Honda 0 α EV prototype debuts at Japan Mobility Show 2025, company claims India launch in 2027

Honda Motor Company Director, President and Representative Toshihiro Mibe with the Honda 0 α.

Honda Motor Company has unveiled the prototype of the Honda 0 α (Alpha) SUV, the newest addition to its Honda 0 Series, at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 in Tokyo. Positioned as a next-generation electric vehicle (EV), the 0 α serves as a 'gateway model' within the lineup and is expected to go on sale globally, including in India, from 2027.

The 0 α follows the Honda 0 saloon and Honda 0 SUV, both revealed earlier at CES 2025. Honda said the model is designed to "blend beautifully with both urban and natural environments".

The prototype showcases Honda's new development approach, described as 'Thin, Light, and Wise', a design and engineering philosophy focused on achieving efficiency, intelligent packaging, and reduced weight. According to Honda, the electric SUV combines a low-slung stance with ample ground clearance, balancing aerodynamics and practicality while ensuring a spacious cabin.

Visually, the 0 α continues the futuristic design direction seen in other Honda 0 models. The front integrates multiple traditionally separate elements, including the headlights, charging lid, and illuminated Honda emblem, into a single 'screen area'. The rear, meanwhile, features a U-shaped lighting signature that merges tail lamps, turn indicators, and reverse lights into one cohesive unit. These design touches aim to convey a sense of visual unity and technical refinement.

The 0 α prototype's proportions emphasise width and stability, underscoring its SUV character. The interior, yet to be fully detailed, is expected to reflect the minimalist and user-friendly aesthetic central to the Honda 0 philosophy.

Globally, the Honda 0 Series represents the company's strategic shift toward purpose-built EVs based on a dedicated architecture, targeting major markets such as Japan, North America and Europe. The series is expected to underpin multiple models in varying body styles over the coming years.

When launched in India in 2027, the Honda 0 α will compete with a growing set of mid-size electric SUVs like the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, Mahindra BE 6, Tata Curvv.ev, MG ZS EV and Hyundai Creta Electric.

Honda currently offers only three models -- Amaze sedan, City sedan and Elevate SUV -- in India. It will launch the Elevate hybrid in the second half of 2026.

The company has seen its domestic volume fall from 91,418 units in FY23 to 86,584 units in FY24 to 65,925 units in FY25, according to data from the industry body Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). The decline in volume has resulted in a decrease in market share, from 2.35% in FY23 to 2.05% in FY24, and further to 1.53% in FY25.