Honda Motor Co. is poised to import fully electric vehicles (EVs) manufactured in China to Japan for sale, with the launch potentially taking place as early as spring 2026. This move will signify a historic moment, as it will be the inaugural instance of a Japanese automaker importing and marketing pure EV models from China. The primary objectives behind this strategy are to diversify the options available in the Japanese automotive market and to enhance the operational efficiency of Chinese manufacturing facilities.

Honda intends to tailor its offerings based on models from its 'e:N' brand, customizing them to align with Japanese market standards prior to their sale. The initial lineup will consist of SUVs, which will be produced by a joint venture enterprise. The 'e:N' brand was unveiled in China in April 2022, merging Honda's extensive vehicle manufacturing expertise with China's cutting-edge technological prowess. The brand's first mass-produced models, the e:NS1 and e:NP1, have already made their debut in the market. Honda China has ambitious plans to introduce a total of 10 'e:N' brand models by the year 2027.