By combining these two models with the currently available Insight and Civic Hybrid, Honda will further enhance its lineup of compact hybrid models and swell Honda's hybrid portfolio to four models. More importantly, this helps it become one of the ‘greenest’ automakers in the world and makes Honda’s plan to increase hybrid production to 500,000 units per year by 2012 achievable.
Both cars will be powered by Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), also found in the Insight and Civic hybrids. In the case of the Insight, the IMA incorporates a 13hp (10kW) electric motor and a compact Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) – recapturing and storing kinetic energy from vehicle braking and deceleration and supplying additional power for acceleration when needed.
The CR-Z will be heavily influenced by its concept car which was debuted at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. The CR-Z, promising eco-conscious buyers a car that is both stylish and fun to drive, is expected to make its world debut in production trim at this October’s Tokyo Motor Show.
The CR-Z is currently being designed and engineered in Europe, its expected largest market, but will likely be sold as a global vehicle. And it is rumored to feature either a 140 horsepower, 1.8-liter engine, or a larger, more powerful 2.5-liter unit from its hybrid drivetrain.
Not much is known about the Fit hybrid but previous reports have suggested that it could cost about ¥1.5 million (approximately $15,800) when it goes on sale late next year.
As for other market, American Honda Motor spokesman Chuck Schifsky said, "We can confirm that the CR-Z will go on sale in the U.S. in 2010," but added, "We are not ready to announce any plans for the sale of the Fit Hybrid in regions outside of Japan."
Honda also confirmed they are working on a new hybrid powertrain for larger-sized vehicles, but no release dates have been mentioned yet.
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