Honda has made a grand entrance at this year’s CES in Las Vegas with not one, but two futuristic concept cars that could have been plucked straight from a sci-fi movie. Named the Saloon and Space-Hub, these concepts serve as a preview of Honda’s upcoming 0 Series of electric cars. The most striking of the two models is undoubtedly the Saloon, featuring a design inspired by 1970s wedge-shaped concepts, evoking memories of iconic models from that era, including the famed Aston Martin Bulldog.
What’s even more intriguing is that Honda
has confirmed that the Saloon will serve as the inspiration for the inaugural
production model of the 0 Series, slated to hit the market in 2026. It will
initially launch in North America, followed by Japan, Asia, Europe, Africa, the
Middle East, and South America.
Beyond its eye-catching design and
gull-wing doors, which obviously aren’t expected to be part of the final
product, Honda has confirmed that it rests atop a new dedicated EV platform.
The Saloon’s low and wide exterior is said to conceal a roomy interior enhanced
with a human-machine interface (HMI) instrument panel, featuring sustainable
materials throughout. The Saloon also introduces advancements in steer-by-wire
and motion control management systems, which are likely to be incorporated into
the production version.
Turning our attention to the Space-Hub
concept, although there are no production plans, this minivan-like study offers
a glimpse into what Honda’s 0 Series might bring to consumers. This futuristic
electric model boasts an expansive glass roof extending over the passengers,
treating them with striking views of the surroundings. Behind the driver, a
secluded passenger compartment features opposing seat benches, fostering
flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate various passengers and
create a “hub” connecting people to each other and the outside world.
The Space-Hub also boasts an
unconventional rear-end design characterized by a rectangular lighting strip
and an absence of a windshield. Honda did not provide any further details on
the study.