Honda Partners with IBM for Neuromorphic AI Silicon

Honda Motor has recently entered into a groundbreaking partnership with IBM to jointly research and develop next-generation neuromorphic and chiplet technologies for software-defined vehicles (SDV). This collaboration comes at a time when Honda foresees electric vehicles becoming mainstream by 2031, with ambitious plans to reduce battery production costs by at least 20% as part of a $64 billion initiative that includes the integration of digital twin technology.

The automotive industry is on the brink of a technological revolution, with the application of intelligence and AI technologies expected to accelerate significantly in the coming years. This shift is creating new opportunities for the development of SDVs, prompting Honda and IBM to join forces in anticipation of the design complexity, processing performance, and power consumption challenges that will arise.

One of the key areas outlined in the memorandum of understanding between Honda and IBM is the joint research of specialized semiconductor technologies such as neuromorphic computing and chiplet technologies. The ultimate goal is to enhance processing performance while simultaneously reducing power consumption, paving the way for more efficient and advanced SDVs in the future.

To ensure high performance and fast time to market for these next-generation vehicles, hardware and software co-optimization will be crucial. Both companies are committed to exploring open and flexible software solutions that can effectively manage the design complexity inherent in SDVs.

Honda is taking significant strides in developing its own operating system (OS) for AI-enabled Systems on Chips (SoCs) in its flagship Series 0 vehicles. By adopting a centralized architecture to consolidate multiple Electronic Control Units (ECUs) serving different domains, Honda aims to streamline operations and enhance overall efficiency in its EV production.

Furthermore, Honda is strategically establishing a vertically-integrated EV value chain with a strong emphasis on batteries, with plans to reduce battery costs by 20% and overall production costs by approximately 35% by 2030. The company has secured sufficient battery supply to support the production of around 2 million EVs annually, with the Honda 0 Series set to lead the charge with seven models slated for global launch by 2030.

As Honda's global CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, emphasizes, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to electric mobility, with plans to make EVs and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) account for 40% of its global auto sales by 2030. Honda's vision includes the establishment of a comprehensive EV value chain centered around batteries and the continuous advancement of EV production technologies and facilities.

The Honda 0 Series, a pivotal component of the company's EV strategy, will introduce innovative features such as a newly-developed compact e-Axle and ultra-thin battery pack to optimize vehicle design and performance. By leveraging Honda's original technologies and expertise, the new EV models aim to achieve significant weight reduction and improved stability through strategic placement of heavy components.

With a focus on enhancing the overall user experience, Honda's 0 Series models will offer a digital UX tailored to individual customers, supported by connected technologies and over-the-air updates for continuous improvement. The company's commitment to developing advanced automated driving technology underscores its dedication to safety and innovation in the evolving automotive landscape.

Looking ahead, Honda's collaboration with partners such as LG Energy Solution and GS Yuasa in the EV battery sector signals a proactive approach to expanding its presence in the electric vehicle market. By investing in cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, Honda is poised to lead the charge towards a greener, more efficient future in automotive manufacturing.