Honda has just announced a new product strategy with a focus on hybrid technology, marking a major shift after the company had to cancel a series of costly electric vehicle projects.
Alongside this, the Japanese automaker unveiled two concept models considered previews of the next generation of the Accord and Acura RDX, and committed to launching 15 hybrid models globally before 2029.
Two prototypes, named the Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype and the Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype, are expected to be commercialized within the next two years. Although Honda has not yet confirmed the official names or segments, the designs of the two models have already revealed quite clearly the product direction.
The sedan boasts a five-door fastback design, sharp lines, slim LED headlights, and several black plastic trim details. The boxy front end is reminiscent of the Civic prototype that Honda previously showcased.
Meanwhile, the Acura-branded SUV, with its more muscular design featuring a bold front bumper, sculpted body, and V-shaped taillights, is almost certainly the successor to the discontinued Acura RDX.
Both models utilize a next-generation hybrid platform expected to launch in 2027. Honda says the new architecture will help reduce production costs by approximately 30% and improve fuel efficiency by more than 10% compared to 2023 models.
The new electronic all-wheel drive system and enhanced sporty handling are also noteworthy highlights. The next-generation ADAS driver assistance technology package is expected to appear from 2028.
Honda is currently experiencing a difficult financial period, having recorded its first annual net loss since 1957, amounting to 423.9 billion yen (approximately $2.68 billion).
The main reason stems from restructuring costs and the cancellation of electric vehicle projects worth approximately 1.57 trillion yen (9.94 billion USD). Despite this, the Japanese automaker still aims for a strong recovery with record operating profits exceeding 1.4 trillion yen in the fiscal year ending March 2029.
The investment plan until 2029 also shows that Honda is prioritizing hybrid and internal combustion engine vehicles over purely electric vehicles. Of the total budget of 6.2 trillion yen (39.25 billion USD), 4.4 trillion yen is allocated to gasoline and hybrid vehicles, 1 trillion yen to software, while investment in purely electric EVs is only 0.8 trillion yen.
Honda stated that its electric vehicle plans beyond 2030 will be further considered, and the company is open to collaborating with other partners instead of developing its own new electric vehicle platform.
Source: https://tienphong.vn/honda-he-lo-bo-doi-xe-hybrid-the-he-moi-post1843408.tpo
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