The eyes of the bulk of the motoring world may have been focused on Frankfurt in September, but Japanese manufacturers appear to have targeted Tokyo for a series of significant new concepts.
Honda is the latest name on the list – it will reveal the CR-Z Concept 2009, the most recent prototype of a compact sports car using Honda’s IMA technology, at the show. The first version of the CR-Z appeared in Tokyo back in 2007 and now the aim is to put the vehicle on sale by 2010 when it will be the first series-produced sports hybrid car from a major manufacturer. It will also be the first petrol-electric vehicle to use a six-speed manual transmission.
Two more Honda concepts will also make their debut at the event.
Firstly, the EV-N battery electric vehicle, which is inspired by the N360 micro car that was launched in the 1960s, will make an appearance. This small, four-seat car includes solar panels on the roof that can be used to charge the on-board battery.
Also making its debut will be the Skydeck concept – a six-seat hybrid MPV. Still a design study, Honda hopes to position the vehicle as an example of how IMA technology can be placed in a number of different cars to fulfil different needs.
Honda will have plenty of other exciting green vehicles on display at the show including the FCX Clarity, its fuel cell electric vehicle; a new EV-Cub electric motorcycle; and the new U3-X, a one-wheel personal mobility device