Quick Highlights:
- Honda has revealed the concept of the 0 α (Alpha) EV SUV under its global 0 Series at the Japan Mobility Show 2025.
- The 0 α is positioned as the entry model in the 0 Series — a mid-size electric SUV built on a dedicated EV platform with the “Thin, Light, and Wise” design philosophy.
- Launch in India is expected in 2027, with local manufacturing planned.
- Battery options are expected in the 65 kWh–75 kWh range (LFP chemistry), with a targeted driving range of over 500 km.
- Estimated pricing in India: around ₹25 lakh–30 lakh (ex-showroom).
- It will compete directly with other mid-size EVs in India such as Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra BE 6, MG ZS EV.
Discover the upcoming Honda 0 Series “0 α (Alpha)” electric SUV for India
Honda’s 0 Series marks a fresh chapter in the brand’s electric mobility strategy globally and in India. According to Honda’s corporate website, the 0 Series comprises concept models such as the 0 Saloon, 0 SUV and now the 0 α.
The strategy comes at a time when India’s EV market is rapidly expanding, especially in the mid-size electric SUV segment. For Honda, India is a key market after the U.S. By bringing a clearly defined EV model like the 0 α, Honda aims to re-establish its presence in SUVs and electric vehicles in India.
Launch Timeline and Market Planning in India
The production-spec version of the 0 α is set to go on sale globally in 2027, with Japan and India among the first markets.
Earlier, Honda had indicated a separate 0 Series SUV (the larger CBU import) would arrive in India in 2026 via a completely built-unit (CBU) route.
Thus the plan seems to be:
- Short term: Larger 0 Series SUV imported (CBU) for India.
- Mid-term: Locally manufactured 0 α (entry mid-size EV) for India from 2027.
Design and Architecture
The 0 α follows Honda’s “Thin, Light, and Wise” design philosophy — which emphasizes slender structure, lighter weight, efficient packaging and smart systems.
Key exterior design highlights:
- A low-slung but wide stance for SUV usability yet reduced height.
- Front fascia: The charging port cover, headlights and illuminated Honda logo are integrated into one smooth digital fascia.
- Rear design: U-shaped LED tail-light bar stretching across the width, dual-tone alloy wheels, strong wheel-arch cladding and upright tailgate.
- Dimensions: Chief Engineer Toshikazu Hirose mentioned wheelbase in the 2,700–2,800 mm range.
Interior details are yet to be officially revealed, but expectations are high for a flat-floor layout, panoramic digital cockpit and clutter-free ergonomics aligned with the 0 Series design ethos.
Platform, Battery and Performance
Honda has confirmed the 0 α will be built on a dedicated EV architecture designed with “born-electric” sensibility.
Battery and powertrain details:
- Expected battery packs: ~65 kWh to ~75 kWh (LFP chemistry) geared for durability in markets like India.
- Drive configuration: Initially a single-motor, front-wheel-drive setup; dual-motor/all-wheel versions may follow.
- Projected driving range: Over 500 km on a single charge (estimated).
- Other technical cues: The “Thin” packaging allows a low vehicle height without compromising ground clearance, thanks to clever battery packaging and wide stance.
Segment, Positioning and Expected Pricing
In India the 0 α is set to slot into the 4.2-4.5 metre mid-size electric SUV category (though exact length hasn’t been confirmed). It is expected to rival:
- Hyundai Creta EV
- Tata Curvv EV
- Mahindra BE 6
- MG ZS EV
Estimated ex-showroom pricing in India: ₹25 lakh–30 lakh, which places it in the premium yet accessible EV segment.
What Sets the 0 α Apart
- Distinct design language with visual identity: integrated lighting, futuristic surfacing, wide stance.
- Dedicated EV platform built from ground up, rather than adapted ICE platform.
- Honda’s brand strength, reputation for reliability and global engineering standards applied to India market.
- Potential local manufacturing should help keep costs competitive and service/parts availability strong.
- Software-defined vehicle capabilities (OTA updates, connectivity, advanced driver assistance) are hinted as part of the 0 Series technology stack.
Anticipated Strengths & Possible Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Strong design appeal: The 0 α’s styling is eye-catching and futuristic by Indian standards.
- Established brand backing: Honda’s engineering, global sourcing, build quality credentials matter.
- Dedicated EV architecture: Should translate to better packaging, range, and onboard space.
- Local production: Reduces cost pressure, benefits service network, allows quicker adaptation to local needs.
Possible Weaknesses / Risks:
- Time-to-market: A 2027 launch means the competitive environment may be more crowded by then.
- Price sensitivity: The Indian EV buyer is highly price-sensitive; premium pricing may limit volume.
- Charging infrastructure: As with many EVs, real-world ownership will depend on charging ecosystem.
- Early specification ambiguity: Critical details (charging speed, motor power, actual real-world range) are still unconfirmed.
What to Watch Before Booking
- Final pricing: Will determine competitiveness in the Indian market.
- Specification sheets: Battery capacity (kWh), usable range (km), charging times (AC & DC), drive motor setup.
- Variant strategy: Single vs dual motor, FWD vs AWD, feature levels.
- Legacy of Honda support: Service, parts, software updates.
- Localization: The extent of local sourcing and production in India.
- Build quality and warranty: Indian buyers expect good quality, after-sales and warranty support from a premium EV.
- Timing of launch and pre-bookings: How Honda positions it in 2027, whether early launch advantage exists.
Implications for Honda in India
For Honda Cars India, the 0 α (and the broader 0 Series) represents a two-fold strategic move:
- Re-establishing a strong SUV presence with modern electrified offerings.
- Transitioning toward a future of EV mobility aligning with Honda’s global goals (e.g., carbon-neutral by 2050).
If Honda manages to localize production, optimize cost, and price the 0 α competitively, it could reshape its fortunes in India’s fast-growing EV space — appealing to tech-savvy, design-conscious buyers who seek global-quality EVs rather than adapting ICE models.
Summary
The Honda 0 α SUV stands as a highly promising entrant in India’s mid-size electric SUV segment. With its design, brand heritage and dedicated EV architecture, it has the potential to carve out a niche — provided Honda executes well on pricing, specs and localization. For buyers and industry watchers alike, 2027 will be a key year to watch for this model.
