You might have heard whispers about the Honda 0 Series. You certainly won’t have seen it at a Honda dealer yet, because it isn’t out—and isn’t projected to be out for a while (Honda says 2026). Still, the marketing campaign has been strong, and images of these futuristic vehicles are all over the internet. There’s no denying that they look a little bit like the Cybertruck (oh yes, I went there). And while the Honda 0 Series might resemble the other popular EV that’s been dealing with some recalls lately, it does not look like anything that’s previously been produced by Honda. And that’s intentional because the 0 Series is meant to signal new beginnings. Here’s what we know about it and what we think we know based on Honda’s videos.
Why the 0?
I’ll quickly touch on the significance of the “0” in this series. Honda is focusing on a back-to-basics approach to its EVs. Yes, Honda already has an EV in its Prologue, but the 0 Series is its form of wiping the slate clean and creating an entirely new foundation for its EVs moving forward. So, it might be safe to assume that many of the core functions we find in these first two models can be expected in future Honda EVs.
Even their appearance is a nod to the nature of prototypes. With their unique blend of soft curves and sharp angles and all-glass front panels that create a spaceship-esque cockpit, the 0 Series vehicles almost look like what dystopian movie makers in the 1920s envisioned vehicles of the 2020s to look like. The look is self-aware in a cheeky way, as the vehicles almost look like unfinished molds of vehicles before the finishing touches have been applied. Think of a lump of clay (very shiny, pretty clay) before it’s been sculpted. Overall, Honda has been discussing the desire to return to a focus on a driver-centric experience, where drivers feel like the vehicle fuses with them, predicting their moves. Given Honda’s strong racing heritage, this makes sense.
“Thin, Light, Wise”
Those are the core principles behind the Honda 0 Series, which is supposed to represent a starting-from-the-ground-up approach to the brand’s EVs. So, how does that show up in these models? Well, Honda reports that the vehicles feature thin EV platforms that allow for a lower floor height, as well as low roofs. Together, you get an overall low-to-the-ground build that Honda refers to as “thin,” and that improves aerodynamics.
The “light” element refers to Honda’s desire to defy the typical expectations of the modern public regarding electric vehicles. This includes increasing the vehicles’ sportiness, performance, and efficiency. Surpassing these expectations is another reason why the manufacturer felt the need to start back at “0” to truly push their electric vehicles further than ever before.
As for the “wise” part, Honda promises some truly impressive advanced intelligent technologies in the 0 Series. I watched the two official videos for the two 0 Series models—the Saloon sedan and the 0 SUV—and if what those indicated is true, these will be some pretty exciting vehicles. The SUV video was silent and, to be honest, told me nothing. I think Honda favored cinematic prowess over providing any real information on that one. The Saloon video, however, was particularly intriguing because it suggests that the 0 Series vehicles will have highly advanced AI systems that essentially become your buddy. In the video, the system appears to recognize the driver’s moods and plays the correct music for each one.
The AI also seems to recognize regular passengers, remembering the names of the driver’s friends and even greeting them. That, combined with the interesting graphics on the 0 Series site, shows what looks like face-scanning technology, and it seems that Honda is suggesting that the 0 Series AI can truly get to know you. I’m not sure how I feel yet about my vehicle potentially asking me why I’m sad or how my day went. There have certainly been enough movies scaring me away from robots that get into the inner workings of my mind, but… let’s hope for the best.
The 0 Series Models Literally Drive Differently
Honda also makes a big deal about the mechanics of their 0 Series models being unlike anything they’ve made before. But that’s not to say they’re unlike anything that’s been made by other brands. For example, the steer-by-wire system is something Honda is talking a lot about. Steer-by-wire systems use electrical signals and actuators to let the steering wheel and wheels communicate, replacing the traditional mechanical connections that do this job. That being said, the Cybertruck also uses this technology, as do the GMC Hummer EV and the Lexus RZ. Nonetheless, the system has some interesting perks. Steer-by-wire systems are known for increased accuracy and better fuel economy (in this case, electric range). Plus, they have fewer components than regular steering systems, which contributes to the 0 Series models’ lightweight builds.
The Motion Management Systems are something else that Honda is shining a light on in these vehicles. Put simply, these systems optimize communication between the brakes, steering, powertrain, and suspension, allowing for better coordination between all parts. These systems offer plenty of benefits, like a better handling experience and fuel economy. However, for the 0 Series, what makes them especially important is their value when it comes to advanced driver assistance features. Honda is talking a lot about the automated driving experience consumers can have in the 0 Series vehicles, hinting at hands-free capabilities. A Motion Management System is extra important when nobody is physically commanding the vehicle.
So what about charging? Honda is claiming that the 0 Series models will be able to go from 15 percent to 80 percent on fast chargers in roughly 10 to 15 minutes, too. That’s a 50 percent reduction from today’s fast chargers, which usually need 20 to 30 minutes to get you that kind of charge. So Honda appears to be eradicating one of the top nuisances of EV drivers, which is the need to stand around a charging station for half an hour.
The Honda 0 Series Ushers Us Into the Future…But It’s Not Alone
So, how exciting is the announcement of the Honda 0 Series? I’ll say that the potential for an advanced AI system that has full conversations with a driver is new and different. It’s like a smart house but…a car. I haven’t found that in other vehicles (at least not those that exist outside of the silver screen). As for the mechanics, the Honda 0 Series relies on some features found in competing EVs, like the steer-by-wire and Motion Management systems. So they can’t claim ingenuity for those.
But, hey, Honda deserves to join the ranks of brands making pointy, boxy, silver EVs as much as any other manufacturer. And since the most popular one right now (no need to name it) is facing so many struggles in the quality control department, maybe it’s good that another brand steps in and makes an alternative. At least Honda has a long-standing reputation for quality and has won plenty of safety awards. I’d rather have a brand like that toying with new designs than some other questionable manufacturer. And I’ll leave it at that.
