Technologies engineered to recognize people's needs and make their lives better.
Through a suite of robotic concepts representing a variety of functions and designs, Honda shared its idea of a society where robotics and AI can support people in many situations such as disaster recovery, recreation and learning from human communication to become more helpful and empathetic.
Honda's 3E Robotics Concept (Empower, Experience, Empathy) is part of the corporates' essence areas of focus at CES 2018: robotics, mobility, and energy management. Rather than stand-alone devices that work independently, Honda envisions robotics as multiple devices that work collectively as a system, allowing people to expand their life's potential.
The company has applied AI to its 3E-A18 device, which enables the robot to communicate and cooperate with people. The 3E-A18 demonstrates “Empathy,” the concept that robotic devices have compassion toward and can achieve a mutual empathy with people while providing support for human activities. Developed to support people in their everyday lives seamlessly, 3E-A18 can serve as a guide at areas like airports or shopping malls where many people gather. The 3E-A18 is capable of offering information and care by understanding the individual needs of people and analyzing their surroundings and expressions.

Recognizing many people experience the need for comfort when placed in stressful situations, as exemplified by the widespread use of service animals, 3E-A18 is designed with a soft exterior skin that invites people to touch or hug the robot. 3E-A18 can communicate a range of facial expressions that are simple and easy-to-understand, facilitating friendly and comfortable communication between people and robots.
18 JANUARY 2018, USA