Honda is accelerating its electric vehicle (EV) efforts by introducing a new division focusing on battery technology. The Japanese automaker plans to create affordable small electric cars by developing solid-state batteries that would reduce battery costs. In an interview with Bloomberg news agency, Honda Motor CEO Toshihiro Mibe shared his insights on how solid-state batteries could make EVs more affordable.
The cost of manufacturing solid-state batteries is high, and Honda must ensure that the market is ready before production begins. Honda is currently driving solid-state batteries in its own program and collaborating with LG Energy Solution to develop the technology further. The automaker hopes that solid-state batteries will offer better safety and performance and more compact, cheaper battery packs.
Honda's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 includes introducing 30 new EVs worldwide by 2030 with a production volume of two million units. To achieve this, the company plans to launch larger EVs with existing battery technology before moving onto smaller passenger cars based on its own electric car platform from 2026.
In collaboration with General Motors, Honda plans to release a series of affordable full-electric vehicles based on a common platform in 2027. Additionally, Honda is currently the only electric car manufacturer offering the small car Honda e, but it plans to release three new EVs in Europe, including a fully electric SUV in the B segment, the Honda e:Ny1 electric SUV, and a full hybrid SUV in the C segment.
In late 2022, Honda unveiled a glimpse of its new Honda Prologue electric SUV, designed in partnership with General Motors. The model will debut in North America and may also hit the streets in Europe.
According to Mibe, the electric vehicle business depends heavily on battery costs. Developing solid-state batteries would enable Honda to control these costs and provide affordable EVs to consumers. However, finding the right time to invest in the technology is challenging, and it could be several years before solid-state batteries are ready for mass production.
Honda's push for solid-state batteries is a significant step towards affordable and sustainable electric mobility. The company's efforts to reduce battery costs and improve performance will benefit consumers and the environment alike. As Honda accelerates its electrification business, we expect to see more innovative technologies that drive us toward a more sustainable future.
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