Honda discovers retro-green

摘要

Honda's modern CRX, the production-ready CR-Z concept, took center stage at the 2009 Tokyo motor show. The two-seater combines a 1.5-liter four with Honda's IMA hybrid assist system, channeled through a six-speed manual. It goes on sale in Japan in February and in the U.S. later in 2010. Look for quick (for a hybrid) getaways and an expected 32-35 mpg, down from a combined 41-mpg EPA in the U.S. for the 1.3-liter/hybrid Insight four-door hatchback.rnJapan's number-two automaker also displayed the electric-powered EV-Cub motorbike concept, designed to recall its first successful product in NorthrnAmerica ("you meet the nicest people on a Honda"). Its EV-N compact commuter features a solar-cell roof, interchangeable seat fabrics, and a Segway-like electric unicycle that stores in the passenger door. Styling is an update of the late-1960s N360, which was imported to the U.S. in small numbers with 600cc engines. Its line of electrics is part of Honda's Electric Mobility Loop, which proposes generating its own electricity, and hydrogen via home recharging systems, to eliminate upstream CO2 emissions. (Go to motortrend.com for full coverage of the Tokyo motor show.)