Honda Filed Trademark for DualPower eAWD System
The new hybrid technology aims to improve torque and powertrain refinement in larger future vehicles.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Car Types
Live Poll
Do you believe hybrid vehicles are a sufficient replacement for fully electric cars?
Honda has filed a trademark for its new DualPower eAWD system in the United Kingdom and Europe. The technology is designed to enhance performance in larger models through a new hybrid powertrain.
Why it matters
This development represents a strategic push to improve torque and refinement in Honda vehicles, helping the company stay competitive against rivals like the Toyota Sienna hybrid. It marks a shift for the manufacturer as it optimizes its lineup for future performance requirements.
Honda filed for the DualPower eAWD trademark on September 28, 2026, targeting a launch by the end of 2027. The system is expected to replace or supplement existing setups, including the 3.5-liter engine found in the current Honda Odyssey.
The players
Honda
A global automotive manufacturer known for its hybrid e:HEV technology and high-volume family vehicles like the Odyssey minivan.
Acura
The luxury division of Honda that is expected to debut the new all-wheel drive technology in its next-generation RDX model.
Toyota
A major automotive competitor whose Sienna hybrid model serves as a performance benchmark for this new powertrain development.
The details
The DualPower eAWD system functions by using a secondary electric motor mounted on the rear axle to provide electric all-wheel drive. By removing the need for a traditional driveshaft, this configuration allows for better space management and power delivery. The system will be paired with a new 3.0-liter V6 engine, which replaces the current J-Series platform to provide increased refinement.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: Honda filed the DualPower eAWD trademark.
By the end of 2027: Honda expects to launch the new hybrid powertrain system.
The Home Front
Automakers are increasingly prioritizing hybrid electrification to balance fuel efficiency with the power requirements of larger vehicles. This transition signals a departure from traditional internal combustion platforms in favor of modular electric systems that enhance vehicle torque.
Families considering an upgrade to a larger vehicle should monitor future refresh announcements for the Odyssey and RDX to see how these powertrain shifts affect fuel efficiency and towing capability. Consult with a licensed dealership representative once official specs are released in 2027.
The takeaway
This system points toward a future where larger family vehicles rely on rear-axle electric motors for all-wheel drive performance. Keep an eye on model-year refresh announcements to see how these powertrain updates influence the long-term utility of your next vehicle purchase.
Further reading
Learn more about evolving automotive technologies in Car Types.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CarBuzz.
Live Poll
Do you believe hybrid vehicles are a sufficient replacement for fully electric cars?
