Honda Introduces All-New Insight Dedicated Hybrid Concept Vehicle at Paris Motor Show
Source: Honda
Oct 3, 2008 - 12:17:10 PM
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PARIS, France, October 2, 2008—Honda Motor Co., Ltd. presented the concept model
of its all-new Insight dedicated hybrid vehicle scheduled to be introduced in
2009, at the 2008 Paris Motor Show (October 2–19; Press Days: October 2–3).
Based on a theme of achieving dynamic performance through excellent
aerodynamics, the exterior design of the Insight concept model combines
excellent environmental performance and a fun to drive spirit. The compact
Insight Concept measures 4,375 mm (172.2 in.) in length, 1,695 mm (66.7 in.) in
width, and 1,425 mm (56.1 in.) in height, with specially designed, ultra-light
aluminum wheels and 205/40 R18 tires. With a cockpit that enables the driver to
experience the joy of driving, the interior of the Insight Concept provides an
advanced and futuristic feeling that is possible only through a hybrid
vehicle.
The all-new Insight, which will be developed based on this
Insight Concept, will be a five-door, five-passenger hatchback equipped with
Honda’s lightweight and compact hybrid system, with a 1.3-liter gasoline engine
serving as the main power source, assisted by an electric motor. While achieving
fuel economy on par with the Civic Hybrid, the new Insight will also achieve
excellent utility and light and comfortable driving through the adoption of a
new platform developed specifically for this vehicle. Honda will begin sales of
the all-new Insight in Japan, Europe and North America in spring 2009, and
projects annual global sales of 200,000 units.
In his speech at the Paris
Motor Show, Honda Motor president & CEO Takeo Fukui said, “This new Insight
will give more people the chance to get behind the wheel of a high quality
hybrid vehicle only Honda can develop.”
The name Insight was chosen to
denote that this new vehicle provides "insight" into a new era in which hybrid
vehicles come within reach of most car buyers.
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