Honda, a pioneer in hybrid technology, has reached a significant milestone, breaking the one million hybrids mark at the end of September.
Thirteen years after sales began in Japan of Honda’s first hybrid model, the Insight, the carmaker hits the all-important 1 million sales.
The hybrid car has come a long way since that first model was launched in Japan in 1999, with an at-the-time record breaking of 35km/litre fuel economy rating. The Japanese firm’s unique IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) hybrid system is still at the heart of the carmaker’s hybrid programme, but now the hybrid line-up now consists of eight models on sale in approximately 50 countries around the world including 3 hybrid models in Europe (Insight, CR-Z and Jazz Hybrid).
Honda says it believes the hybrid is an essential step on from the internal combustion engine, towards fully electric vehicles and expects the technology will play an increasingly important role.
The firm is not resting on its laurels as it reaches this important milestone. It is advancing its current one-motor IMA hybrid system with a goal of achieving the number one fuel economy among all hybrid vehicles. In addition, Honda will introduce a new two-motor hybrid system for mid-size models and an efficient, high-output three-motor hybrid system, the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All Wheel Drive), which will deliver excellent road handling as well as economy. This system will be applied to the new NSX which will be sold in Europe.
Under its global environmental slogan of ‘Blue Skies for Our Children,' Honda intends to continue to develop and sell hybrid vehicles with a plan to realise a low carbon society.
Faye has been writing about cars and environmental issues since 2007. A suspected eco-warrior working on the corporate inside, Faye mainly likes the weird, quirky vehicles that show a distinct environmental advantage. Her ideal car has enough room to fit a bale of hay in the boot. When not working, she likes nothing better than to head out on her bicycle and explore the countryside.
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