Honda CR-Z

Here is the latest from Green Car Congress. The production version of the media's favorite Honda FCX will be presented at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show.

That can only mean one thing. The fuel cell-powered vehicle is poised to go from concept to retail sometime in 2008. The news comes straight from Honda President and CEO Takeo Fukui, who made the announcement at the Tokyo Auto Show today.

Of course, the main focus of the automaker's global market ambitions will be on its continued commitment to hybrid technologies. According to the report, "Honda expects hybrids to account for 10% of its global vehicle sales by 2010--about 5 times the current level."

The most vivid of examples of that development would be Honda CR-Z (above). Scheduled to be released in 2009, the sports coupe is powered by Honda's trusted gas-electric IMA hybrid system and signifies the automaker's attempt to improve on the rather unsuccessful Honda Insight.

‘CR-Z’ stands for ‘Compact Renaissance Zero’-an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals.

This design research model of a lightweight hybrid sports car features advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle’s environmental footprint.

Exterior design

Designed to be ‘Futuristic and Dynamic’, the CR-Z combines powerful performance in a compact form with a futuristic image. For its frontal view, an over-sized grill with a high-performance look is offset by openings on each side that lighten the overall feel. In the rear, tube-shaped rear combination lamps ensure better rearward visibility. Design details emphasizing the CR-Z’s advanced image include door mirrors that provide high visibility in a stylish form, LED headlights patterned after luminous bodies to convey a sharp impression, and jauntyfin-shaped.

General
Country Of Origin		Japan
Year Of Introduction		2007
Base Price When New		N.A
Miles Per Gallon		N.A
Body Type		N.A
Curb Weight		N.A
Powertrain Layout		Mid-Engine/RWD
Transmission		6-Speed Sequential
Engine
Configuration		V6
Displacement		N.A
Power		300 bhp
Torque		N.A
BHP / Liter		N.A
BHP / Weight		N.A
Redline		N.A
Performance
Top Speed		N.A
0 - 62 mph		N.A
0 - 100 mph		N.A
0 - 250 mile		N.A
Skidpad		N.A
Braking, 62-0 mph		N.A
Slalom Speed		N.A