Honda Motor(US:HMC) Huan Qiu Wang·2025-05-20 07:54Core Viewpoint - Honda is adjusting its global electrification strategy by reducing investment in pure electric vehicles and focusing more on hybrid vehicle production due to a slowdown in the U.S. electric vehicle market and changing consumer demand [1][3]. Investment Strategy - Honda announced a reduction in its planned electrification investment from 10 trillion yen to 7 trillion yen, a decrease of 30%, due to slowing global demand for electric vehicles [1]. - The revised strategy will emphasize research and production of hybrid models, aiming for more efficient energy use through technology upgrades of existing fuel vehicle platforms [1]. Production Facilities - Honda plans to transform its manufacturing facilities in Ohio, USA, to create a comprehensive base for both electric and hybrid vehicle production, with production expected to start in 2026 based on the "e:Architecture" platform [3]. - The initiative aims to balance market demand with supply chain flexibility, ensuring the synergy between traditional business and electrification transition [3]. Strategic Partnerships - Despite the termination of merger talks with Nissan and Mitsubishi, a strategic cooperation agreement signed in August 2024 remains effective, allowing Honda to collaborate with these companies on battery technology, autonomous driving, and software development [3]. - Honda intends to integrate Huawei's smart driving solutions in some models and collaborate with Renesas Electronics to develop high-performance chips to enhance product competitiveness [3]. Market Context - In Q1 2025, U.S. electric vehicle sales grew only 2.7%, significantly lower than the 47% growth in the same period last year, with electric vehicles accounting for 7.1% of total sales [3]. - Consumer concerns regarding range, charging infrastructure, and high insurance costs are key factors limiting the adoption of electric vehicles, prompting several automakers, including Volvo and Toyota, to delay their electrification goals [3]. Long-term Vision - Despite the short-term strategic adjustments, Honda remains committed to its long-term vision of achieving 100% global sales of pure electric or fuel cell vehicles by 2040 [4]. - The CEO emphasized that the current stagnation in electric vehicle sales is viewed as a "short-term headwind" [4].