China Going Far In Electric Vehicle Segment, Honda: We're Left Behind

Honda e. (Doc. Honda)

JAKARTA - Automotive manufacturers from China are indeed actively producing electric-energy vehicles. This makes the leading manufacturer from Japan, which in fact dominates the automotive market, quite lagging behind in this segment.

This was also acknowledged by Honda CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, who said that Japanese manufacturers were left behind in terms of developing electric cars compared to China. However, his party is thinking about various ways to deal with it.

"They are clearly ahead of us, even more than expected. We are thinking of ways to fight it. If not, then we will lose," said Mibe, quoted by Automotive News, Wednesday, April 26.

At the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show, it became the stage for the host electric vehicle. Several electric cars were introduced such as Chery Omoda 5 EV, Li L7, Xpeng G6, and Changan Avatr 11.

However, that doesn't mean Honda is without preparation. The Sakura country manufacturer showcased several electric SUVs, consisting of three prototype models, namely e:NS2, e:NP2, and e:N to be produced in 2024.

In addition, Honda has long-term plans to launch its newest electric cars for the US, Chinese and Japanese markets.

Another ambition from this Japanese manufacturer is to produce more than two million units annually by 2030. Honda will also strengthen its partnership with General Motors in developing affordable electric vehicles that will be sold starting in 2027.