Honda is determined to respond to the decline in demand for electric vehicles with a strategic realignment. In this way, the Japanese brand plans to launch at least 13 new hybrid models between 2027 and 2030, likely including successors to the Civic and Jazz.
These new and renewed models will be equipped with what the company claims is the most efficient combustion engine in the world and will serve to facilitate the transition to the widespread commercialization of 100% electric vehicles.
Honda’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, attributes the new strategy to the growing interest in hybrid vehicles, while demand for electric vehicles is slowing down.
Mibe attributes the delay in market adjustment, among other factors, to the relaxation of CO2 targets and lack of support for the acquisition of electric vehicles in the U.S., which were originally considered the foundation for the broad introduction of fully electric vehicles.
The new hybrid engines will be available in 1.5 and 2.0-liter versions, with an associated battery. The smaller version, in particular, is expected to offer a torque range 40% greater, which should increase both efficiency and performance.
Honda also promises the best thermal efficiency among all internal combustion engines currently available. A more compact electric motor is expected to further reduce weight and improve space utilization. In this way, Honda hopes that this set of measures will allow for a 10% reduction in fuel consumption.
Alongside the new engines, Honda is working on a new platform designed to enhance the driving experience, comfort, and safety. For the mid-size models, the new platform will be 90 kilograms lighter than the current platform. Additionally, the bodies of the new vehicles will weigh about 10% less, and around 60% of the parts used in the new models will be identical, which should reduce production costs.
Despite the investment in new hybrid models, Honda remains committed to the development of electric vehicles. “Our goal is to make 100% electric vehicles an essential part of our business by 2030”, said CEO Toshihiro Mibe, as quoted by “Autocar.”
