Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Honda Celebrates 25 Years Of Hybrid Tech With Prelude Concept's European Debut
Honda is set to showcase the Prelude Concept at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, celebrating 25 years of hybrid performance. The production model will offer a blend of driving dynamics and fuel efficiency. This hybrid electric Prelude will join Honda's fully electrified mainstream line-up in Europe.
The Prelude Concept, first revealed at the Japan Mobility Show, will make its European debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed from 11-14 July. This model promises a balance of driving pleasure and efficiency, reflecting Honda's commitment to electrification in a stylish package.
Tomoyuki Yamagami, Chief Engineer and Large Project Leader at Honda Motor, stated: "The new Prelude not only marks the latest chapter in our ever-evolving hybrid story, it is also the product of 25 years of pioneering hybrid research and development. Ensuring this model maintains its ‘sporty’ DNA by perfectly blending the efficiency and environmental advantages of electrified driving with an exhilarating experience behind the wheel – liberating users from their daily lives with increased driving pleasure."
The original Prelude debuted in Europe 45 years ago, showcasing Honda’s advanced technology for five generations until 2001. The new model aims to continue this legacy with a mix of style and sophistication alongside a hybrid powertrain.
The name "Prelude" signifies an introductory piece of music, positioning the car as a precursor to future models embodying Honda’s sports performance commitment. This aligns with Honda’s goal to bring the "joy of driving" to European customers.
25 Years of Hybrid Innovation
This year marks a quarter-century since Honda introduced its first mass-produced hybrid model in Europe, the Insight coupe, in 1999. Since then, Honda has led in developing petrol-electric powertrain technology across various models.
Following the Insight, Honda launched the Civic IMA in 2003, featuring a CVT paired with a 1.3-litre i-VTEC engine and a 20-horsepower electric motor for better fuel efficiency. In 2010, the CR-Z combined Honda’s IMA parallel hybrid system with a 1.5-litre petrol engine and manual transmission for an engaging yet economical drive.
Advancements in Hybrid Technology
The Jazz Hybrid introduced in 2011 continued offering practicality with features like "Magic Seats" and ample boot space due to its compact hybrid system. The NSX arrived five years later with an advanced all-wheel-drive hybrid powertrain for supercars.
Today, Honda’s mainstream automobile range is fully electrified. Models like Jazz, Civic, HR-V, ZR-V, and CR-V come standard with e:HEV powertrains that seamlessly switch between EV, hybrid, and engine drive modes without driver input. These vehicles offer ease-of-use along with competitive efficiency and emissions.
Honda's Broader Impact
Honda (UK) operates as a subsidiary of Honda (Japan), one of the top global brands known for cars, motorcycles, power products, and aviation. It was also the first Japanese automaker to launch a luxury brand—Acura—in 1986.
Since 1959, Honda has been the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer and produces over 14 million internal combustion engines annually. The company has also ventured into artificial intelligence/robotics research since 1986 and aerospace since establishing GE Honda Aero Engines in 2004.
The Prelude Concept's European debut signifies more than just another car launch; it represents decades of innovation and commitment to sustainable mobility solutions by Honda.
Continue with Google