Honda has released the first official images of the Prius-fighting Honda Insight, which is due to launch in the New Year at the Detroit Motor Show, and be in UK Car showrooms in the Spring of 2009.
Honda has been sceptical about the future of the Hybrid/Electric car, and has expressed the view that it believes the long term future lies in Hydrogen powered EVs, rather than EVs per se. But this is a sensible move by Honda to take away sales from the Toyota Prius.
The Honda Insight - Due in UK Car Showrooms in Spring 2009
Honda is thinking big with the Insight, and is targeting global sales of 200,000 – an ambitious target. It will feature something called ‘Ecological Drive Assist System’ which it seems aims to give the best balance between power and economy from the electric-assisted petrol engine. Normal running will primarily use the petrol engine, with the electric motor kicking in when needed, for example when overtaking .
The 5-door hatchback Insight is coming in at a price point that will undercut the Prius, by around £2k. The fuel cell arrangement is under the floor, which Honda claims will give the car more feel and better handling.
Honda obviously mean business with this car. And who can blame them. Toyota has proved the market exists, and Honda are being sensible by following on. But their real way forward is undoubtedly the Hydrogen Fuel Cell they recently revealed in the FCX.
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