Honda Motor Co. has set the stage for a thrilling revelation of new mobility marvels at the Japan Mobility Show 2023. This spectacular event, formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show, granted exclusive access to journalists on October 25-26, 2023, and will delight the public from October 27 to November 5, 2023, at Tokyo Big Sight, Tokyo, Japan. Honda’s exhibition theme, “Honda Dream Loop,” invites visitors into a glimpse of Honda’s future mobility products and services, embodying the essence of their dreams.
Honda’s Visionary Mission
Honda Motor’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, passionately articulates their mission of creating an array of mobility products and services infused with the power of dreams. These innovations are designed to not only move the body but also stir the soul, helping countless individuals manifest their aspirations. “At JMS 2023, Honda is showcasing the tangible results of our dreams through mobility products, services, and technologies that transcend various boundaries, such as time and place,” Toshihiro Mibe enthused.
Unveiling Honda’s Future Vehicles
Let’s take a closer look at the cutting-edge concepts Honda introduced at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show:
1. Sustaina-C Concept and Pocket Concept (World Premiere)
The Sustaina-C Concept represents an eco-friendly electric vehicle and motorbike, with a commitment to sustainability at its core. Crafted from recycled and reused acrylic resin, this innovative vehicle incorporates solar panels on its hood and roof for harnessing the power of the sun.
2. SC e: Concept (World Premiere)
The SC e: Concept is an electric motorbike designed for seamless, swappable battery use, eliminating the inconvenience of waiting for charging. It’s powered by two Honda Mobile Power Pack e: swappable batteries, a stride towards the expansion of renewable energy.
3. HondaJet/Honda eVTOL
In a nod to the skies, Honda displayed a full-sized interior replica of the HondaJet Elite II light business jet. Visitors can explore the luxurious HondaJet interior firsthand. Additionally, a one-fifth-sized exterior replica of a Honda eVTOL, coupled with the gas turbine hybrid system in development as a Honda VTOL drive unit, was showcased. eVTOL, an abbreviation for electric Vertical Take Off and Landing aircraft, promises to revolutionize travel, making it more convenient for users.
4. Honda Mobile Power Pack e:
Honda Mobile Power Pack e: is an interchangeable battery, eliminating the need for lengthy charging times. A concept car powered by swappable batteries is also presented, marking a significant leap in user convenience.
5. Honda CI-MEV (World Premiere)
The CI-MEV, a compact car equipped with Cooperative Intelligence (CI) Technology, is aimed at addressing transportation gaps in Japan, especially in rural areas lacking public transportation. This vehicle ensures comfortable short-distance travel due to its compact design.
6. Honda Autonomous Work Vehicle (Premier Appearance in Japan)
This autonomous vehicle is designed for diverse applications, with a primary focus on efficient goods transportation between buildings. Equipped with cameras and various sensors, it promises to redefine mobility in industrial settings.
7. UNI-ONE
UNI-ONE is a chair-based personal mobility device that operates hands-free. Leveraging balance control technology developed through Honda’s extensive robotics research and the Omni Traction Drive System, this unique device moves effortlessly in all directions. It shifts its weight like a human when sitting, creating a natural and intuitive mobility experience.
8. From Shoes to Electric Bicycles
Honda’s innovation extends beyond traditional boundaries, with remarkable products emerging from their Ignition business creation program. Notable examples include Ashirase, an in-shoe navigation system for the visually impaired (Ashirase, Inc.), Striemo, a three-wheeled, one-person electric micro-mobility product (Striemo Inc.), and the RAIL Active-e electric bicycle, which epitomizes the future of micro-mobility.
9. Cruise Origin
In collaboration with Cruise, a GM subsidiary, Honda brings us the Cruise Origin—an autonomous “mini bus” set to operate autonomously. Scheduled to be introduced as a ride-hail service in early 2026, it promises to transform urban mobility, offering the convenience and efficiency of services like Gojek or Grab.
In conclusion, the Japan Mobility Show 2023, with Honda’s groundbreaking innovations and unwavering commitment to a sustainable and connected future, offers a glimpse into a world where dreams, mobility, and technology converge. Honda’s vision for the future transcends boundaries, promising a brighter and more accessible future for all.