2007 Honda Small Hybrid Sports

Original name: ホンダスモールハイブリッドスポーツ

HONDA UNVEILS HONDA SMALL HYBRID SPORTS CONCEPT

March 6, 2007, Geneva Honda has unveiled a concept model which represents its interpretation of how a future hybrid model might appear. Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, a design study model, demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced environmental technology, exciting styling and fun-to-drive characteristics. This is its world premiere for the model, which has been penned by the design studio at Honda R&D Europe based in Offenbach, Germany.

The Small Hybrid Sports Concept is conceived around a front-wheel drive, small car platform and is powered by a Honda IMA 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid system driving through a CVT transmission. It explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

The aerodynamic design is characterised by curvaceous and contoured surfaces contrasting with sharp folded edges. The short front and rear overhangs, together with wheelarches that wrap tightly around large wheels, further enhance the dramatic looks of this sports coupe. An accentuated, arrow-like nose features a full width air intake with Civic family overtones. This sweeps forward into a distinct protruding centre section complete with H logo.

The Concept models fluid lines are created by a steeply raked windscreen which extends back above the occupants heads where it meets a one piece glass roof. This in turn flows rearwards to give the car its fastback styling, terminating in a distinctive and futuristic 3D floating glass design a concave element which forms an additional vertical window. At its base, further distinction is provided by a floating LED tail light unit that stretches across the full width of the car. At its centre, the glass panel extends downwards and contains an illuminated Small Hybrid Sports name plate.

The Hybrid Sports Concept is equipped with 165/60 section tyres mounted on 20-inch distinctive rims. Their dimension supports low rolling resistance without compromising sporty driving.

Compact external dimensions lend themselves to nimble, agile performance on the road and help to ensure a good power to weight ratio. 4000 mm in length, 1270 mm tall and 1760 mm wide, and the 2350 mm wheelbase, in conjunction with a sports suspension, delivers stable and predictable handling characteristics.

The body is particularly aerodynamically efficient and compact. Rear-facing digital cameras take the place of conventional door mirrors.

SOURCE: Honda

HONDA AT THE 2007 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

Honda's stand at this year's Geneva motor show is focused around two themes that represent the true spirit of Honda – its advanced technology and its sporting heritage. Linking both is an exciting new concept car developed entirely in Europe, the Small Hybrid Sports Concept which is making its world premiere. It is joined by the latest, fully driveable FCX Concept fuel cell car and the brand new RA107.

The Show takes place against the backdrop of a particularly vibrant period for Honda, with its European operations currently enjoying record sales – at just under 310,000 units, 2006 saw an 8 per cent increase, setting a record for the company for a third consecutive year. Honda expects sales of approximately 350,000 units during 2007, up 13 per cent, with a full contribution from the brand new CR-V as well as the completed Civic line-up including the exciting Type R to be launched during the spring.

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept blends sports performance and low emissions

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, making its world debut in Europe, represents Honda's proposal for a future hybrid model. The Concept demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced hybrid technology and fun-to-drive sports car characteristics featuring the IMA petrol/electric hybrid system driving through the front wheels. It explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

The striking two door sports coupe features short front and rear overhangs, an accentuated, arrow-like nose and a one-piece glass roof which terminates in a concave full width glass element forming an additional vertical window.

The Hybrid Sports Concept is equipped with 165/60 section tyres mounted on 20-inch distinctive rims. Their dimension supports low rolling resistance without compromising sporty driving.

Compact external dimensions lend themselves to nimble, agile performance on the road and help to ensure a good power to weight ratio, while a 2350 mm wheelbase in conjunction with a sports suspension, delivers stable and predictable handling characteristics.

The Small Hybrid Sports Concept has been developed as a design study model by the design studio at Honda R&D Europe based in Offenbach, Germany.

SOURCE: Honda