LAS VEGAS, Nevada, USA, January 7, 2025 – Honda today presented the world premiere of two prototype models at CES 2025 – Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV – representing two Honda 0 Series models to be introduced to global markets from 2026. The company also introduced its original vehicle operating system (OS), the ASIMO OS, to be applied to its global EV series.

• Honda 0 Saloon

By further advancing the concept model introduced last year at CES 2024, the Honda 0 Saloon prototype was developed in preparation for a market launch in 2026. While maintaining the exact styling design of the concept model, the prototype features both the low height and sporty styling that sets the Saloon apart from other EVs, and an interior space that is more spacious than people would expect based on the exterior dimensions.

The Honda 0 Saloon, the flagship model of the Honda 0 Series, will be based on the newly developed dedicated EV architecture and will feature a number of next-generation technologies that embody the “Thin, Light and Wise” development approach.

At CES 2025, Honda is focusing on introducing certain technologies and features that contribute to the “Wise” value of the Honda 0 Saloon. This includes the highly reliable Level 3 automated driving technology, which Honda put into practical use for the first time in the world, as well as “ultra-personal optimization” that will offer a mobility experience customized for each individual user, which will become possible with the ASIMO OS. 

The production model of the Honda 0 Saloon is scheduled to be introduced first in the North American market in 2026, then in global markets, including Japan and Europe. 

• Honda 0 SUV

Based on the Space-Hub concept model unveiled at CES 2024, proposing the new value of EVs as a “space” for people that Honda will offer with its future EV models, the company has now presented the prototype of a mid-size EV SUV – which will be the first Honda 0 Series model. By applying the “Thin, Light, and Wise” approach to an SUV, the interior space was further increased, and a spacious cabin was achieved with an outstandingly clear and unrestricted field of view with great flexibility.

Alongside the wide variety of next-generation technologies, the Honda 0 SUV will apply high-precision attitude estimation and stabilization control. This is based on 3D gyro sensors, technology Honda has amassed through the development of its original robotics technologies, to enable dynamics at the will of the driver on various road surfaces.

The production model of the Honda 0 SUV is scheduled to be introduced first in North American market in the first half of 2026, then in global markets, including Japan and Europe. 

• ASIMO OS

Honda 0 Series models will be equipped with the ASIMO OS, an original vehicle OS developed by Honda, which will be the core technology to achieve the ‘Wise’ value of the global EV series.

ASIMO was a humanoid robot capable of autonomous walking, developed as part of Honda fundamental technology research with the aim of helping people while coexisting with those in society. Honda began robotics research and development in 1986, and introduced ASIMO in 2000, becoming an icon in the field of robotics from the 2000s through 2010s and loved by people all over the world.

Even after concluding development of ASIMO, Honda has been further advancing its robotics technologies, including those that recognize external environments and autonomous behavior control enabling ASIMO to understand the intentions of people around it. By combining such robotics technologies with advanced intelligence technologies for the Honda 0 Series, the company strives to offer a unique value for software defined vehicles (SDVs).

As a software platform, ASIMO OS will apply integrated control of electronic control units (ECUs) for vehicle systems such as automated driving / advanced driver assistance systems (AD/ADAS) and the in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) system.

By constantly updating the in-vehicle software through over the air (OTA) updates even after the purchase of the vehicle, functions and services will be continuously advanced in accordance with the preferences and needs of each user. The functions and services subject to constant updates include those which enhance the value of “space” and the digital UX, that ensures a fun and comfortable mobility experience. Also, integrated control of dynamics unique to Honda, that determines the joy of driving, enabling the driver to feel at one with the vehicle.

• Automated driving (AD) technology

In 2021, Honda became the world’s first automaker to put Level 3 automated driving equipment into practical use with the launch of the all-new Legend equipped with Honda SENSING Elite, which qualified for Level 3 automated driving (eyes-off), and conditional driving automation in limited areas.

Honda developed Honda SENSING Elite to put this AD technology into practical use by anticipating all driving conditions and scenarios based on the premise that, in addition to reducing the number of traffic collisions in society, Honda AD must completely eliminate traffic accidents that people think a “human driver could avoid.”

