Honda has officially unveiled its highly anticipated battery-electric Honda Zero prototypes at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas. The two new EVs, the Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV, are set to go into production in 2026 and will be the first vehicles to feature the automaker's new in-house developed Asimo operating system.

The Honda 0 SUV, based on the Space-Hub concept, boasts a unique rear cargo opening with two fold-down tables on either side, while the Honda 0 Saloon, inspired by the Saloon concept, features a swooping design with retro-style headlights reminiscent of Lamborghini Countach designs from the 1980s. Both vehicles have an element of nostalgia in their design, with the Saloon's yoke-style steering wheel rotating to allow for easy entry and exit.

While the exterior designs may evoke a sense of nostalgia, the interiors are decidedly modern, with a dash-sized screen stretching from pillar to pillar, similar to the forthcoming Afeela EV from Honda's joint venture with Sony. The vehicles will also feature Level 3 automated driving, allowing drivers to take their hands, feet, and attention off the road ahead in certain conditions.

The Asimo operating system, named after Honda's iconic humanoid robot, is designed to provide "ultra-personal optimization" of the digital experience, as well as automated driving capabilities. Honda plans to integrate the management of its electronic control units (ECUs) for better control of functions like suspension, braking, and handling. The system will also "learn" from and adapt to each user, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Honda has partnered with Japanese semiconductor manufacturer Renesas to create a system-on-a-chip, reducing the number of ECUs and handling more processing demand. This move is part of a larger trend of automakers developing bespoke ECUs, chips, and other components to handle the increasing demands of software-defined vehicles, especially in light of AI adoption and autonomous driving systems.

The Honda Zero vehicles will be equipped with Level 3 automated driving, which will allow occupants to watch videos or remotely join meetings in the car when the system is engaged. The company plans to offer this technology at an "affordable" price, with the option for over-the-air updates to expand the range of conditions in which it can be used.

Honda's decision to develop its own operating system and partner with Renesas marks a significant shift in the industry, as automakers move away from off-the-shelf solutions and towards bespoke software and hardware solutions. The Honda Zero prototypes, with their innovative designs and cutting-edge technology, are a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and its vision for the future of mobility.