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Honda Unveils Ye Series: New EV Brand for China with Local Tech
Honda is introducing a new electric vehicle brand in China, partnering with local companies such as Huawei and iFlyTek. The upcoming Ye series models will feature Huawei's xScene LCD panels and advanced conversational AI capabilities from iFlyTek. Toyota has also reached a deal with Huawei to develop assisted driving functions for its Chinese models.
Honda Motor, the Japanese automaker, has announced its plans to introduce a new electric vehicle (EV) brand in China. The move comes as Honda aims to adapt to the rapidly changing and highly competitive Chinese car market. The upcoming models, part of the Ye series, will feature components from local companies such as CATL, Huawei, and iFlyTek.
One of the key partnerships for Honda is with Huawei, the Chinese technology giant. The Ye series vehicles will be equipped with Huawei's xScene liquid crystal display (LCD) panels. The two companies are also exploring further collaborations, according to Igarashi Masayuki, head of Honda's China operations. Honda has also joined forces with iFlyTek, an artificial intelligence firm, to incorporate advanced conversational AI capabilities into its vehicle cabins.
The collaboration with Huawei is not unique to Honda, as Toyota has reportedly reached a similar agreement with the technology company. Toyota plans to develop assisted driving functions using Huawei's computing platform for its Chinese models.
The first two models under Honda's Ye series are set to be launched later this year, with four more models to follow by 2027. These vehicles will target a more premium segment compared to Honda's existing e:N lineup. The company's long-term goal is to sell only EVs in China by 2035.
Honda's decision to focus on EVs in China comes as the company faces challenges in the market. Its sales declined by 10.1% to approximately 1.2 million units last year.
Honda is introducing a new electric vehicle brand in China, partnering with local companies such as Huawei and iFlyTek.
The upcoming Ye series models will feature Huawei's xScene LCD panels and advanced conversational AI capabilities from iFlyTek.
Toyota has also reached a deal with Huawei to develop assisted driving functions for its Chinese models.
Source: TECHNODE