Honda Prologue: First Electric SUV - Release Date & Details

Honda's Entry into the North American Electric SUV Market

Honda announced on Monday its plans to launch its inaugural all-electric SUV in North America during the early months of 2024. This move represents a significant step in the automaker’s broader strategy to transition away from vehicles powered by internal combustion engines before the mid-2020s.

Introducing the Prologue

The vehicle, named Prologue, is intended to symbolize the commencement of what Honda has termed its “new electrified era.” It signifies a new chapter for the company in the evolving automotive landscape.

Collaboration with General Motors

Prologue is one of two upcoming Honda vehicles that will leverage General Motors’ Ultium Cells EV platform and battery technology. The second vehicle, currently unnamed, will be released under the Acura brand, also slated for a 2024 debut.

As part of a long-standing partnership, GM will handle the manufacturing of both vehicles at its facilities located throughout North America.

Competitive Landscape and Key Details

While Honda is currently withholding specific information regarding the new SUVs, such as pricing and exterior design, it is confirmed that they will compete within the rapidly expanding electric SUV market.

Key competitors include established models like the Tesla Model Y, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, and the Volkswagen ID.4.

Ambitious Electrification Goals

Honda has aligned itself with other major automakers, including GM and Volvo, in establishing aggressive electrification objectives.

CEO Toshihiro Mibe revealed in April a progressive sales target for battery and fuel cell electric vehicles: 40% by 2030, 80% by 2035, and a complete cessation of internal combustion engine vehicle sales by 2040.

Future EV Platform Development

To support these goals, Honda intends to develop its own dedicated EV platform, known as e:Architecture, for models launching in the latter half of the decade. This platform will underpin future electric vehicle offerings.

Battery Recycling Initiatives

In a separate announcement on Monday, Honda revealed a partnership with Battery Resourcers to facilitate the recycling of batteries from Honda and Acura electric vehicles.

The initial battery processing will occur at Battery Resourcers’ facility in Worcester, Massachusetts, with plans to expand to a larger commercial-scale plant expected to be operational in 2022.

Battery Resourcers recently secured $20 million in Series B funding to scale its operations and bring the new plant online.