Honda believes that the widespread use of eyes-off technology will lead toward the realization of zero traffic collision fatalities in the future. Based on this belief, Honda will strive to offer affordable automated driving vehicles to more customers around the world through the Honda 0 Series.

To this end, Honda has applied an original Honda AI technology that combines the unsupervised learning^*1 technology of Helm.ai and the behavior models of experienced drivers, which enable AI to learn with smaller amounts of data, and efficiently expand the range of situations where automated driving and driver assistance can be available.

In addition, Honda will apply its original cooperative AI developed through research into people and mobility to further improve the precision of cooperative behavior, such as yielding the right of way to others on the road, which is difficult even for a human driver. By applying these advanced technologies, Honda will realize a highly reliable driver assistance system that can respond quickly and appropriately to unexpected situations, such as an animal darting into the lane or an object falling onto the road.

Honda 0 Series models will be equipped with a system that enables the expansion of the range of driving conditions where driver assistance and Level 3 automated driving will be available. This expansion will start with eyes-off technology available in traffic congestion on highways, and will continue through OTA updates.

With Level 3 automated driving, the vehicle will be in charge of driving, which will enable a human driver to perform a “second task” while en route to their destination, whether watching a movie or remotely joining a meeting. Honda will further advance its technologies and become the first automaker to expand the application of eyes-off functions to all driving situations, opening up new possibilities for mobility.

• Development of SoC dedicated to Honda 0 Series

Honda and Renesas Electronics Corporation (Renesas) have announced an agreement to develop a high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) to realize the future SDVs the company aims to achieve with Honda 0 Series models.

For next generation models, which will be launched in the late 2020s, Honda will adopt a centralized E&E architecture that combines multiple ECUs, responsible for controlling vehicle systems, into a single, core ECU. This will serve as the heart of the SDV and manage various vehicle systems, such as AD/ADAS, powertrain control, and comfort features. To achieve this, the ECU requires a SoC that provides higher processing performance than traditional systems, while minimizing any increase in power consumption.

To fulfill such requirements, Honda and Renesas will realize a system that utilizes multi-die chiplet technology^*2 to combine the Renesas generic fifth generation (Gen 5) R-Car X5 SoC series with an AI accelerator optimized for AI software developed independently by Honda. With this combination, the two companies aim to develop a system that achieves one of the industry’s top class AI performances of 2,000 TOPS*³ (Sparse) with 20 TOPS/W power efficiency.

^*1 Unsupervised learning is one of the methods of machine learning, which supports AI. Unlike supervised learning through which AI learns the correct answers to derive from labeled input data, unsupervised learning lets AI learn without being provided with the correct answers and derives the patterns and unique characteristics of the unlabeled data on its own.
^*2 Technology to build a system by combining multiple chips (dies) with different functions
^*3 Tera Operations Per Second (TOPS) is a metric of AI processing performance and measures the number of operations that can be performed per second. Based on a sparse AI model. 

Honda is celebrating the legacy of its iconic Civic Type R with a new ‘Ultimate Edition’ that marks the end of sales for the model in Europe – with 40 units available now across the region, alongside the remaining standard models.

Designed to embody 28-years of hot hatch performance, this special model comes in trademark Championship White with bespoke red decals across both the bonnet and down the side of the vehicle that match its iconic badge. There is also a painted black roof, plus carbon details throughout, including a wing spoiler and doorstep garnish.

Inside, the carbon theme continues with a centre console panel, while additional lighting calls out select interior features, including the door lining, cup holder, centre console, footwell and under seat illumination. On opening the front doors, there is also a Type R logo projector that enhances the unique appeal.

As a special token, owners will receive a unique matching gift box containing a numbered emblem – from one to 40 – and a carbon key ring, alongside custom-made floor mats, and a car cover. All of which combines to make this the ultimate must have for any Type R super fan, ahead of European sales ending in 2026.

