>> Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV Prototypes Make Global Debut at CES
>> Honda Announces New ASIMO Operating System
>> Both Honda 0 Series models confirmed for production in 2026 at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio
>> ASIMO OS, a new original vehicle operating system (OS) developed by Honda, will offer a customized mobility experience
0 Series models set to advance Honda’s global leadership of Level 3 (eyes off) automated driving
>> Honda in agreement to develop a high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) with Renesas Electronics Corporation for the next-gen Honda 0 Series models
>> Honda accelerating energy service initiatives with the Home Energy Management System

January 8, 2025 — LAS VEGAS - Honda unveiled the first models in its new 0 Series line of electric vehicles at CES 2025: the Honda 0 SUV and Honda 0 Saloon prototypes. Production versions will launch in North America in 2026, with a global rollout to follow.

The company also introduced its ASIMO OS for 0 Series vehicles, named in tribute to the iconic ASIMO robot and embodying the series' "Wise" value. Honda announced a partnership with Renesas Electronics to develop a high-performance system-on-chip for future 0 Series models in the late 2020s and revealed a Home Energy Management System for a seamless, eco-friendly EV ownership experience.

HONDA 0 SUV PROTOTYPE
Honda unveiled a prototype mid-size EV SUV, the first Honda 0 Series model based on its new dedicated EV architecture. Inspired by the Space-Hub concept from CES 2024, the Honda 0 SUV applies a “Thin, Light, and Wise” design for a spacious cabin with excellent visibility and flexibility, redefining the EV interior as a versatile "space" for people.

Like the Honda 0 Saloon, the SUV features next-generation technologies under the “Thin, Light, and Wise” approach, including ASIMO OS for ultra-personal optimization and digital UX. A steer-by-wire system integrates steering, suspension, and brakes for exceptional handling.

The production version, built at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio, will launch in North America in early 2026, with global markets, including Japan and Europe, to follow.

HONDA 0 SALOON PROTOTYPE
The Honda 0 Saloon, the flagship model of the Honda 0 Series, further advances the concept model introduced last year at CES 2024 and will feature several next-generation technologies that embody the “Thin, Light and Wise” development approach of the Honda 0 Series. While staying true to the bold styling design of the concept model, the prototype features both a low height and sporty “wedge-shaped” styling that sets the Saloon apart from other EVs in the market. The low-slung cabin is complemented by an interior that is more spacious than expected based on the exterior dimensions.

At CES 2025, Honda is previewing specific technologies and features that contribute to the “Wise” value of the Honda 0 models. This includes the highly reliable automated driving technologies backed by Honda’s Level 3 automated driving technology, as well as “ultra-personal optimization” of ASIMO OS that will offer a mobility experience customized for each individual user.

A production model of the Honda 0 Saloon – built at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio – is scheduled to be introduced first in the North American market in late 2026, followed by global markets, including Japan and Europe.

ASIMO OPERATING SYSTEM (OS)
Honda 0 Series models will feature ASIMO OS, an in-house vehicle operating system named after Honda's iconic ASIMO robot. First introduced over 20 years ago, ASIMO was a humanoid robot known for autonomous walking and interacting with people, symbolizing Honda's pioneering robotics research since 1986. The ASIMO OS embodies the "Wise" value of the Honda 0 Series, aiming to make these EVs as innovative and inspiring as ASIMO.

ASIMO OS integrates robotics advancements like environmental recognition and autonomous behavior control with cutting-edge intelligence technologies to power software-defined vehicles (SDVs). It manages vehicle systems such as automated driving, advanced driver assistance (AD/ADAS), and in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) through unified electronic control units (ECUs).

The system supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, enabling continuous enhancements to features, services, and driving dynamics for a personalized and evolving ownership experience. Honda plans to equip all 0 Series models, including the Honda 0 SUV and Saloon, with ASIMO OS to redefine the joy of driving and user interaction.

AUTOMATD DRIVING (AD) TECHNOLOGY
In 2021, Honda became the first automaker to launch a vehicle with Level 3 automated driving capabilities, introducing the Honda Legend equipped with Honda SENSING Elite. Available for lease in Japan, this vehicle allowed "eyes-off" conditional driving automation in specific areas.

Honda SENSING Elite was designed to anticipate all driving scenarios, aiming to eliminate collisions that human drivers could have avoided. Honda sees widespread adoption of eyes-off technology as a key step toward achieving zero traffic fatalities and plans to make affordable automated driving technologies accessible globally through the Honda 0 Series.

To achieve this, Honda will utilize advanced AI technologies, including Helm.ai's unsupervised learning and experienced-driver behavior modeling, enabling efficient learning with minimal data. Original cooperative AI will also enhance precision in complex behaviors like yielding the right of way, creating a highly reliable driver assistance system for unexpected situations such as animals crossing the road or falling debris.

Honda 0 Series models will feature systems that gradually expand Level 3 capabilities, starting with eyes-off technology for highway traffic congestion and evolving through OTA updates. Level 3 automation will enable drivers to focus on other tasks, such as watching movies or attending virtual meetings. Honda aims to be the first automaker to extend eyes-off functionality to all driving conditions, unlocking new mobility possibilities.

DEVELOPMENT OF SOC DEDICATED TO HONDA 0 SERIES
Honda and Renesas Electronics Corporation have partnered to develop a high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) for future software-defined vehicles (SDVs) in the Honda 0 Series.

Starting in the late 2020s, next-generation Honda 0 Series models will feature a centralized electrical/electronic (E/E) architecture that consolidates multiple ECUs into a single core ECU. This core ECU will control various systems, including AD/ADAS, powertrain, and comfort features, requiring a powerful and energy-efficient SoC.

To meet these demands, Honda and Renesas will utilize multi-die chiplet technology to integrate Renesas' fifth-generation R-Car X5 SoC series with a custom AI accelerator developed by Honda. This system aims to deliver top-tier AI performance of 2,000 TOPS (Sparse) and 20 TOPS/W power efficiency, setting a new industry standard.

ENERGY SERVICE
Honda aims to make 0 Series EVs accessible, enjoyable, and environmentally friendly by focusing on two key areas: building a stress-free charging network and leveraging EV batteries for cleaner, smarter living.

Charging Network:
Honda is working to ensure 0 Series owners can charge their vehicles effortlessly. In North America, Honda joined seven automakers to create the IONNA network, aiming for 30,000 high-quality charging stations by 2030. By adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS), Honda plans to expand access to over 100,000 stations by the same year. Additionally, Honda is exploring personalized charging services using Amazon Web Services (AWS) to help drivers find stations, simplify payments, and tailor charging experiences.

Renewable Energy Integration:
To support carbon neutrality, Honda is advancing its Smart Charge service, combining home energy management and grid integration systems. Starting in 2026, Honda will offer services that lower electricity costs and CO2 emissions, allowing 80% of EV charging to happen at home. The 0 Series EVs can act as virtual power plants, charging during low-cost, renewable energy periods and supplying excess energy to the grid, reducing household bills and stabilizing electricity supply. Honda’s advanced battery management minimizes wear from frequent charging and discharging, ensuring long-term reliability.

SOURCE: HONDA NEWS

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