Honda’s Electrifying Plans for 2024: New Hybrids, Fuel-Cell, and EV Models Revealed

HONDA (carbuzz.com)

American Honda has unveiled its ambitious roadmap for 2024, signaling a significant shift towards electrification. The lineup includes a hybrid, fuel-cell vehicle, and an all-electric car set to join the Honda family. The popular Civic range, slated for a comprehensive update in the 2025 model year, will sport refreshed styling, including a sportier front bumper, redesigned grille, and sleeker headlights. Notably, the Civic Hatchback and Sedan will introduce a hybrid variant, expanding customer choices.

Hybrid Expansion in Civic Lineup

The hybrid iteration of the Civic, set to launch in the summer, is poised to make up 40% of Civic sales, adding to the appeal of this best-selling passenger car. While specific specifications are yet to be disclosed, insights from the Euro-spec Civic hybrid, boasting a 2.0-liter engine paired with two electric motors generating 181 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, hint at the hybrid’s potential performance.

All-Electric Prologue and CR-V Fuel Cell Vehicle

Honda’s foray into the all-electric realm is marked by the Prologue, based on the GM Ultium platform, set to hit dealerships soon. Initially, the Prologue will be available in California and other ZEV states, with Florida and Texas joining in simultaneously. In a groundbreaking move, Honda introduces the CR-V Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCEV), combining fuel cell technology and a plug-in feature in one vehicle. The CR-V FCEV, built at Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, showcases Honda’s commitment to innovation.

Odyssey Minivan Upgrades and Sales Goals

Honda plans to revitalize the Odyssey minivan with styling and technology updates, keeping it competitive in the market. Despite being around since 2018, the Odyssey remains a top contender in the minivan segment. While expectations for a new model persist, Honda’s focus on enhancements aligns with its strategy to maintain the Odyssey’s competitiveness. With sales totaling 1,162,531 in 2023, including Acura, Honda aims to achieve 1.3 million units sold independently in 2024, driven by the introduction of three zero-emission vehicles, marking a significant step toward its 100% zero-emissions vehicle sales target by 2040 and the broader goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.