Honda unveiled its all-electric 0 SUV with Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 champion, behind the wheel at the Red Bull Showrun in Tokyo ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.
Yuki Tsunoda, Verstappen’s newly-appointed teammate, joined the Dutchman in the passenger seat during the demonstration.
The Honda 0 SUV will launch as the first vehicle in the manufacturer’s new ‘0’ EV lineup, scheduled to hit markets in early 2026.
Honda says its 0 range will feature a “Thin, Light, and Wise” design philosophy focused on efficiency, technology, and driver engagement. The vehicles will incorporate compact motors, slimmer battery packs, active aerodynamics, and both drive and brake-by-wire systems.
A sedan version will join the SUV lineup in late 2025. Both models will be manufactured at Honda’s EV production facility in Ohio and will run on the company’s ASIMO operating system.
The 0 lineup is projected to expand to seven models by 2030.
Initial vehicles will be built on a dedicated 400V electric platform with battery capacities ranging from 80-90kWh – similar to offerings from Korean and German competitors. The company plans to introduce 800V architecture and larger battery options in future models.
This represents Honda’s renewed commitment to electrification following its earlier EV attempts – the compact Honda e and the e:NY1 crossover – which received mixed market reception.
Japanese automakers are increasingly embracing full electrification. Toyota recently pivoted toward a comprehensive EV strategy with its C-HR+ and FT Me concepts, with electric versions of its RAV4 and Hilux reportedly in development.
Mazda has also committed to electrification, announcing plans for EVs to comprise up to 40% of its lineup by 2030 and revealing its upcoming 6e sedan. Despite these ambitions, Mazda recently discontinued its MX-30, the only all-electric vehicle in its current portfolio.
