Honda is considering integrating Huawei’s smart driving technology into its Ye electric vehicle (EV) brand, according to a report by Chinese media outlet 36kr, citing multiple sources. This partnership could see Honda offering Ye models with both its proprietary Sensing 360+ system and Huawei’s advanced smart driving solutions.
The Ye brand, unveiled in April 2024, marks Honda’s third EV initiative in China, following the e:N and Lingxi brands. Aimed at catering to Chinese customers, the Ye lineup is built on Honda’s all-electric Architecture W platform. However, the anticipated launch of its flagship models—the Ye P7 and Ye S7—has been delayed to the first quarter of 2025 due to challenges in marketing, communication, and smart technology integration, sources told 36kr.
“The Ye brand aims to leverage Huawei’s technology to strengthen its position in the competitive Chinese NEV market,” the report noted, adding that autonomous driving regulations have slowed Honda’s commercialization efforts. The Ye brand is also working with suppliers like CATL, Huawei, and iFlytek, with plans for an advanced smart cockpit featuring AR-HUD technology developed jointly by Honda and Huawei.
Honda’s collaboration with Huawei reflects a broader trend among automakers in China turning to Huawei’s smart driving solutions to enhance competitiveness. “With Huawei’s smart driving solution, Honda can quickly boost its capabilities in intelligence,” the report added.
Despite these efforts, Honda is grappling with declining sales in China. From January to November 2024, the Japanese automaker sold 740,399 vehicles in the country, marking a 30.7% year-on-year drop, according to CnEVPost. The company has yet to announce December figures.
To bolster its presence in China’s NEV market, Honda launched its first global NEV production plants in 2024. Facilities in Wuhan and Guangzhou, operated by its joint ventures with Dongfeng Motor and GAC Group, respectively, each have an annual production capacity of 120,000 units.
