According to the CEO of Honda, combustion engines will survive beyond 2040 because of the lack of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles accessible to all.
The transition to electric will not happen in a day, or even in a decade. The EU has just suffered a setback on the subject. Thermals still have many years to live and that’s exactly what Honda thinks.
An opinion from a renowned engine manufacturer
The Honda’s PDGToshihiro Mibe, said in a recent interview with Archyde.com what internal combustion engines shouldn’t not disappear before at least 2040. One of the major reasons for this assertion is the charging infrastructure issues.
« Charging infrastructure is not where it should be for our customers “, he said bluntly.
This isn’t a new argument and it’s important that top automakers recognize this reality, especially as governments in many countries are pushing hard with incentives for electric vehicles.
Mibe also clarified that he separates his personal preferences from the industry as a whole. ” I’ve been in the engine development business for over 30 years, so personally it’s a bit threatening. But I have to separate my own feelings from what’s best for the company. »
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Honda advances on electric
The Japanese manufacturer has already done significant progress towards electrification. In January, Honda and LG Energy announced the construction of a new joint battery plant near Columbus, Ohio, with production expected to begin in 2025.
She had previously hired an investment of 700 million dollars in 3 of its factories in the USA, where the Accord and Civic are produced.
In addition, Honda and Sony have announced a major partnership to develop electric vehicles that will hit the market in 2026. These will use internally developed platforms.
Honda is also working with General Motors, which will provide its Ultium platform for large SUVs that will be manufactured directly in GM factories.
Mibe added that Honda is currently conducting studies around key infrastructure like chargersbatteries, air vehicles and even rockets.
Synthetic, low-carbon fuels are also on the list. Like Porsche, Honda sees synthetic fuels as a way to keep sports cars for about two more decades.
But he pointed out that ” as we move towards carbon neutrality, we are focusing on electrification and fuel cells – these are the two essential elements of future mobility ».