We have information on the Honda CR-Z sportsy hybrid coupe production version, as well as the expected release dates in 2010.
Takanobu Ito, Honda CEO, has confirmed that the Honda CR-Z would be available in 2010. This February will see the product rollout in Japan, with a larger release in Europe and North America.
According to American Honda Motor Co.’s press release, although the Japanese version was shown with a rear seat, the American version will have a two-seater. The Honda Insight’s design was inspired by the concept of “low, quick, and wide”. The CR-Z Concept has sportier lines.
The availability of the Japanese and European versions in a two-seater configuration is unknown. According to the statement, the North American market debut will occur in the “second halves of 2010”.
Ito stated that a production automobile based upon the CR-Z Concept 2009 will be launched. The CR-Z Concept 2009 hybrid is powered by a 1.5-liter petrol i-VTEC motor and the IMA “highly effective Honda hybrid system”. It is claimed to be the first hybrid in the world with a six speed manual transmission.
Next January, the NAIAS Detroit will display the production model of Honda CR-Z 2010.