We Drive Honda’s Bold New 0 Series

TOCHIGI, JAPAN – Honda’s 0 Series battery-electric vehicle concepts unveiled at CES 2024 represent a bold new vision and direction for the Japanese automaker, with 0 signifying what it calls a fresh start that reflects a “Thin, Light, and Wise” vehicle design and production philosophy.

While Honda teased a group of global media with a version of its sleek 0 Series Saloon concept on display at the automaker’s R&D facility here, WardsAuto did get to test drive prototypes of the new BEV platform, albeit camouflaged by the bodies of the current Honda Accord and CR-V, on a closed test track (pictured, below).

Underneath the body of the CR-V we drove are two key components of the 0 Series platform that’s scheduled to debut as a version of the Saloon concept: a new, super-thin battery pack and a condensed e-axle that combines an inverter and electric motor. Honda has developed two new production technologies – megacasting to replace multiple parts with a single large component and 3D friction stir welding to join metal using the friction-induced heat – that allows producing an aluminum battery case that Honda says is 6% thinner than those of competitors. This allows for the Saloon concept’s low roof, which is 55.1 ins. (1,400 mm) high and 2 ins. (51 mm) lower than the current Accord’s, while increasing cabin space.

O Series megacasting follows Tesla's lead.

0 Series Masquerading as a Common Crossover

The 0 Series masquerading as Honda’s top-selling crossover isn’t likely anywhere close to what the aerodynamic Saloon sports coupe will drive like when it arrives with a Honda nameplate in 2026, but it’s way faster than any CR-V we’ve driven. Specs for the prototype aren’t provided, but at the Tochigi event Honda exhibits 214- and 67-hp versions of the e-axle that will be available in rear- and all-wheel-drive configurations. The vehicle we test is all-wheel drive and our quick drive consists of three hot laps around a roughly 1-km (0.62-mile) course with several sharp turns and one long straightaway. 

Acceleration in the straightaway is smooth and linear if not seat-pinning like some high-performance BEVs. The 0 Series prototype feels lighter on its feet than comparably sized BEV crossovers and much more agile than the production CR-V. We experience very little body roll through some of the track’s turns typical of the Honda crossover in purely gas-powered or its heavier hybrid form. Pushing the prototype through the track’s one tight chicane doesn’t cause the kind of understeer we expect even with a slight screech from the tires. The prototype doesn’t have the steer-by-wire system slated for the production 0 Series Saloon, but steering feel was poised and steady.

Low Center of Gravity for Sporty Driving Dynamics

Honda notes that the low-slung placement of the 0 Series’ battery and e-axle and resultant low center of gravity will yield sporty driving dynamics for 0 Series vehicles, while an aluminum body will shave off about 220 lbs. (99 kg) compared to previous Honda BEVs. A crossmember between the front wheels has also been eliminated for a lower hood and Honda notes that flex in the body structure will adjust the load on the tires while cornering.

Based on a few laps, we can’t wait to drive the 0 Series Saloon – whether on the road or track.