Honda has disclosed the first set of details about its next-generation hybrid platforms. These platforms will underpin new Honda models in global markets – including India – from 2027 onward, and will contribute to the Japanese carmaker’s aim to achieve full carbon neutrality and zero traffic fatalities worldwide by 2050.
- Next-gen Honda midsize hybrid platform is 90kg lighter and more rigid
- Honda integrating numerous technologies to make next-gen hybrids more fun to drive
- Larger next-gen hybrid platform gets new V6 engine with more efficient, lower-cost components
Honda next-gen midsize hybrid platform details
We’ve previously reported on Honda developing a modular, hybrid-ready platform codenamed PF2 for small- and medium-sized cars, including some destined for the Indian market. The new midsize hybrid platform Honda recently unveiled is most likely the PF2.
90kg lighter than current hybrid platform
Improvements to the new architecture are headlined by a 90kg weight reduction over Honda’s existing hybrid platform, despite higher levels of body rigidity. A lower weight is not only beneficial for fuel efficiency, but also the “joy of driving” that Honda wants to retain for models based on the next-gen midsize hybrid platform.
Emphasis on fun-to-drive nature.
To further enhance the driving experience, Honda will incorporate technologies like a Motion Management System for robotics-based posture control, Agile Handling Assist for precise driving dynamics, and a body rigidity management system that adjusts load distribution across tyres for better cornering stability.
Extensive parts sharing across different models
Modularity is a focus here too, with the midsize hybrid platform enabling over 60 percent of parts to be shared across models to “significantly” improve development and production efficiency.
Among the 10 new Honda models coming to India by 2030, expect many of them to be underpinned by the next-gen midsize hybrid platform.
Honda next-gen large size hybrid platform details
Primarily developed for North America; features new V6 engine
Honda is developing this hybrid platform primarily for the US market, where demand for large hybrid models is strong. Among the notable features of Honda’s next-gen large-size hybrid platform is a brand-new, more frugal V6 engine that meets stricter emission norms, a new energy management control system, and new batteries and motors that cost less and are more efficient.
With these upgrades, Honda is targeting a fuel efficiency bump of 30 percent, and 10 percent quicker acceleration for its next-gen large hybrid cars compared to equivalent ICE models.
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