NAIAS 2017: Honda plans to launch all-new hybrid vehicle in 2018

Honda recently announced plans of adding an all-new dedicated hybrid vehicle during this year’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The new hybrid is part of the Honda Electrification Initiative which intends to expand the Japanese automaker’s electric vehicle lineup and reduce CO2 emissions.

According to Honda, the all-new dedicated hybrid vehicle will be built in and launched in America in 2018. Not much technical details have been disclosed aside from it will be powered by the innovative 2-motor Earth Dreams hybrid engine found in the Accord Hybrid. 

Half of the all-new models Honda will launch in the United States in the coming two years will be electrified vehicles," said President and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd Mr. Takahiro Hachigo.

On the other hand, Honda also plans of using the same hybrid powerplant in more of their passenger cars and light truck lineup in the future. These will help Honda (fingers crossed) achieve their global target of getting 2/3 of sales from electrified vehicles by 2030. Additionally, the Japanese brand aims to halve their C02 emissions since 2000 by 2050.

As of this writing, Honda has 2 models locally with hybrid engines – the Legend luxury sedan that was launched in 2015 and the CR-Z coupe that got updated last year. With the current trend and their big plans, will we be seeing more hybrid or even electric vehicles in the Philippines soon?