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Honda Insight, FCX Clarity and CR-Z
The new hybrid will be exhibited along with the FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel cell vehicle and CR-Z sports hybrid concept model.
The name Insight is taken from the hybrid 3-door hatchback model produced from 1999 to 2006.
The Insight Concept has clear stylistic links to FCX Clarity, with both vehicles’ forms shaped to maximise the efficiency of their respective drivetrains.
The Insight Concept "is the stylistic inspiration for the production version which will go on sale in 2009."
The car will benefit from a significant cost reduction in Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) components resulting in the most affordable hybrid vehicle to date.
This dedicated hybrid vehicle will be offered as a 5-door hatchback with seating for five passengers and built on a newly developed platform.
The compact control unit and battery are placed beneath the boot space to give the Insight both a low centre of gravity and the practicality of a conventionally powered hatchback.
Insight will utilise various technologies, including a function to assist more fuel efficient driving giving customers a further improvement in real world fuel consumption.
The first generation Honda Insight (1999-2006)
Along with the Civic Hybrid, the new vehicle will be produced at Honda’s Suzuka factory in Japan which recently has expanded hybrid motor production line.
“The original Honda Insight launched in 1999 was the pioneer of hybrid technology in Europe and remains an iconic symbol of Honda’s environmental innovation,” said Takeo Fukui, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. CEO. “This new Insight will also break new ground by providing an affordable hybrid to an expanded number of customers craving great fuel economy and great value.”
The Insight production vehicle will go on sale in Europe, Japan and North America during the first half of 2009.
According to the first unofficial information, Honda is planning for worldwide sales of 200,000 units a year with 100,000 going to the U.S. market alone.
Launched in 1999, the first generation Honda Insight achieved 70 mpg.
(Source: Honda)
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