Honda has unveiled three new electric vehicles at its Japan Mobility Show, but the company's plans for the American market are becoming increasingly uncertain. The 0 Series α EV, a smaller version of the previously teased SUV prototype, is set to target emerging markets like India and may eventually make it to Europe. However, Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe confirmed that it will not be sold in the US due to its perceived lack of size.
The Super-One Prototype, a tiny hatchback with big box fenders, was also shown off at the Tokyo show. While its acceleration is impressive, with instant torque and a variety of synthesized engine notes, Honda will likely only target drivers in Japan and the UK. American mid-term elections are being closely watched by Mibe's team as they assess whether there's any hope for a change in the political climate.
Honda has largely paused its efforts to develop low-cost EVs for the US market, waiting for "political headwinds" to come around. The company is still committed to reducing its carbon footprint and aims to be totally carbon neutral by 2050. To achieve this goal, Honda will focus on advanced hybrids and direct air capture (DAC) technology.
However, the development of small, affordable EVs remains a challenge, particularly in terms of battery production. Mibe hinted that next-generation solid-state batteries may be necessary for the Super-One Prototype to become a reality by 2030. Ultimately, Honda's US EV aspirations will depend on which way the American government swings between now and then.
For now, Honda is focusing on expanding its volume and reducing costs through partnerships like its aborted collaboration with General Motors. The company will continue to push towards advanced hybrids and DAC technology, aiming to overcome engineering challenges and reduce its carbon footprint in the process.
The Super-One Prototype, a tiny hatchback with big box fenders, was also shown off at the Tokyo show. While its acceleration is impressive, with instant torque and a variety of synthesized engine notes, Honda will likely only target drivers in Japan and the UK. American mid-term elections are being closely watched by Mibe's team as they assess whether there's any hope for a change in the political climate.
Honda has largely paused its efforts to develop low-cost EVs for the US market, waiting for "political headwinds" to come around. The company is still committed to reducing its carbon footprint and aims to be totally carbon neutral by 2050. To achieve this goal, Honda will focus on advanced hybrids and direct air capture (DAC) technology.
However, the development of small, affordable EVs remains a challenge, particularly in terms of battery production. Mibe hinted that next-generation solid-state batteries may be necessary for the Super-One Prototype to become a reality by 2030. Ultimately, Honda's US EV aspirations will depend on which way the American government swings between now and then.
For now, Honda is focusing on expanding its volume and reducing costs through partnerships like its aborted collaboration with General Motors. The company will continue to push towards advanced hybrids and DAC technology, aiming to overcome engineering challenges and reduce its carbon footprint in the process.
they're getting soooo close to making sustainable cars for everyone! even though they might not make it to us just yet, i know they'll come up with something amazing soon. let's keep an eye on those solid state batteries tho 
- can't wait to see how they're gonna improve our daily drives 
we need cars that r priced right, not just for rich people or europeans 
like europe's getting those fancy hybrid buses and we're still stuck with old gas guzzlers 
honda should try harder to make affordable evs for us 
. I mean, I get it, size matters when it comes to EVs, but what about all the people who want something affordable and eco-friendly? It feels like they're missing an opportunity to make a difference in America 
. But at least they're still committed to reducing their carbon footprint and using advanced tech like DAC - that's definitely a step in the right direction 
. but let's be real, battery production is still a huge challenge, especially when it comes to making those small, affordable evs that everyone wants 
... I mean, what about all the other countries where people want these kinds of cars? 
to change their minds? that's just a bunch of spin 
... I need some real sources on this one, not just corporate PR 
Honda should focus on getting those battery tech upgrades sorted ASAP – solid-state batteries would be a game-changer 
i mean i get it they wanna focus on other markets first but thats not gonna help em out in the long run, americans are all about tech and sustainability rn 
anyway, i think its cool that they're pushing for direct air capture tech tho, thats some legit stuff 
it looks so cool!!! 
The 0 series ev does sound like a great start though 
but let's see what happens after those mid-term elections 
Fingers crossed they come out more EV-friendly 
. I guess we'll just have to wait and see which way Honda decides to go from here. It's definitely not ideal for EV enthusiasts in the US, though