Honda Cars India has started testing its upcoming electric SUV across the country, ahead of the model's global launch scheduled for FY2026-27. The prototype, called the Honda 0 Alpha, was first revealed at the Japan Mobility Show 2025. It will now undergo assessments in Indian driving and climate conditions. India-built model planned for global markets, including Japan.
Production Site and Investment
To be manufactured at the Tapukara plant in Rajasthan. Investment of about Rs 1,200 crore planned for EV production. 0 Alpha testing program underway. Validation across Indian driving and climate conditions.
Testing Objectives and Executive Statement
Honda stated that the road tests will evaluate the SUV's performance in various conditions in India, such as urban areas, highways, and rough terrains. Charging performance and overall usability will also be reviewed during the trials. Takashi Nakajima, President and CEO of Honda Cars India, mentioned that
“The start of public road testing across India is a key milestone in our electrification journey. India has unique driving and climate conditions, making it essential for us to test our electric vehicle thoroughly in real-world situations.”
Manufacturing Infrastructure and Government Alignment
The Tapukara plant will support Honda's EV program. Investment of Rs 1,200 crore planned. The upcoming electric SUV will be built in India, with Honda’s Tapukara plant in Rajasthan designated as the production site. This project represents an investment of around Rs 1,200 crore, following a previous meeting between Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Honda Cars India's President and CEO Takashi Nakajima.
Market Strategy and Economic Impact
The model is set to make its global debut in FY2026-27, targeting markets in India and Japan first. Chief Minister Sharma noted that the project aligns with the “Make in India for the World” initiative, and could also create jobs in the region. This development follows discussions during Sharma’s visit to Japan in September 2024, when global manufacturers were encouraged to invest in EV production in Rajasthan ahead of the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit.
Global Re-evaluation and India Project Status
Global EV plans revised while the India project continues. Larger 0-Series SUV and sedan cancelled. Honda recently cancelled the larger 0-Series SUV and sedan that were initially part of its global EV rollout. This decision came after reevaluating market conditions and the decline in EV demand in some areas. However, Honda's India EV program remains unchanged, with the locally built 0 Alpha set to spearhead the brand's electric vehicle launch in the market.