Hybrid Insight, key for ‘new’ Honda

Compact hybrid car Insight, to be presented in production form in Detroit Auto Show 2009 and be on sale next April at a global scale, may be the big product news in Honda new direction, according to CEO, Mr. Fukui.

Following the global financial crisis, the manufacturer has adjusted car production/sales targets for slightly lower figures than predicted before, but two-wheel products will record an increase. After cancelling the development of the super sport NSX successor with a V10 engine and stopping activity in Formula 1 racing, Honda will plan R&D and production capacity adapted to the demand trend toward more small-sized and fuel efficient vehicles. A surge of sales for small cars and city cars is foreseen. Also, an all-new sporty hybrid vehicle, based in the concept coupe CR-Z, could be on sale at the end of 2010. Hybrid system will also be present in Honda Jazz range at mid term. To enlarge its hybrid line-up, Honda will consider applying this technology to medium to large-size vehicles.

Inside the manufacturer, electromotive technologies, including hybrid models, will advance as key activities for business and environmental sustainability. Honda focuses hybrid vehicles as the most realistic path at this moment for reduction of CO2 emissions. The electric motor needed for the hybrid system, already used in the Civic Hybrid, will see its production increased to 250,000 units per year, to meet the expectable demand.

The new Insight is a 5-door, 5-seat compact car of contained price that should help to popularize the hybrid formula. Sales per year could reach 200,000 units. Equipped with the already known IMA system to combine a low displacement thermal engine with an extra-thin electric motor, Insight will offer very low fuel consumption –therefore low CO2 emissions- and more than reasonable performance.