Honda 0 Saloon and 0 SUV make CES 2025 debut

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Both models confirmed for production in 2026 in Ohio

At the CES 2025, Honda showcased further refined versions of the concepts it showcased at the last year’s CES. This time around, these models are classified as prototypes and not concepts, which means, the company appears to be on-track to get these models into your nearest dealership by sometime in 2026. For now, these prototypes are named 0 Saloon and 0 SUV, but it remains to be seen what the final production names will be.

A couple of new announcements this time. The software/operating system (OS) for these vehicles is branded ASIMO OS, and, Honda has partnered with Renesas Electronics Corporation to develop high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) for these models. I guess Honda wants to go “desi” with the Zero models by not signing up with NVIDIA or Qualcomm.

But anyway, the so-called “Saloon”, which looked like Diablo’s cousin from a parallel universe or something, now looks like a mix of two different things. Also, the headlight design is different this time; the lights have a flap that slides back. The other prototype (originally named Space-Hub concept) which looked more like a minivan, now has a somewhat traditional SUV shape (close enough). Maybe it’s just me, but both these models lack the elegance the Honda e hatchback had.

Technical details have been reserved for another date, but Honda said that the 0 models will have Level 3 automated driving capability. Among other things, the ASIMO OS will take care of the ADAS and in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) system as well. The Honda AI technology will assist the automated driving tech and ADAS.

Honda is aiming to be the world’s first automaker to enable eyes-off driving in all situations. Anyway, the original Saloon concept had gullwing doors, but the prototype has gone for traditional ones. What’s not traditional, is the lack of traditional ORVMs, but how else do you cram more displays on the dashboard? And, since the rear visibility is almost non-existent, the IRVM also needs to be fed by a camera.

I’m not sure if this is how the people felt back when the automotive industry was transitioning from steam-powered to fossil-fuel-powered, but I’m not liking the direction the automotive industry is taking now.