TOKYO — Honda Motor, responding to increased demand in the home market for hybrid vehicles, confirmed it will begin selling the new CR-Z sporty hybrid in Japan in February 2010 and will launch the Fit Hybrid by the end of 2010.
American Honda Motor spokesman Chuck Schifsky told IL, "We can confirm that the CR-Z will go on sale in the U.S. in 2010," but added, "We are not ready to announce any plans for the sale of the Fit Hybrid in regions outside of Japan."
The addition of the CR-Z and the Fit Hybrid will swell Honda's hybrid portfolio to four models, including the Civic Hybrid, by the end of next year. All four use Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA).
The company also is developing a new hybrid system for larger vehicles that will employ a gasoline engine and twin electric motors.
The CR-Z debuted as a concept at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show. The company said it will announce on-sale dates for Europe later this year.
In addition, Honda said it has begun building the popular Insight hybrid on a second assembly line at its Suzuka plant in Japan. The company said demand in Japan for the Insight "has exceeded all expectations."
Inside Line says: The buzz from Tokyo suggests the Fit Hybrid may be priced even lower than the Insight. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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