Honda Shifts Focus to HEV Models, Cuts Back on Investment to EVs

Honda is shifting their gears towards carbon neutrality and zero accidents by 2050.

- By Vincent Villa

As the demand for EVs has waned, they are now pulling back on targets and investments while setting their sights on HEVs instead as an area of focus.

Previously, Honda said they want 30% of their total sales to be EVs by 2030. They are now positioning their HEVs front and center with next-generation models to be introduced by 2027 onwards. They are forecasting a total sales number of 3.6 million units by then, with HEVs comprising 2.2 million units or 61%.

In line with this shift, Honda is eyeing to improve their e:HEV hybrid system that's currently in the CR-V, HR-V, and Civic here in the Philippines. They plan on combining it with a next-generation platform that has further weight reduction and improved driving stability, while also creating a new All-Wheel Drive vehicle with "highly precise and responsive motor control." They are aiming to enhance the fuel economy of the next-generation e:HEV models by 10% and upgrade its driving experience to one that only Honda is known for.