Honda’s CES 2025 showcase wasn’t just another car reveal—it was a declaration of war. The Japanese automaker pulled the wraps off its 0 Series EVs, a duo of prototypes (the 0 Saloon and 0 SUV) designed to challenge Tesla’s dominance and outpace China’s EV giants. But what does this mean for Australia? Let’s dive into the details.
The 0 Series: Honda’s Electric Reboot
Table of Contents
Thin, Light, Wise: A New Design Philosophy
Honda’s 0 Series isn’t just about swapping petrol tanks for batteries. It’s a radical rethink of EV design, built on three pillars:
- Thin: Sleek aerodynamics and ultra-thin 8mm batteries maximize efficiency .
- Light: Megacasting techniques slash weight by ~100kg vs. rivals like the Tesla Model Y .
- Wise: AI-driven tech, including Level 3 autonomy and the ASIMO OS, personalizes every drive .
For Australians tired of bulky EVs with mediocre range, the 0 Series promises a nimble, tech-forward alternative.
Meet the Prototypes: 0 Saloon & 0 SUV
Honda 0 Saloon: The Tesla Model S Rival
The 0 Saloon is Honda’s flagship sedan, blending Lamborghini Gallardo-esque styling with shocking practicality. Key specs:
- Design: Low-slung, wedge-shaped profile with a spacious interior defying its compact footprint .
- Performance: Dual-motor setups deliver up to 359kW, while an 80-90kWh battery offers 480km range (expandable to 600km post-launch) .
- Tech: Level 3 autonomous driving lets you binge Netflix in traffic jams (geofenced areas only) .
Honda 0 SUV: The Model Y Fighter
The 0 SUV, based on 2024’s Space-Hub concept, prioritizes versatility:
- Space: Boxy rear styling and a raised roofline create a “living room on wheels” .
- Handling: 3D gyro sensors (borrowed from Honda’s robotics) stabilize the ride on rough terrain .
- Powertrain: Entry models start at 180kW, with a North American launch slated for mid-2026 .
ASIMO OS: The Brain Behind the Brawn
Named after Honda’s iconic humanoid robot, the ASIMO OS is more than infotainment—it’s the soul of the 0 Series. Here’s why it matters:
- Personalization: Learns your habits, adjusts cabin lighting/music, and even suggests pit stops .
- Over-the-Air Updates: Continuously upgrades autonomy, battery management, and UX .
- Safety First: Honda’s unsupervised AI (partnering with Helm.ai) anticipates kangaroo crossings or fallen debris .
For tech-savvy Aussies, this means a car that evolves with you—not just a static purchase.
Level 3 Autonomy: Hands-Free Driving (Almost)
Honda made history in 2021 by launching the world’s first Level 3 autonomous car. The 0 Series takes it further:
- Eyes-Off Driving: Legally let the car handle highways while you Zoom or read .
- Expanding Capabilities: OTA updates will gradually enable autonomy in more scenarios .
- Safety Net: Combines 360° sensors with Honda SENSING Elite to avoid “unavoidable” accidents .
While Australia’s regulatory landscape lags behind Japan and the US, Honda’s tech ensures readiness when laws catch up.
Charging & Energy: Beyond the Battery
Honda’s vision extends beyond the garage:
- IONNA Network: 30,000 chargers across North America by 2030 (with NACS compatibility) .
- Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): Use your 0 Series to power your home during peak tariffs .
- Renewable Syncing: Smart Charge aligns charging with solar/wind availability .
Though Australia’s charging infrastructure is sparse, Honda’s global partnerships hint at future local collaborations.
Australia’s Timeline: Patience Required
Honda Australia confirmed plans for an EV launch “within three years” but stayed mum on the 0 Series . Here’s the likely roadmap:
- 2026: 0 SUV debuts in North America/Europe.
- 2027: Seven-seat SUV and compact models follow.
- 2028–2030: Potential Australian rollout, pending RHD production .
Until then, Honda Australia will focus on hybrids—but the 0 Series’ global buzz suggests it’s worth the wait.
Why the 0 Series Matters
- Tesla Challenger: With specs rivaling the Model S/Y, Honda targets tech elites tired of Tesla’s minimalist approach .
- Chinese EV Counter: Thin batteries and megacasting undercut BYD’s cost advantage .
- Sustainability Edge: Honda’s $15B Canadian EV hub and solid-state battery plans promise greener production .
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Honda
The 0 Series isn’t just Honda’s EV comeback—it’s a blueprint for the industry. By merging robotics, AI, and lightweight design, Honda aims to redefine what EVs can be. For Australians, the message is clear: while the wait may be long, the payoff—a car that’s as smart as it is efficient—could reset expectations for electric mobility.