• Honda is investigating the use of sound generators for upcoming 0 Series EVs
  • Engine sounds of popular models might be offered, possibly at a small cost
  • First Honda 0 Series EV due in late 2025

Honda's next generation of electric vehicles, referred to as the 0 Series, might provide owners with the opportunity to make their EVs sound—at least on the inside—like some of Honda's most cherished sports cars, and even the automaker's former Formula 1 cars and Honda Jet aircraft.

During a recent test drive of a 0 Series prototype, which used a Honda Accord body to hide the new fully electric platform, Honda provided a demonstration of a digital user interface concept being used to develop the system destined for future Hondas, including the 0 Series. For the demonstration, the user interface concept was installed in a Honda E, an electric subcompact hatch sold overseas.

While the concept had the typical features coming to new cars like facial recognition, over-the-air updates, and in-vehicle purchases, it also had a menu for a sound generator complete with sounds mimicking several vehicles, plus the aforementioned F1 car and Honda Jet.

Among the production models whose sounds have been recreated are the S2000, Civic Type-R, CR-X, NSX Type-S, NSX Type-R, Honda E, and a recreation of a DOHC VTEC engine sound. Some of the sounds are locked as they need to be purchased, which will potentially provide Honda with a new source of revenue. And as a cool touch, selecting one of the sounds also switches up the digital gauge cluster to match the design of the original vehicle's cluster.

According to Honda, the sound changes based on the vehicle's speed and the position of the accelerator, but there's no effect for simulating gear changes. The sounds can also be switched off for anyone seeking serenity. Honda is making efforts to ensure the 0 Series has some of the quietest cabins of any vehicle on the market.

Many EVs already offer sound generators, including some that create sounds that onlookers will hear. In an attempt for authenticity, some automakers, such as Ferrari which plans to launch an EV next year, are looking at ways to enhance and amplify the actual sounds made by the electric powertrain's hardware.

In the case of Honda's 0 Series, we'll have to wait until the first production model, likely to be an SUV, lands in late 2025. The 0 Series was announced in January during CES 2024 as a family of next-generation Honda EVs to be sold globally. At least seven are planned for launch by the end of the decade, including some in North America.