Honda unveils new automobile emblem as part of broader electrification transition
Honda has unveiled a redesigned version of its “H” emblem for the automobile business, signalling the start of what the company describes as a significant phase of transformation driven by electrification and intelligent mobility solutions. The update was announced on January 13, 2026, in Tokyo, and will be gradually implemented across future Honda vehicles and customer-facing platforms worldwide.
New emblem tied to EV strategy and future product portfolio
The previous auto-specific H emblem has been in use since 1963 and has undergone multiple revisions over the past six decades. The new iteration has been developed alongside Honda’s next wave of battery-electric and hybrid models, including products under the upcoming Honda 0 Series. The design direction for this series reflects a “from scratch” development approach aimed at rethinking core aspects of automobile engineering.
In terms of styling, the latest emblem is intended to resemble two open hands, referencing Honda’s mobility philosophy and its stated focus on human-centric vehicle development. The badge will first appear on next-generation EVs and hybrid vehicles scheduled from 2027 before being extended to dealerships, promotional material and motorsport activities linked to the automobile division.
Implications for Honda’s India business
The announcement also carries relevance for the brand’s India operations, which are undergoing strategic realignment. Honda has outlined plans to broaden its domestic product lineup, including up to 10 new launches by 2030 – seven of which will be SUVs. Company leadership has identified India as one of its key long-term growth markets alongside the United States and Japan.
Given this context, India-bound products are expected to adopt the new emblem once Honda’s next-generation electrified models begin arriving in the country. The transition aligns with Honda’s broader effort to rebuild competitiveness and scale in India after a period of limited product activity.
India’s role in Honda’s EV manufacturing footprint
Honda’s upcoming 0 Alpha electric SUV concept – first shown at the Japan Mobility Show in 2025 – is expected to play a central role in this roadmap. The production model is planned for assembly at the company’s Tapukara facility in Rajasthan, with India positioned as an export base for the vehicle. The model will incorporate the global 0 Series design framework while sharing select components with the Elevate SUV to support localisation.
Looking ahead
Honda’s adoption of a refreshed emblem is part of a wider organisational transition that prioritises electrification, software-defined vehicle development and expanded SUV offerings. While the new mark is symbolic, it also reflects strategic shifts that have implications for global markets, including India, where electrified and hybrid products form an important part of the company’s future portfolio.
