Global Small Hybrid from Honda

[joe1347]

Just ran across this short blurb on Honda's Global Small Hybrid which looks like it may be available early next year.

Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - Spring Cleaning Part 2: What's in store at Honda for the 2009 Model Year

Global Small Hybrid This car is on track for its global introduction in early calendar year 2009. . . a fairly recent story by Automotive News indicates that the car's styling will resemble that of the FCX Clarity, . . . . the new global hybrid model will feature a powertrain based heavily upon the Civic Hybrid's IMA system, but it will feature a newly designed electric motor and engine control unit, which will pare down the packaging size as well as reduce mass. Honda has also taken the decision to use Nickel Metal Hydrid (NiMH) batteries (as opposed to newer Li-Ion technology) . ... ...

Summary: Honda hopes to deliver the most affordable hybrid vehicle yet.
Watch For: Possible introduction of the concept in October at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. We expect the concept to make its US debut at the 2008 Los Angeles International Auto Show in late November.
Available: Early 2009

[hschuck]

From the same link........."
FCX Clarity Introduced at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show, the world's first mass-produced fuel cell vehicle will begin finding its way into customer's garages within a matter of weeks. "

Looks like the article is a mix of fact and fantasy with the emphasis on fantasy.

[joe1347]

Originally Posted by hschuck

From the same link........."
FCX Clarity Introduced at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show, the world's first mass-produced fuel cell vehicle will begin finding its way into customer's garages within a matter of weeks. "

Looks like the article is a mix of fact and fantasy with the emphasis on fantasy.

Maybe it's fantasy, but since vtec.net is one of the more active Honda forums, they seem to be tuned in to what Honda is typically up to. It also makes sense that sooner or later, Honda (unlike GM or Ford) will finally get around to selling a car comparable (perceived) to the Prius. So why not next year? A little bit of real competition from Honda certainly couldn't hurt given the likely high initial demand for the Gen III Prius next spring (maybe?). Otherwise, Toyota dealers will be marking them up a few thousand combined with a 6 month waiting list.

[jrose]

Competition is great for all -especially the consumer!

And if GM is really going to deliver the Volt (?) things will really be interesting.

[Spectra]

The Honda Global looks just like all images we've been seeing of the Prius III.

Imitation = Flattery

[skruse]

Not Prius imitation but fusiform - the shape an object takes in a fluid (air) to offer the least amount of resistance. I expect more vehicles to take on a fusiform shape as efficiency and fuel economy become more important.

[rfruth]

Corse Honda started the HEV craze with the Insight, their not going to hand over the hybrid crown without a fight (yea!)

[Tideland Prius]

Originally Posted by rfruth

Corse Honda started the HEV craze with the Insight, their not going to hand over the hybrid crown without a fight (yea!)

huh? The Prius came out in Dec 1997. The Insight came out in 1999.

[nerfer]

Originally Posted by hschuck

From the same link........."
FCX Clarity Introduced at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show, the world's first mass-produced fuel cell vehicle will begin finding its way into customer's garages within a matter of weeks. "

Looks like the article is a mix of fact and fantasy with the emphasis on fantasy.

If you're talking about the fuel cell vehicle part, they actually will be selling a fully functional hydrogen car to the general public (this summer I think). Mass-produced is another story, I read at EVWorld.com its price will "make the Tesla look like a Kia". Plus only California has enough hydrogen fueling stations to make it even feasible.

Originally Posted by Tideland Prius

huh? The Prius came out in Dec 1997. The Insight came out in 1999.

In the U.S. the Insight was the first hybrid sold, but as you mention, globally Toyota was the first. Honda is definitely the #2 player in the hybrid market. Bunch of companies vying for #3, but #1 and #2 spots are pretty clear right now.

[jhinton]

Originally Posted by Spectra

The Honda Global looks just like all images we've been seeing of the Prius III.

Imitation = Flattery

The OP's picture is of the Honda FCX not the global hybrid. Honda will be leasing the FCX in southern California markets for $600 a month. It is a 3 year lease with no option to buy.

Honda FCX Clarity - Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle - Official Web Site