Detroit Auto Show: 2010 Honda Insight Hybrid makes its debut
By Andrew C., 30 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
2010 Honda Insight
At long last, all the rumors and conjectures halted at the introduction of the brand new 2010 Honda Insight hybrid today at the Detroit Auto Show which comes with Honda's latest state of the art hybrid technology called Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) and an Ecological Drive Assist System. Having be produced with the most cost-effective methods in the Honda arsenal, the Insight will truly be an affordable green alternative for many. The EPA rating for the vehicle for city driving is 40mpg and 43mpg on the highway. This superb ratings are made possible by an ECON mode that optimizes control of the constantly adaptable automatic transmission (CVT), powerplant and related components.
The new Insight is powered by a 1.3-liter SOHC aluminum-alloy i-VTEC powerplant and CVT, together with the latest of the IMA system. The IMA integrates a 13hp (10kW) electric motor and a compact Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) which recaptures and stores kinetic energy from braking and deceleration and providing more energy for acceleration when required. The system is capable of exclusively utilizing the electric motor in low- to mid-speed driving situations plus the deactivation of the cylinder in a gasoline powerplant during deceleration and to shutdown the engine when it detects the vehicle in full stop.
The insight can reach a range in excess of 400 miles with a full 10.6 gallon fuel tank. Regular features of the new Honda Insight include 60/40 split and fold-down rear seatbacks, a two level digital instrument panel, automatic climate control, electric-powered windows, mirrors and door locks, also a tilting and telescoping steering wheel, a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3, an extra audio input jack and speed-sensitive volume control. The higher version, the EX, comes with alloy wheels, cruise control, an audio system that comes with 6 speakers and USB audio interconnectivity, paddles shifters mounted on the steering wheel, satellite navigation and stability control. Being priced lower than the Honda Civic Hybrid, the Insight will be available in US markets by April.
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