Honda Revolutionizes Ohio's EV Production with Hybrid and Gas Models

Honda is making bold moves in the electric vehicle (EV) market, announcing plans to build its first electric model at its retooled EV hub in Ohio. The company's Marysville Auto Plant (MAP) will lead this new EV production initiative, with the first EV to be an Acura model slated for late 2025. However, Honda's plans go beyond just EVs, as the company revealed it will also manufacture gas and hybrid models on the same production line, signaling a comprehensive approach to its global production process.

Powering the Future: Honda's Innovative EV Hub in Ohio

Laying the Groundwork for EV Dominance

Honda's $700 million investment in its Ohio plants has been in the works for nearly two years, as the company prepares to revolutionize its production capabilities. The Marysville plant will serve as the centerpiece of Honda's EV hub, where the automaker will not only produce its first electric model, but also integrate gas and hybrid vehicles into the same manufacturing line.

Diversifying the Production Mix

Contrary to initial expectations, Honda's EV hub in Ohio will not be exclusively dedicated to electric vehicles. The company has announced plans to build gas and hybrid models alongside its EVs, a strategic move that showcases Honda's commitment to a comprehensive approach to its global production process. This diversification of the production mix will allow Honda to cater to a wider range of customer preferences and market demands, while leveraging the efficiencies of its retooled facilities.

Powering the Future: Honda's Intelligent Power Unit

As part of its EV production plans, Honda is preparing its Marysville plant for the sub-assembly of its Intelligent Power Unit (IPU), which houses the battery for its next-generation electric vehicles. This integration of battery module production, in partnership with LG Energy Solution, will streamline Honda's EV manufacturing capabilities and ensure a steady supply of critical components.

Accelerating the Transition to Electrification

Despite the addition of gas and hybrid models to its Ohio production lineup, Honda remains steadfast in its commitment to electrification. The company has set a goal of 100% of its sales being EV or fuel cell vehicles by 2040, a bold target that underscores its dedication to a sustainable future. The introduction of the Acura EV, based on the Performance EV Concept, and the successful launch of the Honda Prologue electric SUV, are early indicators of Honda's electrification strategy taking shape.

Powering the Future: Honda's Battery Joint Venture

To support its EV ambitions, Honda has partnered with LG Energy Solution to invest $3.5 billion, with plans to increase the investment to $4.4 billion, in a new battery plant. This joint venture will provide the necessary battery modules for Honda's next-generation electric vehicles, ensuring a reliable supply of critical components as the company accelerates its transition to electrification.

Driving Innovation: Honda's Marysville Plant Transformation

The Marysville Auto Plant, which will serve as the centerpiece of Honda's EV hub, is undergoing a significant transformation. By consolidating two production lines, the plant is preparing for the sub-assembly of the Intelligent Power Unit, a crucial component that will power Honda's future electric vehicles. This streamlining of the production process will enable the company to efficiently manufacture a diverse range of models, from EVs to gas and hybrid vehicles, all under one roof.