Honda’s latest electric vehicle (EV) concepts, the 0 Saloon and 0 SUV, have made a dramatic debut at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, showcasing the Japanese automaker’s bold new design direction.
However, Australian EV enthusiasts may not get to see these futuristic models on local roads anytime soon.
A Bold New Look for Honda EVs
The 0 Saloon and 0 SUV represent a significant departure from Honda’s traditional styling. Their cutting-edge designs are characterized by:
- Stepped Front End: The 0 SUV features a distinctive stepped grille design, housing an illuminated Honda badge flanked by rows of 15 LED headlights.
- Aerodynamic Sleekness: The 0 Saloon prioritizes wind resistance reduction with its sloped front end. Its innovative headlights are concealed behind sliding panels, which open only when activated.
- Bold Rear Designs: Both models feature upright rear ends with high rooflines, emphasizing spaciousness and a futuristic aesthetic.
- Panoramic Interiors: The cabins are dominated by wide panoramic displays, mirror camera screens, and yoke-style steering wheels. Extensive glass panels add an airy, open feel.
Advanced Features: Tech Meets Tradition
Honda’s 0 Series EVs are designed to combine cutting-edge technology with nods to the brand’s storied past:
- Retro-Inspired Instrument Cluster: The interior is said to include digital recreations of instrument clusters from iconic Honda sports cars like the S2000 and NSX, complete with simulated exhaust sounds played through speakers.
- Asimo OS: The EVs will run on Honda’s new Asimo operating system, paying homage to the company’s innovative ASIMO robots.
- Level 3 Autonomous Driving: Equipped with AI-driven and LiDAR-based systems, the 0 Series will offer semi-autonomous driving capabilities, enabling hands-free and eyes-free operation under certain conditions.
Under the Hood: Honda’s Electric Revolution
Beneath their striking exteriors, Honda’s 0 Series EVs pack impressive technology:
- Thinner, Lighter Batteries: Utilizing advanced Megacasting and 3D friction stir welding (FSW) technology, Honda has reduced the size of its battery packs by six percent, improving efficiency and range.
- Powerful Motors: Rear-wheel-drive models will feature a 180kW electric motor, while dual-motor all-wheel-drive variants will deliver up to 359kW.
- Improved Range: Fitted with nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) batteries, the EVs are expected to achieve over 480km of range.
Honda’s $96 Billion EV Commitment
These innovations are part of Honda’s massive 10 trillion yen ($96.25 billion) investment in EV development through 2032. The 0 Series will play a critical role in Honda’s push to expand its EV market share globally.
A Future Without Australia?
Despite these advancements, Honda Australia has confirmed that the 0 Series is not currently planned for the local market. With the first models set to launch in North America in 2026, followed by Europe, Asia, and other regions, Australia appears to be missing out on Honda’s EV revolution—at least for now.
Honda’s Potential Merger with Nissan
Adding to the intrigue, Honda is reportedly set to merge with Nissan by mid-2026. It remains unclear whether this partnership will impact the exclusivity of the 0 Series or its potential availability in new markets.
The Road Ahead
The Honda 0 Saloon and 0 SUV signal a bold new chapter for the brand, blending radical design, cutting-edge technology, and a nod to its heritage.
While Australian drivers may not see these models anytime soon, the 0 Series underscores Honda’s commitment to innovation and its ambition to redefine the EV landscape globally.
Dylan Anderson
