Honda introduced the first two concepts in its new “0 Series” (be cool, BMW!) series of all-electric vehicles scheduled to arrive in the U.S. in 2026, helping to transform CES into the automotive kickoff event of the 2024 season. These new cars, which are based on the ideas of “Thin, Light, and Wise,” will provide the foundation for Honda’s electric future.
The Space-Hub and the Saloon are the names of Honda’s two CES concept cars. As the flagship vehicle in its new EV lineup, the former will launch as the 0 Series’ inaugural model, according to Honda. Honda’s M//M (man maximum/machine minimum) concept guided the development of the platform on which it is based. That is to say, it is roomy, broad, and low. Importantly, it is incapable of driving by itself.
That’s correct: the Saloon is designed to be a driver-oriented vehicle, with new technology designed to make the experience more interesting rather than less, despite Honda’s promises of enhancements in semi-automated safety systems and driver safety tech. It also appears insane.
According to Honda’s statement, “the Saloon debuts advancements of new steer-by-wire and motion control management systems in addition to the new exterior and interior design.” The Saloon’s posture control system, which makes use of the company’s decades-long experience in robotics, will help drivers experience the “pleasure of driving” in an array of driving scenarios in the EV era.”
The second idea is completely the opposite, and it’s called the Space-Hub. Whatever that means, that’s what Honda means when they say it’s a “flexible space that immediately accommodates a variety of passengers and becomes a “hub” that connects people to each other and the outside world.” It resembles a Starfleet shuttlecraft that was thrown back in time and ended up in Honda Research and Development. However, that’s not unlike what we used to say about the Dodge Caravan.
Even less details are available on this one. As Honda isn’t actively pushing to produce its own autonomous vehicles, we predict this will end up looking more like a regular… well, whatever it is. The lounge-style rear passenger section has been a popular element in concepts with autonomous pretensions.
A new emblem will be worn by the 0 Series as well. Honda has altered the appearance of their iconic “H,” which is meant to represent welcoming new opportunities with open arms.
Undoubtedly, the talk today covered wide topics, but we all know that Honda’s “concept” cars have a curious habit of turning out to be poorly disguised production cars. We’ll overlook them for not tying themselves down to any details, given the two years till launch and the complexity of developing BEV technologies. It’s not Ultium, that much is clear. Stay tuned for additional information.