Honda will not launch a
hybrid version of its next-generation Accord sedan when the revamped model goes on sale in the second half of the year. According to the
Nihon Keizai Shimbun, Honda will instead promote a new range of petrol-electric hybrid versions of the new Civic and another subcompact model currently in development.
Under a new program, Honda’s midsize and large vehicles, including the next Accord, will feature a new clean-diesel powertrain that’s scheduled for introduction by 2009.
Last month, we reported that Honda was working on an affordable, high-volume model that would be hybrid only, as well as a new hybrid sports coupe for launch in 2009. The senior vice president of Honda Motor Europe, Ken Keir, told reporters from
Automotive News that the entry-level hybrid will be a family-targeted model and be offered to worldwide markets for around $25,000.
In early May, Honda also announced that it would launch a hydrogen fuel-cell sedan next year to be based on its four-door FCX Concept car. It will be very interesting to see if Honda manages to live up to its bold claims, but we for one welcome the introduction of a cleaner lineup.
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By biturbo Posted: 6/4/2007 8:46am PDT
Honda knows what they are doing.
By Stewie Posted: 6/4/2007 12:33pm PDT
By Gus Posted: 6/4/2007 1:28pm PDT
Toyota realized this and made the Prius stand out.
The only problem, of course, is that with the extra $5k or so it costs to buy a Prius over a similar sized Corolla, it takes about 100,000 miles before realizing any monetary savings, and by then the battery packs might need changed out.
A silly concept. Just bring on the ultra clean, high pressure turbodiesels from Europe please!
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