Hannah Swift, Head of European Strategy and Product at Honda Motor Europe, said: “As we say farewell to a true icon of the Honda automobile line-up in Europe, we thought it was fitting to give the Civic Type R the ultimate send-off with this special edition model offering our customers a unique opportunity to celebrate its legacy. The industry is changing, and our model range is having to evolve with it in accordance with European legislation. However, Type R has always been Honda’s ultimate expression of our passion for driving excitement, and we look forward to celebrating its heritage in the weeks and months ahead.”

The Civic Type R first came to prominence in Japan with the sixth generation of the Civic hatchback model in 1997. Since then, it has spanned a further five generations and many special editions besides, building a dedicated fan base around the world with its long tradition of high-performance inspired by the spirit of racing.

Further demonstrating its dynamic credentials across almost three decades, the Civic Type R has set front wheel drive production benchmarks at several circuits around the world – most notably the Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany on several occasions. It has also achieved similar feats at other circuits, including Magny Cours (France), Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium), Hungaroring (Hungary), Estoril (Portugal), Suzuka (Japan), Silverstone (UK), and Mount Panorama Bathurst (Australia).

This on-track success also extended to the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) and World Touring Car Cup (WTCR), in addition to other regional series, where the Civic Type R has been a popular choice and delivered drivers’ and team titles. In each case, these series are contested between vehicles based on mass-produced, front-wheel drive models, making them ideally suited to this vehicle’s performance credentials.

To find out more about the Honda Civic Type R Ultimate Edition, head to: https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new/civic-type-r/overview.htmlThe United Kingdom will receive 10 Civic Type R Ultimate Edition units, which will be available on a first come first serve basis. All sales will be conducted through our Retailer network. To locate your nearest Retailer, head to:

https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/find-a-dealer.html#search

International Jazz Day is celebrated on 30th April in 190 countries around the world

Honda is hitting the high notes on International Jazz Day with a unique duet between sounds created by its award-winning Jazz e:HEV and renowned, award-winning saxophonist, Otis Lawrence.

By capturing the car’s seat mechanism, fuel filler cap opening, and remote key fob, plus its doors, bonnet, and windows being opened and closed, the maestros at Honda have carefully arranged a backing track to accompany Otis and his saxophone – creating a one-off performance that is sure to strike a chord with Jazz fans around the world.

Nik Pearson, General Manager of Corporate Communications at Honda Motor Europe commented: “With its style, sophistication and famed reliability, the Honda Jazz is the perfect bandmate for Otis and his saxophone. Since embarking on its European tour over 20 years ago, the Jazz has built up a dedicated fanbase and received a chorus of strong reviews – this is therefore a fitting musical tribute to our very own chart-topper.”

Honda Jazz e:HEV
With its combination of space, efficiency and technology, the Honda Jazz e:HEV is packed with sax appeal. Now in its fourth generation, the hybrid model is one of the brand’s most successful ever, with almost 9 million global sales and more than 50 international awards since it launched in 2001. Available in four trim levels – Elegance, Advance, Crosstar and Sport Advance – the latest Jazz is the most advanced and practical model yet.

Instrumental in this success is an interior that provides unrivalled utility, practicality and functionality in a simple, ergonomic layout. There’s a class-leading 986mm of rear legroom, while rear Magic Seat configuration delivers both fold-flat or flip-up flexibility.

Like all Honda’s mainstream model range, the Jazz e:HEV also features a state-of-the-art electrified powertrain producing as little as 102 g/km (WLTP) and fuel economy of 4.5l/100km (WLTP).

For more information on the Honda Jazz visit: https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new/jazz-hybrid/

International Jazz Day
Founded in 2011 by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), International Jazz Day aims to promote peace, diversity and respect for human rights and dignity through the exploration and performing of Jazz music.

Honda has launched a pawsome new technology that makes car journeys more enjoyable for cat-loving drivers. Available across the brand’s model line-up, the new Catnip Car Seats option are the purr-fect addition for drivers that regularly transport their furry friends.

