affordable electric vehicle in the market would be a challenge.
“We have decided to independently research affordable electric vehicle models. Honda has other alternative strategies to accomplish this,” Mibe said.
At the CES 2024 exhibition in Las Vegas, Honda showcased two new electric vehicle concepts, which are seen as previews of Honda’s new design language and engineering philosophy. Among them, the Saloon concept is considered a preview of the electric Civic.
This concept model has an extremely impressive design. The front end features a sharp arrow interface in a supercar style, while the curved back follows a fastback design. The notable highlight on the Saloon Concept is the presence of a completely new Honda logo in a classic style, which will be used exclusively for Honda’s future electric vehicle models.
The cabin is designed in a minimalist style with a single screen stretching across the width of the dashboard, similar to Mercedes-Benz Hyperscreen. It also features a unique reverse U-shaped steering wheel.
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