A new Honda EV for under $30,000? That’s the plan. And it could come as soon as next year. Honda plans to build the new electric car in the US as part of its new Honda 0 Series EV lineup. Here’s what we know so far.
Is Honda launching an EV for $30,000 in the US?
After a strong sales year in the US, Honda is aiming for a bigger share in its most important market, which accounts for roughly a third of the Japanese automaker’s sales.
After a slow start, Honda is looking to catch up in the EV market. Although sales of its first electric SUV, the Prologue, surged last year after deliveries began in March, Honda is launching an entire new lineup of EVs soon.
The Prologue is based on GM’s Ultium platform, which also underpins new electric Chevy, Cadillac, and GMC models.
According to Nikkei, Honda plans to launch a smaller EV priced under $30,000 in the US as early as 2026. It will be made locally, starting with the batteries, to cut costs. The new EV is expected to be the entry-level model for its upcoming Honda 0 Series. It will be a cornerstone for Honda’s global expansion.
Honda showcased two concepts from the lineup, an SUV and a Sedan, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) last month.
The report claims Honda will build the $30,000 EV in Ohio. It will be one of seven new models in the lineup that will arrive by 2030.
Honda’s plan to launch a low-cost EV comes as US President Trump plans to end federal EV subsidies and other programs designed to accelerate adoption. He is also threatening new tariffs on key trade partners like Mexico, Canada, and Europe.
The smaller EV will arrive after the SUV and sedan, which are expected to cost around $50,000 to $60,000. Honda is expected to begin production later this year.
Honda expects the new 0 Series lineup to accelerate EV sales. By 2040, it aims for EVs and FCEVs to account for 100% of new car sales.
Electrek’s Take
At under $30,000, Honda’s new EV would be cheaper than most gas-powered cars, giving it a significant advantage.
Several other automakers like Ford, GM, Tesla, and Rivian are also planning to launch smaller, lower-cost EV models, so it could face more competition by then.
Either way, it would likely be a hot seller. Honda sold over 33,000 Prologue SUVs in the US last year after deliveries began in March. Honda’s electric SUV outsold the Chevy Equinox (28,874), Cadillac Lyriq (28,402), and Chevy Blazer EV, and it’s based on the same platform.
Although GM discontinued its iconic Bolt EV, the smaller electric car is due to make a comeback in 2026. The new Bolt will be a part of a “family of Bolts,” according to GM President Mark Reuss. It’s also expected to start at around $30,000 or less.
Will Honda’s new EV compete with the next-gen Chevy Bolt EV? Or will it be based on it? GM is also in talks with Hyundai about rebadging EVs and selling them in the US. Stay tuned for more. We’ll keep you updated with the latest.
With leases starting as low as $209 per month, the Honda Prologue is already more affordable than many gas cars. You can use our link to find offers on the 2024 Honda Prologue at a dealer near you today.