As all cat owners know, getting their feline friends into the car is a real challenge, especially when it ends in a visit to the vets. Wrestling them into their carry crate is hard enough, with painful cuts and scratches guaranteed. Once loaded into the car, your cat will let you know how unhappy they are with an ear-splitting soundtrack of growling, hissing and spitting.

Yet with this pioneering and pet-friendly technology, Honda has ensured that getting cats in the car will no longer end in cat-astrophe. Using specially developed catnip-infused foam inserts, these new seats guarantee even the most car-hating cats will be keen to climb aboard. In fact, Catnip Car Seats are so plush and pampering that the biggest challenge will be purr-suading your contented cat out of the car at the end of a journey.

Honda’s head of Pet Products, Annie Mal, commented: “Honda has always worked tirelessly to ensure that all our vehicles are pet-friendly, and this latest innovation proves that nothing is im-paw-sible when it comes to keeping our furry friends happy on the move. With our Catnip Car Seats, we’ve taken the stress and scratches that are usually part and parcel of transporting family felines and turned every journey into a paw-sitive experience.”

Available to order from 1 April, the Catnip Seats can be trimmed in both cloth and leather and are available on all Honda models, from the Jazz to the CR-V. Moreover, thanks to the carefully integrated design, these seats remain every bit as comfortable and supportive for human occupants as the standard items.

The Catnip Car Seat is the latest in a long line of pet-friendly technologies from Honda, following in the paw tracks of the Pet Co-Pilot Front Seat and Pet-Activated Wireless System (PAW-S). This new addition will soon be joined by other cat-friendly accessories, including a gear selector that doubles as a scratching post, an animated fishbowl home screen for the infotainment system, and a specially adapted glovebox with a ball-of-string dispenser.

Honda Motor Europe (UK) has won the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award, an independent seal of excellence, which recognises businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.

Feefo established the Trusted Service Awards in 2014 to recognise brands that use the platform to collect verified reviews and receive exceptional feedback from their customers. The awards are unique because they truly reflect a business’s dedication to providing outstanding customer service by analysing feedback from real customers.

Working with over 6,500 brands, Feefo is the world’s largest provider of verified reviews, helping both brands and consumers make better decisions, and enabling brands to deliver more personalised experiences.   

Consumer confidence continues to grow slowly back to pre-pandemic levels, but consumers remain cautious with their spending. The businesses that stand out will be those who put excellence in their service and weave in a customer advocacy strategy. This award celebrates brands that are delivering standards that go above and beyond.

Feefo has presented Platinum Trusted Service Awards to businesses that have achieved Gold standard for three consecutive years. To receive a Gold Trusted Service Award, businesses must have collected at least 50 reviews with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 5 between 1^st January 2024 and 31^st December 2024.

Sarah Roseblade, Head of Customer at Honda Motor Europe (UK) said: “Receiving a Platinum Trusted Service Award from Feefo means a great deal to us because it’s based entirely on genuine customer feedback. In today’s challenging economic climate, we understand the importance of delivering exceptional value and service. This award validates our team’s dedication to truly listening to our customers and meeting their needs. In 2025 and beyond, we remain committed to maintaining these high standards and continuing to put our customers first.”

Tony Wheble, CEO at Feefo, congratulated the winners: “During these economically challenging times, it’s inspiring to see companies like Honda Motor Europe (UK) consistently going above and beyond for their customers. The Trusted Service Awards recognise businesses that don’t just meet expectations – they exceed them. These awards celebrate companies that gather genuine feedback and use it to deliver exceptional customer experiences. The dedication shown by this year’s winners sets a benchmark for customer service excellence.”

Honda has announced the new hybrid electric Prelude will arrive in Europe in the early part of 2026 and will debut innovative Honda S+ Shift technology to further enhance the ‘joy of driving’ offered by the brand’s latest sports coupe.

The Honda S+ Shift will simulate the sound and feel of quick automatic gear changes – helping to deliver the model’s perfect balance of exhilarating driving pleasure to a new generation of Prelude drivers.

