Honda unveiled the Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV prototypes at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), announcing production plans at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio for 2026, aiming to enhance their leadership in Level 3 automated driving.
Honda 0 Series production details
Both Honda 0 Series models, the SUV and Saloon, are set for production in North America in 2026. The Honda 0 SUV is scheduled for an introduction in the first half of 2026, followed by the Honda 0 Saloon in late 2026.
The prototypes will feature innovative designs, with the exterior reflecting a sleek, future-oriented aesthetic diverging from Honda’s current models. Honda emphasizes three core principles in the development of the 0 Series: “Thin, Light, and Wise.”
Advanced technologies and systems
The Honda 0 Series will incorporate Honda’s new vehicle operating system (OS), known as ASIMO OS, which draws its name from the Honda ASIMO robot. This system is designed to offer highly automated driving technologies, including Level 3 (eyes-off) automated driving across various scenarios.
Honda confirmed an agreement with Renesas Electronics Corporation for developing a high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) tailored for the 0 Series. This module will improve vehicle efficiency and performance through centralized architecture combining multiple electronic control units (ECUs) into a single core ECU.
Honda 0 SUV prototype features
The Honda 0 SUV prototype, a mid-size electric vehicle, will utilize Honda’s dedicated EV architecture. It focuses on spacious interior design and enhanced visibility, promising an evolving space designed for passengers. The SUV will adopt a steer-by-wire system for improved handling and integrated control dynamics.
This vehicle aims to feature next-generation technologies, including ultra-personal optimization made possible by the ASIMO OS, ensuring a tailored mobility experience for users.
Honda 0 Saloon prototype features
The Honda 0 Saloon prototype serves as the flagship model for the 0 Series. It showcases a sporty, low-height design emphasizing spaciousness, standing out among other electric vehicles. Key features include advanced automated driving technologies and personalized user experiences facilitated by ASIMO OS.
Both prototypes will highlight Honda’s commitment to providing a customized mobility experience that adapts to individual user needs through continuous over-the-air (OTA) software updates.
Energy services and sustainability efforts
Honda is advancing energy service initiatives including the Home Energy Management System, developed in partnership with Emporia Corp. This system aims to enhance the ownership experience of EVs while minimizing environmental impact.
In North America, Honda, alongside eight automakers, intends to develop a charging network called IONNA, targeting the deployment of at least 30,000 high-quality charging stations by 2030. Honda 0 Series models will adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS) to expand access to over 100,000 charging stations by 2030.
The Honda Smart Charge service will manage home charging, ensuring efficiency by leveraging renewable energy and optimizing electricity costs for users. The collective fleet of Honda 0 Series vehicles can also act as a virtual power plant, providing energy back to the grid when needed.
Automated driving technology
Honda pioneered Level 3 automated driving with the Honda Legend in 2021, equipped with Honda SENSING Elite technologies. The aim is to expand automated driving capabilities across driving situations, enhancing safety and alleviating driver workload.
Future Honda 0 Series models will leverage AI advancements to improve driver assistance capabilities, including recognizing complex road behaviors and unexpected obstacles.
Featured image credit: Honda
