Originally planned to debut at the Paris auto show, Honda is now planning on teasing us with some pictures of their new hybrid-specific sedan on September 4. It should be noted, as per recent Honda debuts, that what will be shown will be a close-to-production "concept," and not the finished product. Don't you just loved to be toyed with this way?
Whatever. We'll take it. The actual concept--in 3-D, will be on display at the Paris show.
John Kingston, Honda UK environmental manager, said the new model was critical to Honda's future. "It is a very important car for Honda and our future direction," he said, adding: "This is a car that will change customer perception of hybrids."
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estreka says:
06:14 AM, 09/ 3/08
I can't see the article. I'd imagine not, but is there anything about production plans? Price? Release date?
Bob Holland says:
06:53 AM, 09/ 3/08
It goes on sale in Spring 2009.
It will be built on an all-new platform, a five-door hatchback. The styling is based on the FCX Clarity fuel cell car.
Honda claims it will be cheaper than the Prius.
orangutan says:
08:19 AM, 09/ 3/08
Wait, what? I thought it a stretched-out Fit platform? That's what I've read elsewhere.
ateixeira says:
08:44 AM, 09/ 3/08
Honda's going to launch this slowly to milk it for as much press as possible.
bepperb says:
09:33 AM, 09/ 3/08
I thinkt he volt currently holds the trophy for that one, ateixeira. I doubt Honda will take it back with this, it's supposed to be on sale in April of next year.
hondacura4 says:
02:50 PM, 09/ 3/08
This will be a dedicated hybrid but Im unsure of the chassis. It will be cheaper (Im hearing around $20K) than the current Prius and Hondas own Civic Hybid. There will be a Fit Hybrid and the upcoming CR-Z will have a Hybrid offering as well.
"Honda's going to launch this slowly to milk it for as much press as possible."
I dont think Honda will go that route or as far as GM has with the Volt as Honda is usually pretty tight about future product details. Since this car will be a significant product to the market and to Honda I think Honda will be even more agressive with keeping detailed information hidden.