Honda is set to introduce a new small electric vehicle (EV) in North America with a price tag below $30,000 by 2026. This move is part of Honda’s strategy to expand its presence in the battery-powered car market. The Japanese automaker plans to manufacture this cost-effective model locally, potentially as part of the “Honda 0 Series” EV lineup.
The company recently showcased prototype models of the Honda 0 SUV and Honda 0 Saloon at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Production of these models is scheduled to begin at American Honda Motor Company’s facility in Ohio. The Honda 0 SUV is expected to be the first to roll off the production line, with a North American launch planned for the first half of 2026, followed by a global rollout.
Honda has been lagging behind other companies like Tesla, Volkswagen, and BYD in the EV market but has set a goal for battery-powered and fuel-cell vehicles to make up 100% of its new car sales by 2040. American Honda Motor Company has projected a 6% increase in vehicle sales to 1.51 million units by 2025, following a 9% rise to approximately 1.42 million in 2024.
Last year, the CRV mid-size SUV emerged as the top-selling model for Honda, with 402,791 units sold, including hybrid versions. The company attributed the boost in sales to an easing of production constraints, which allowed for a consistent supply of products to dealerships.
Overall, Honda’s entry into the affordable EV market in North America signifies a significant step towards achieving its long-term goals in the electric vehicle sector. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in its push towards a more electrified future for the automotive industry.