Honda Unveils 2026 Global Strategy: Next-Gen Hybrids from 2027, 15 Models Worldwide by 2029

On May 14, 2024, Honda announced its global business strategy for fiscal year 2026, identifying the next three years as a critical period for restructuring its automobile business. The company plans to enhance product competitiveness by optimizing its cost structure, improving R&D efficiency, and concentrating resources on key markets, with a target of achieving operating profit exceeding JPY 1.4 trillion in the fiscal year ending March 2029. Starting in 2027, Honda will launch next-generation hybrid models based on an all-new hybrid system and platform, initially focusing on North America and rolling out a total of 15 such models globally by 2029. In North America, Honda plans to introduce large hybrid vehicles in the D-segment or above in 2029. In Japan, Honda will expand its electrified vehicle lineup with a focus on kei cars, launching the N-BOX EV in 2028. Beginning the same year, it will successively introduce models equipped with its next-generation hybrid system and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), starting with the new VEZEL. In India, Honda will develop a strategic mid-size model under four meters in length tailored to local market needs, with launches expected to begin in 2028. In China, Honda will adopt locally standardized components and collaborate with domestic partners to launch new energy vehicles, leveraging local resources to enhance both product appeal and cost competitiveness. Additionally, Honda will introduce a competitive battery-electric vehicle (BEV) platform, accelerate development of all-solid-state batteries, and implement a domain-controlled electronic/electrical (E/E) architecture along with a unified software platform to flexibly meet diverse market and customer requirements.