- Vehicle Innovator Award honors pioneers who are redefining automotive innovation through software-driven technologies
- Shikama's work includes the 2021 Honda Legend EX, the world's first commercially available Level 3 automated vehicle
- Shikama leads Honda software-defined vehicle development, including the new ASIMO OS operating system for Honda 0 Series EVs set to debut later this year
Honda executive chief engineer Mahito Shikama, who leads Honda software-defined vehicle development efforts, was honored last night with the prestigious MotorTrend Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Innovator Award during a ceremony at CES 2026. The award recognizes Shikama's groundbreaking contributions to automotive software innovation, notably his leadership in developing the 2021 Honda Legend Hybrid EX, the world's first commercially available Level 3 automated vehicle.
The MotorTrend SDV Innovator Awards celebrate individuals who are redefining automotive innovation through software-driven technologies. Winners are selected by MotorTrend's editorial panel and represent the forefront of advancements in operating systems, AI, digital cockpits, Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving.
Shikama's work on the Honda Legend Hybrid EX equipped with Honda Sensing Elite marked a historic milestone in mobility. Introduced in 2021 in Japan, the Legend Hybrid EX became the first vehicle certified for Level 3 conditional automation, allowing hands-off driving on public roads under certain conditions while maintaining safety and driver engagement. This achievement positioned Honda as a global leader in automated driving technology and set the stage for the evolution of software-defined vehicles.
"On behalf of my entire team at Honda, it is an honor to be recognized by MotorTrend for our efforts in advancing software-defined vehicle technology at this time of transformation within the global auto industry," said Mahito Shikama, vice president, head of Software Defined Mobility Development Unit BEV Development Center, Electrification Business Development Operations at Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
An executive chief engineer at Honda, Shikama is now leading the company's in-house development of the ASIMO OS operating system that Honda debuted at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. ASIMO OS will be introduced on Honda and Acura EV models that will begin to come to market later this year, providing integrated management of electronic control units for automated driving and advanced driver assistance systems, in-vehicle infotainment and other vehicle systems.
With the ability to run various applications, similar to operating systems found on smartphones, ASIMO OS will offer a personalized experience that will enhance the joy of driving and the ownership experience. ASIMO OS will utilize OTA updates to bring new customizable features and services to vehicles over time.
About Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (NYSE: HMC) is responsible for the development, production and sales of automobiles, motorcycles, power products and aviation products worldwide, leading to annual sales of over 30 million products. Honda and its partners build products in more than 60 manufacturing plants in over 20 countries, employing about 220,000 associates globally. On a global basis, by 2050, Honda is striving to reduce the environmental impact of all products and corporate activities and realize zero fatalities from traffic collisions involving Honda automobiles and motorcycles.
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