Honda Insight Hybrid Priced Less Than $19,000

10 December 1999
Honda Insight Hybrid Priced Less Than $19,000
    TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 9 -- The first gasoline-electric
hybrid to go on sale in America will have a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail
Price (MSRP) of $18,880 when it reaches dealerships December 15, American
Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.
    The Insight earned the EPA's top mileage rating ever, 61 mpg in the city
and 70 mpg on the highway.  In addition to its outstanding mileage rating, the
Insight also meets California's stringent Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
standards.  The Insight, with factory-installed automatic climate control,
will be priced at $20,080.
    "The Insight is a continuation of Honda's philosophy of making the latest
environmental technology accessible to consumers," said Tom Elliott, executive
vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.  "By pricing the Insight less
than $19,000, it becomes obtainable to a broader range of car buyers."
    The Insight features Honda's Integrated Motor Assist(TM) (IMA) system,
which combines a 1.0-liter, 3-cylinder gasoline engine with electric motor
assist for improved efficiency.  The electric motor is powered by a nick-metal
hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack.  The IMA(TM) system automatically recharges the
battery pack, using energy generated during braking.  As a result, the Insight
does not require an outside source of electric power and never needs to be
plugged in.
    The sporty two-seater incorporates an advanced aerodynamic design and an
aluminum body, over 45 percent lighter than a comparable steel-bodied model,
highlighting the culmination of 40 years of Honda research into lighter, more
fuel-efficient and cleaner-burning vehicle technologies.
    The Insight also features a full complement of comfort and convenience
features including variable assist electric power steering, power windows,
mirrors and door locks, AM/FM stereo-cassette player and full electronic
instrument display.
    In addition to meeting current safety standards, the Insight meets 2003
safety standards for side impact and head-injury protection.  Other safety
features include anti-lock brakes (ABS) brakes, an Immobilizer theft-deterrent
system and remote keyless entry.
    "This year alone, two out of every three Hondas sold in the U.S. will be
equipped with advanced low-emissions technology," said Elliott.  "Honda is
committed to the environment and the continuing development of cleaner and
more fuel-efficient vehicle."