Honda Next Generation Hybrid Sedan Concept Leads Strategy for Fifteen New Models with Engineering Upgrades and Production Growth in North America
Honda pulled the wraps off a next generation hybrid sedan concept during its business briefing in Japan today. It will form the basis of 15 new hybrid models planned to hit dealerships worldwide by 2030, North America will be the main consumer of the models as the Japanese manufacturer abandons development of traditional gasoline only models.
According to Honda Motor's global CEO Toshihiro Mibe the company will refocus and shift developmental and manufacturing resources in order to quicken their deployment to market. Mibe claims that Honda will capitalize on the company's existing strengths in hybrids and be well ahead of schedule to meet emissions regulations. The redirection of money will mean more high volume, appealing electric product sooner.
Honda will introduce a brand new hybrid system and platform from 2027. This two motor, next generation system boasts a greater efficient operating range for the engine and has higher driving efficiency for the hybrid unit. Honda expects efficiency gains of over ten percent with a 30% drop in system cost. A new electric AWD unit offering rapid motor control will assist in precise handling.
Advanced driver assistance features will see a significant upgrade from 2028. These future ADAS units will offer control over acceleration and steering for a whole route based on navigation data, all on both expressways and local streets creating a stress free mobility experience.
Honda seeks to couple the automation technology with its long standing focus on the joys of driving.
Updates to production include increased hybrid capacity at the Marysville and East Liberty plants in Ohio. Eventually Honda wants every North American factory to have hybrid production capabilities reducing operational costs and shortening supply chains. Later plans for a large D segment hybrid vehicle in 2029 are also planned catering for company cars and large families.
