Honda’s entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market in Australia might happen sooner than initially anticipated, according to recent statements from Honda Australia’s boss, Carolyn McMahon. Previously, reports from a roundtable meeting in March 2023 suggested that Honda wouldn’t introduce an EV in Australia for at least five years, with projections pointing to a potential launch in 2028.
However, McMahon clarified during the recent launch event for the new Accord that the widely circulated 2028 timeline was inaccurate, hinting at an earlier arrival without specifying a precise date. McMahon stated, “I think this time last year we spoke about our mid-term plan. Some pegged that at 2028 [for the first EV’s launch]. It’ll be earlier than that.” While details remain under wraps, Honda is actively working on introducing battery electric vehicles to the Australian market.
Although Honda offers hybrid variants of its models in Australia, it hasn’t officially sold EVs in the country. However, grey market imports of the Honda e city car have occurred through third-party channels. Currently, Honda produces a limited selection of EVs in various regions globally, including China, Europe, Thailand, and Mexico in partnership with General Motors.
Honda’s global strategy involves launching a total of 30 EVs by 2030, with plans to expand its lineup from Japan and other countries. Additionally, Honda announced a significant investment to establish an EV assembly and battery plant in Ontario, Canada, aiming at the North American market.
When questioned about the source of Australian-bound EVs, McMahon mentioned that supply decisions would consider compliance regulations and consumer demand, without ruling out any specific regions.
Out of the nine Japanese carmakers in Australia, only five currently offer EVs, including Toyota, Lexus, Mazda, Nissan, and Subaru, while Honda is gearing up to join the electric revolution in the country.