Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe says the new hybrid system will be smaller, lighter, and more efficient
As enthusiasm for electric vehicles cools and more buyers return to traditional gas cars and hybrids, many automakers are following suit—and Honda is no exception. The company has already hinted at slowing its EV production, and now it’s doubling down on hybrids.
According to the UK’s Autocar, Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe said hybrid demand is rising. In response, the company plans to launch a new line of hybrid vehicles featuring what Mibe claims will be the “world’s most efficient” combustion-electric powertrain.
The new hybrid system will reportedly be slimmer, lighter, and about 10% more efficient than the current version, with a rev range that’s roughly 40% broader.
As previously reported by a known automotive media, Honda aims to release 13 new models with its next-gen hybrid technology globally by 2030. North America is a key focus, with plans to introduce hybrid setups on larger models like the Passport and Pilot.
While Mibe didn’t confirm which vehicles will get the updated powertrain first, he said it would be compatible with Honda’s existing 1.5- and 2.0-liter gas engines. That likely includes U.S. models such as the Accord, Civic, CR-V, and HR-V.
Still, Honda isn’t abandoning EVs entirely. The automaker remains committed to its upcoming 0 Series, which includes a sedan and SUV set to launch in 2026. “We would like to see the battery EV business as a pillar of our business from 2030 onward,” Mibe said.
The timeline for the new hybrids hasn’t been confirmed, but a rollout could come sooner rather than later.
