At CES 2025, Honda showcased a glimpse into its vision for the future with a robust lineup of electric vehicles that transcends the Afeela 1 which it is making via its joint venture with Sony. Marking an evolutionary step in sustainable transportation, the brands highlighted their commitment to combining advanced technology with practical design. Honda announced new sedans and SUVs under the Zero brand which will be EVs with vertically integrated technology.
Honda Zero: Saloon Sedan and SUV
Honda revealed two trailblazing EVs under its Zero lineup: the Honda Zero Saloon sedan and the Honda Zero SUV. Both vehicles are slated for production in 2026 and are designed with "thin, light, and wise" principles. These EVs leverage Honda's proprietary Asimo OS, a tribute to its iconic humanoid robot.
The Honda Zero SUV, inspired by the Space-Hub concept, introduces innovative design elements, including a unique cargo area featuring fold-down tables. Meanwhile, the Honda Zero Saloon offers sleek aesthetics reminiscent of retro-futurism, complete with adaptive interior features like a rotating yoke-style steering wheel for enhanced accessibility.
The Asimo OS Revolution
Both models are powered by the newly developed Asimo OS. This system integrates automated driving features with ultra-personalised digital experiences. Built on Honda's AI expertise, it supports Level 3 autonomy, allowing drivers to take their attention off the road under specific conditions. Over-the-air updates ensure that the vehicles remain technologically up-to-date, delivering improved functionality and safety over time.
Collaboration with Renesas
Honda has partnered with Japanese semiconductor giant Renesas to develop a single system-on-a-chip capable of managing an array of functions, from AI-driven automation to powertrain and comfort features. This innovation aims to streamline electronic control units (ECUs) and enhance the responsiveness of these vehicles.