Along with groundbreaking enhancements to its initial 2-motor hybrid system, the Honda e:HEV, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled a strategic plan for its HEV company. The announcement is consistent with Honda’s ambitious goals to become carbon neutral by 2050 and transition to fully battery-electric and fuel cell vehicles by 2040.
The next-generation e:HEV system offers improved efficiency, performance, and driving enjoyment with seamless transitions between EV Drive Mode, Hybrid Drive Mode, and Engine Drive Mode. With upgraded engines, drive units, and control technology for small and mid-size systems, Honda aims to improve fuel efficiency by over 10% as compared to first-generation hybrid vehicles.
Significant improvements include the addition of an electric all-wheel drive (E-AWD) unit for improved acceleration and stability and a new Honda S+ Shift feature that enhances driving dynamics without compromising environmental performance. Apart from enhancing driving stability, the new mid-size platform also achieves cost-effective production, 10% vehicle weight reduction, and over 60% model commonality.
In order to make its hybrid-electric models more affordable, Honda intends to reduce their price by 50% by 2027 compared to 2018. In order to ensure profitability and hasten the shift to sustainable mobility, the business plans to sell 1.3 million hybrid cars globally by 2030.
The launch of the innovations in the brand-new Honda Prelude, scheduled for delivery in 2025, will mark a new chapter in Honda’s commitment to offering “the joy of mobility” and environmental stewardship.
