Dongfeng Honda has unveiled a new NEV production facility, marking a key step toward its goal of an all-electric lineup by 2035.

Dongfeng Honda has opened its first production plant dedicated to new energy vehicle (NEV) production in Wuhan, now operational and accessible for public tours since early October. This facility marks a significant milestone in Honda’s EV roadmap, boasting an annual production capacity of 120,000 units. Its initial output includes the Lingxi L and Ye S7 models.

Designed with advanced automation and intelligent systems, the factory is said to feature over 400 robots and 260 automated guided vehicles, alongside state-of-the-art automated quality inspection technologies. During a site visit, 36Kr observed these innovations in action, highlighting the factory’s integration of eight general systems and five workshop-specific digital systems. Together, they enable a seamless, fully traceable digital workflow, from logistics to production, enhanced by intelligent scheduling tools.

One standout innovation is the water-based dual-color coating process applied to the Lingxi L. This method delivers a thicker coating with superior resistance to scratches and corrosion. Quality control is reinforced by a multifunctional detection system that is claimed to ensure a 100% paint defect detection rate, eliminating substandard products. In chassis production, a blend of visual inspections and advanced detection algorithms has significantly reduced false and missed defect identifications, targeting zero-defect outputs.

Looking to the future, Gou Tiansheng, Dongfeng Honda’s deputy general manager, announced plans to launch two new pure electric models, the Ye S7 and Ye GT, in 2025. Updates and reintroductions of popular models like the CR-V, Civic, Inspire, and Elysion are also in the pipeline. By 2027, Honda aims to offer ten pure EV models in China, building on its e:N series launched in 2022 and the new Ye series debuting in 2024. By 2035, the company envisions pure EVs comprising 100% of its sales portfolio.

The Ye S7, produced at this new facility, leverages Honda’s innovative W architecture. This platform integrates a high-power “three-in-one” drive motor and an aluminum die-cast casing that houses a high-density battery with a split-isolated cooling system. Offering rear-wheel single-motor and all-wheel dual-motor drive configurations, it provides users with customizable driving modes tailored to their preferences.

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