Following its debut 46 years ago, the original model was seen as a high-performance showcase of Honda’s cutting-edge technology across five generations until 2000. Picking up where it left off, the new Prelude will offer a compelling blend of style and sophistication alongside an efficient hybrid powertrain.

Hans de Jaeger, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe, said: “The Honda Prelude is an iconic nameplate, and this latest model promises to build on that heritage with our trademark hybrid performance and the latest dynamic technology. All with a view to not only delivering exceptional efficiency, but also the fun-to-drive performance for which this model is known. We are excited for its arrival in Europe following a very positive reception so far.”

Press Information
This announcement comes as Honda celebrates a quarter of a century of pioneering hybrid expertise, following the arrival of the revolutionary Insight coupe as Europe’s first mass-produced hybrid model back in 1999.

Ever since, the brand has pioneered the development of petrol-electric powertrain technology, with a range of models that have helped drivers make the smoothest, most convenient, and cost-effective switch to an electrified future.

Today, Honda’s mainstream automobile range is fully electrified, with Jazz, Civic, HR-V, ZR-V and CR-V all available with e:HEV powertrains as standard. Shifting seamlessly between EV, hybrid and engine drive with no input from the driver, they all combine exceptional ease-of-use with a rewarding driving experience, alongside highly competitive efficiency and emissions.

Honda is delighted that it’s CR-V has taken the top spot as the most reliable used SUV, according to Warrantywise.

Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile for Honda UK, said: “As we approach the CR-Vs third decade, we’re thrilled to see that it has been ranked number one as the most reliable used SUV. With the CR-V now in its sixth generation, the CR-V has and will always be the ultimate all-round family vehicle. A big thank you to Warrantywise for the accolade and giving the CR-V the respect and rating it so truly deserves”.

Antony Diggins, Managing Director of Warrantywise, said: “As children up and down the country return to school, we see added pressure on family vehicles, meaning having a trusted family wagon is more important than ever. Demands on budgets for new uniforms, books and even activities will create a new set of cost-of-living concerns, and the last thing families need is for their cars to need costly repairs during this time. This is why we have put a spotlight on the most reliable used SUVs for sale in the UK, to help households make a wise choice for their next family car.

“The Honda CR-V’s top ranking [in the Reliability Index] confirms its reputation as a dependable and trustworthy choice. In a time when families need their vehicles to be as reliable as possible, especially with the increasing demands of daily life, having a car that consistently performs without unexpected breakdowns is invaluable. At Warrantywise, our goal is to provide families with the peace of mind that comes from having an extended warranty plan.”

Honda used cars offer exceptional long-term value, technical innovation, distinctive looks and character. That’s why Honda approves cars up to 8 years old. At any one time, there are up to 6,000 Approved cars to choose from on the Honda website, providing customers with the best choice of Honda Approved Cars anywhere. To find out more – Honda Approved Used Cars for Sale: Find Your Favourite Models Here

For the full article on Warrantywise, click here – Back to the school run? Warrantywise gives top marks to the Honda CR-V as the most reliable used SUV | Warrantywise

Honda has announced its return to Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024, scheduled to take place from the 11^th to 14^th of July. This year’s festival marks a significant occasion for Honda as it showcases a variety of its iconic vehicles and heritage models.

One of the key highlights will be the first European public appearance of the Honda Prelude Concept. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the Prelude Concept within the First Glance paddock, offering an exclusive look at this highly anticipated model.

Tomoyuki Yamagami, Chief Engineer and Large Project Leader, Honda Motor, said: “The Prelude not only marks the latest chapter in our ever-evolving hybrid story, it is also the product of 25 years of pioneering hybrid research and development. Ensuring this model maintains its ‘sporty’ DNA by perfectly blending the efficiency and environmental advantages of electrified driving with an exhilarating experience behind the wheel – liberating users from their daily lives with increased driving pleasure.”

