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Honda has unveiled a new roadmap detailing its investment and production plans, emphasizing a strong commitment to electrification. The automaker has reaffirmed its goal of achieving 100 percent sales of electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) by 2040. Central to this strategy is a significant focus on battery technology, with Honda planning to invest over $60 billion in electrification by 2030.
Honda aims to make EVs more affordable and efficient. The company plans to cut battery costs by more than 20 percent from current levels and reduce overall production costs by 35 percent. This ambitious plan reflects Honda’s determination to overcome the challenges of selling electric vehicles, especially in markets like the United States where long commutes and high housing costs present unique obstacles.
Commitment to Battery Technology
Despite slowing market growth in certain areas, Honda remains steadfast in its commitment to electric vehicles. The automaker’s strategy revolves around advancing battery technology and production capabilities. On Thursday, Honda announced its intention to invest tens of billions of dollars into its EV strategy through 2030.
A significant portion of this investment, 60 percent, will go toward developing and producing new electric vehicles and motorcycles. Approximately 20 percent of the funds will be allocated to capital expenditures in crucial markets such as the United States, Canada, and Japan. The remaining 20 percent, around $12 billion, will be invested in research and development of “software-defined mobility,” enhancing the integration of advanced software in vehicle systems.
Targets for 2030
Honda’s goal is for EVs and FCEVs to constitute 40 percent of its global sales by 2030. The recently introduced Prologue electric crossover is the first step toward this target, with Honda aiming to produce two million EVs by the same year. Following previous unsuccessful attempts with the Clarity sedan and Fit EV, the 2024 Prologue represents Honda’s renewed effort to penetrate the passenger EV market in the United States.
In addition to the Prologue, a new line of EVs, dubbed the 0-series, is set to launch in 2026, further expanding Honda’s electric vehicle portfolio in North America. The first model in the 0-series will be based on the Honda Saloon, which was previewed at CES earlier this year, and will adhere to Honda’s “Thin, Light, and Wise” development philosophy.
Although specific details about the production version of the Saloon-based vehicle are limited, Honda has indicated that it will feature rapid charging capabilities, allowing the battery to charge from 15 to 80 percent in under 15 minutes. The production vehicle will closely resemble the Saloon preview and will be built on a new platform designed specifically for mid-to-large-size EVs. This platform has been developed using a portion of the aforementioned development funds.
Conclusion
Honda’s roadmap outlines a bold and comprehensive strategy for electrification. By investing heavily in battery technology and production, the automaker is positioning itself to meet its ambitious targets for 2040 and 2030. Despite the challenges in the EV market, particularly in regions with unique transportation needs, Honda’s plan to reduce costs and enhance vehicle performance underscores its commitment to leading the transition to a fully electric future.
