Honda Admits Challenges in Redifining Electric Cars Entry-Level Market by 2030

Feb 03, 2024 06:26 AM EST

A HONDA CIVIC — (Photo : PEXELS/Zachary Vessels )

Honda plans to reshape the entry-level market by 2030. It's all set to expand its 0 Series electric vehicle lineup with an emphasis on affordable electric vehicles. The expansion plans to introduce electric alternatives for popular models like the Jazz supermini and Civic hatchback. The initial release will include a production version of the Saloon concept in 2026, closely followed by a related SUV model.

Redefining Electric Cars Entry-Level

As the auto industry transitions to electric vehicles, CEO Toshihiro Mibe emphasized the need of Honda offering more affordable EVs. Consequently, Honda is preparing to broaden its range of products by introducing an electric alternative to its legendary best-seller, the Civic.

Recently, the company unveiled two fresh EV concepts as part of its innovative "0 series" electric brand at CES earlier this month. Mibe highlighted how Honda has reexamined its fundamental values. Then, incorporated a design that acknowledges the emergence of electric cars. Therefore, setting it apart from other electric vehicles currently available in the market.

As reported recently, the first electric passenger vehicle under Honda's recently launched brand will take the form of a sedan, drawing inspiration from the flagship concept. Anticipated to make its debut in 2026, this fresh electric sedan will be succeeded by the introduction of an SUV in the near future.

The leader of Honda expressed that they are inclined to explore advancements in battery technology, instead of opting for battery size reduction.

Although Honda had initially collaborated with GM to produce cost-effective electric vehicles, the billion plan was abandoned, as GM shifted its focus toward reducing production expenses for its future vehicles.

Mibe noted that even in a collaborative development scenario, introducing an affordable electric vehicle to the market would have posed significant challenges. As a result, the choice was taken to independently seek the development of reasonably priced EVs.

Presenting Sustaina - C Concept

According to sources, the company recently unveiled its vision for a compact and economical electric vehicle, exemplified by the Sustaina-C concept. Inspired by the iconic Honda City, this retro-styled electric vehicle highlights sustainability with a recyclable acrylic bodyshell.

Nevertheless, the brand subsequently announced that the Honda E, which shares a similar size profile, would be discontinued from the market after just three years. Furthermore, there are currently no plans to introduce a similarly sized electric vehicle in the foreseeable future.

As shared by Global Honda website, Takeki Tanaka, the leader of the development project, conveys the sentiments and dedication invested in this conceptual model, as well as his vision for the future society.

The model was named "SUSTAINA-C," blending "SUSTAINA" for sustainability and "C" for compactness. The intention behind SUSTAINA-C is to create a sustainable, compact, and practical vehicle accessible to a broader audience.

Furthermore, Tanaka stated that their aim with the SUSTAINA-C was to align individual preferences (EGO) with environmental responsibility (ECO). Through the SUSTAINA-C, customers can savor the freedom of unrestricted travel in a car of their preferred color, all while minimizing concerns about its ecological impact.