Interested customers can sign up to receive more information about the Prelude on the Honda website here – https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new-honda-prelude-concept

In addition to the Prelude, Honda will also be displaying a selection of its racing heritage Formula 1 cars and Grand Prix motorcycles, including the legendary RA272 and RC142. These models highlight Honda’s rich history and achievements in motorsport, as Honda celebrates 60 years since their first F1 participation.  Hikaru Miyagi will be driving the RA272 up the Hillclimb on Saturday, and Yuki Tsunoda on Sunday.

The Honda RA272 is a significant piece of motorsport history, known for being the first Japanese car to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix. The RA272 debuted in the 1965 season and is celebrated for its innovative engineering and performance. Key features of the RA272 include a 1.5-liter V12 engine capable of 13,000 rpm, showcasing Honda’s engineering prowess. Coupled to the lightweight Chassis designed with a focus on weight reduction to enhance speed and agility on the track. Continuing the 60^th anniversary celebrations, the RA272 will travel to California where it will participate in the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.

The Honda RC142 is another legendary machine, representing Honda’s excellence in motorcycle racing. The RC142 was part of Honda’s lineup during the 1950s, a period when the company established itself as a dominant force in Grand Prix motorcycle racing.

Furthermore, Honda is bringing its celebrated Civic Type R lineup to the festival, showcasing all UK generations from the EP3 to the latest FL5 model on Thursday. This lineup demonstrates the evolution and advancements in performance, agility, and style that the Civic Type R has undergone over the years.

To mark the Civic Type R’s Goodwood Festival of Speed celebratory Thursday run, Honda has released a limited batch of Civic Type R’s. The 118 cars are in Honda retailers now and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Type R enthusiasts can contact their local retailer here – Find your retailer | Retailer Search | Honda UK

The Goodwood Electric Avenue will host a variety of vehicles dedicated to the advancement of zero emissions driving with the Honda e:Ny1 featuring within the exclusive 15 vehicle lineup.

In addition, Honda will have a stand with cars, motorcycles, and power products on display. The brand will also be showcasing its performance partnership with England Rugby with lots of exciting activations for all the family. Back by popular demand, are the iconic Honda sunglasses. If you’re heading to the festival, find the Honda team in sunglasses and use the code ‘sunny side up’ to grab a pair.

“We are thrilled to return to Goodwood Festival of Speed,” said Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile at Honda UK. “This event holds a very special place in the hearts of both automotive enthusiasts and Honda, who were one of the original partners in the first Festival of Speed back in 1993.

We will have both the original and the Prelude Concept on display, which will be its first European public debut, and then at the other end of scale, we will also have our renowned hot hatch, the Civic Type R. We invite everyone to join us and witness the power, performance, and passion that defines Honda. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience whilst we celebrate 60 years since our first F1 race, 25 years of Hybrid Technology and so much more.”

Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 promises to be an exciting event for Honda fans and automotive enthusiasts alike, featuring a blend of historic and contemporary models that highlight Honda’s legacy and future in the automotive world.

Honda is helping people to ‘Go electric’ by offering its all new e:Ny1 SUV electric vehicle in Elegance grade for the same monthly payment* as it’s HR-V Hybrid Advance for finance customers.

Recognising that price is one of the main barriers to entry for people who are looking to go electric, Honda is giving customers the choice between powertrains.

Honda is offering £8,000 deposit contribution towards e:Ny1 which means that for £346 per month* (5.9% APR), customers can opt for the e:Ny1 Elegance, or the similarly specified HR-V Hybrid Advance for the exact same monthly payment*. The offer is valid from 1^st December 2023 until the 31^st January 2024.

For peace of mind, e:Ny1 also come with a 5-year care package which includes five-year service plan, five-year warranty and five-year roadside assistance.

Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile at Honda UK, commented: “We want to make it easier for consumers to make the transition to electric vehicles and we know that the price point of EVs is one of the main concerns people have.

We have decided to make our e:Ny1 Electric Elegance the same monthly payment as our HR-V Hybrid Advance equivalent, allowing customers to choose the powertrain that suits them best.”  

