It was long known, that a Honda Jazz Hybrid is in the pipeline. What we hear of late is that, Honda will be bringing out two hybrid models next year into the Japanese market - a sportscoupe and the Jazz Hybrid. Both models will set sail to European and Asian markets, but no release schedule has been revealed.
Honda already produces the Civic Hybrid and Insight. With the addition of the new cars, Honda will enhance its lineup of compact hybrid models, which leverage the unique characteristics of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), including compact size, lightweight and high efficiency.
The hybrid Sportscoupe will be based on the CR-Z coupe concept which was showcased at Tokyo Motor show in 2007. Sales is likely to start by February 2010 in the Japanese market. The Jazz Hybrid will follow at the end of that year. The Japanese say that, a new universal hybrid system is under development, which will have the flexibility to be housed even in larger cars, such as the Honda Accord.
Press Release
Honda to Begin Sales of Two More Hybrid Models in 2010TOKYO, Japan, July 13, 2009 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced plans to begin sales in Japan of the CR-Z sporty hybrid model in February 2010 and Fit Hybrid before the end of 2010. By combining these two models with the currently available Insight and Civic Hybrid, Honda will further enhance its lineup of compact hybrid models, which leverage the unique characteristics of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), including compact size, lightweight and high efficiency. In addition, Honda is currently developing a new hybrid system which is intended to be installed on mid- to large-size vehicles.
Honda also announced that, in addition to the No. 1 line at its Suzuka Factory, the production of Insight also began on Suzuka's No. 3 line in mid-June 2009, leveraging Honda's flexible production system. In order to continue contributing to the global effort to reduce CO2 emissions, Honda will continue to focus on research and development of technologies which improve fuel-efficiency and strive to deliver products with improved environmental performance to as many customers as possible by making such products more accessible to all people. The CR-Z concept vehicle made its world debut at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in 2007. The CR-Z sporty hybrid will feature advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle's environmental footprint. |