Driving Into 2026: Honda’s New EV Saloon to Feature Self-Driving Tech

At the 2024 CES, the Honda brand introduced a new electric vehicle series, the 0 Series. Honda unveiled two models, the Saloon and Space-Hub. The sedan Saloon, which is said to be launched first, received much attention.

Regarding the 0 Series, Honda said, “We will prioritize weight reduction and aerodynamic performance and emphasize the pleasure of driving.” Saloon is scheduled for a global launch in 2026, and additional information about Saloon was recently revealed.

Model Y technology used
Planned to be equipped with an e-axle device

Honda reportedly plans to introduce a light model by minimizing the parts used in the Saloon and adopting a lightweight aluminum chassis structure. Additionally, the technology used in the Tesla Model Y will be applied to the Saloon’s chassis to reduce component complexity, weight, and cost.

Honda has also developed an e-axle device to help reduce the weight of next-generation electric powertrains. This device includes a motor, inverter, and gearbox within a single device and can save about 100 kg (221 lbs) of weight compared to Honda’s existing electric vehicle. Honda said the Saloon will be all-wheel drive, hinting it would use a pair of e-axles.

Uses Skateboard Platform
Aims to Reduce Vehicle Weight

Honda said heavy components, such as the powertrain, battery, etc., will be mounted low and centrally in the body. This has indicated that the vehicle is a skateboard platform-based model. It is said that using a skateboard platform can reduce the thickness of the bottom, making it lighter and providing a sportier driving position.

In the case of the Saloon, the complexity of the electric vehicle will be further reduced by using a CPU system chip array rather than the chip array deployed in existing cars. This can reduce manufacturing costs and further improve the speed of digital device functions. Additionally, the CPU system enables level 3 assisted driving technology, where the vehicle drives itself without a driver under limited conditions.

Offers More Than 300 Miles of Range
Plans to Manufacture Batteries In-House

Through EPA testing in the US, the Saloon was certified to have a driving range of over 482 km (300 miles). Meanwhile, Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe previously said, “Instead of reducing the size of the battery, we are thinking about battery technology.”

In addition to developing battery technology, Honda plans to produce batteries in-house to reduce vehicle manufacturing costs. It was also announced that it will begin battery production in 2025 in collaboration with LG Energy Solution. Honda plans to reduce battery costs by 20% by the end of 2030 by recycling batteries and investigating raw material procurement.