Honda will increase the availability
of the Insight gasoline-electric hybrid car -- the first and only
hybrid car sold in America -- by more than 50 percent to about 6,500
vehicles in the 2000 calendar year, American Honda Motor Company,
Inc., announced today The Insight is the most fuel-efficient vehicle
sold in America with EPA mileage ratings of 61 mpg city and 70 mpg
highway. In addition to its world's best gasoline fuel economy
ratings, the Insight also meets California's stringent Ultra Low
Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standards. The Insight went on sale in late
December with a sales target of 4,000 vehicles for the 2000 calendar
year. Initial demand, sparked by interest in the advanced hybrid
technology and the Insight's high fuel efficiency, has created
waiting lists for the sleek two-seat coupe. "Consumer interest and
demand has far exceeded our expectations," said Tom Elliott, American
Honda executive vice president. "Some buyers want to be the first on
their block with the new hybrid technology. Others are looking to
improve their fuel economy and make an positive impact on
environment." The Insight has been the recipient of numerous awards,
including the Sierra Club's first-ever award for Excellence in
Environmental Engineering and Automobile Magazine's "Technology of
the Year" award. "The Insight is an example of Honda's long-standing
commitment to bringing advanced environmental technology to the
marketplace," Elliott said. "Consumer reaction to the Insight and its
hybrid powertrain is an indication of their acceptance of this
technology." The heart of the Insight's technology showcase is the
Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system featuring a fuel-efficient
3-cylinder, 1-liter engine that combines with a powerful, ultra-thin
electric motor for added performance when needed. The electric motor
is powered by advanced nickel-metal hydride battery pack. The IMA
system also automatically recharges the battery pack, using energy
generated during braking. As a result, the Insight does not require
an outside source for recharging and never needs to be plugged in.