Honda e:Ny1 is a stylish family SUV with smooth electric power. It has a range of up to 256 miles (WLTP) and can be charged 10-80% in approx. 45 mins with a 100kW charger. e:Ny1 models also include Honda SENSING as standard – an intelligent suite of advanced safety features like Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control and more.

The e:Ny1 is priced from £44,995 OTR. To find out more about the e:Ny1, visit:
https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new/e-ny1-electric-suv/overview.html

The HR-V is priced from £30,695 OTR. To find out more about the HR-V, visit:
https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new/hr-v-hybrid/overview.html

Representative Finance Example:

France is the most popular driving holiday destination, according to research by Honda UK, with 2,900 UK Google searches every month. 

Driving To Europe 
Driving from the UK to countries in Europe may be time-consuming but it also allows you to take your time, pack your car with everything you need and enjoy scenic views. UK search data reveals the top five European countries that people are hoping to drive to this summer:  

1 France
2 Spain
3 Italy 
4= Switzerland
4= Belgium
5= Germany
5= Portugal

It takes just 35 minutes to travel through the Channel Tunnel, transporting drivers from South Kent to Northern France. From there, you can drive to the location of your choice – with the correct documents.

France tops the list, making it the most popular destination for drivers from the UK. It takes just six hours and 48 minutes to drive from Calais to Central France, making it the shortest journey on the list. If you fancy seeing the French capital, it takes just under 3 hours and 30 minutes to get to Paris.

Portugal offers the longest drive, taking 18 hours and 26 minutes to reach from the Channel Tunnel. 

Driving Safely This Summer 
Short spells of hot and thundery weather have been predicted by the MET office for this month¹, and as drivers set off towards countries that are hotter still, Honda has consulted three experts to share their top tips for driving safely this summer. 

Bright sunshine and high temperatures pose a challenge when driving, and with schools on holiday and more people on the road, drivers also need to navigate busier traffic during the day. 

Invest in your eyes
Mr Mark Wilkins, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at OCL Vision, suggests that drivers should wear sunglasses when driving in bright conditions.

He advises: “[They] should reduce intensity of visible light so that the wearer feels comfortable. They should have a polarising filter to deal with glare from horizontal surfaces such as roads, and also block UV light which is harmful to the eyes.

“[Sunglasses] should not be prone to breaking or scratching. If they are too small, they will reduce the field of vision and allow light in from the sides. If they are too dark or significantly alter colour perception, this could [also] be a risk when driving, as it affects how you see potential hazards.”

Prepare for pollen
Dr Runa Ali, Consultant Physician in Respiratory Medicine and Allergy at King Edward VII’s Hospital, warns that hay fever symptoms can impair concentration and vision, which can in turn compromise driving performance and safety.

She advises: “Keep your car window closed and use air conditioning to minimise pollen exposure inside the vehicle.

“Use tissues or handkerchiefs to manage sneezing and any nasal symptoms. It is best to avoid using sprays or strong scents in the car as this may trigger symptoms.

“Take your prescribed or over the counter hay fever medications, such as antihistamines, as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. It’s important to ensure that these medications do not cause drowsiness, as this could impair your driving ability. Avoid drowsy antihistamines, such as chlorpheniramine (Piriton).

“If you experience severe hay fever symptoms while driving, pull over in a safe place until you feel comfortable to continue driving.”

Take a break
Jack Cousens, Head of Roads Policy at AA, says: “Taking regular breaks is a simple way to keep safe when driving long distances this summer. Taking a ten-minute break every couple of hours at a service area, or even venturing into towns and villages to seek a coffee and a chance to stretch your legs, will help keep your mind on the task. 

“However, if you do feel sleepy the only way to beat it is to sleep, so find a safe place to stop take a short nap.”   

Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile at Honda UK, advises: “Driving in the summer can pose unique challenges, which is why it is important to be prepared and take steps to make your journey safer. The experts that we consulted have shed light on some important considerations, to help you to prepare and pack your car with everything that you might need – from antihistamines, to sunglasses, to a simple cup of coffee.”

Visit Honda UK’s Engine Room for more advice on how to drive safely this summer.