2010 Honda CR-Z Hybrid Production Model At Detroit – The Development Of CR-Z

Honda took advantage from the auto show in Detroit and presented the production version of Honda CR-Z, a hybrid for youths and the world’s first manual gearbox hybrid car.

The guys from Honda are willing to change people’s opinion about hybrids and at Detroit in 2010 lunched the first hybrid car, addressed to youths.

So, Honda CR-Z is coupe with a 2 +2 configuration, with a typical Honda design, which wants to show the world that it doesn’t make concessions regarding style or driving pleasure. For the first time a parallel hybrid system is combined with a 6-speed manual transmission, perfectly designed for the needs of the driver.

The Hybrid ensemble is made of a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and an electric motor, together developing a power of 124 HP and 128 lb-ft of torque. The main advantage of this propulsion system is unusually flat torque curve with its peak at just 1500 rpm, emphasizing the impression of sportiveness.

2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid

The body shows some common components with the Honda Insight model, but the chassis, THE wheel track and the structure are characteristic to the new hybrid. For CR-Z a forged aluminum alloy was used for the McPherson suspension components, which reduce weight and increase resistance compared with pressed steel elements used for the Insight model.

In terms of design, Honda CR-Z is the first Honda car that comes with the DTRL (Day Time Running Lights) LED position lights, and, together with the European front fog projectors, gives the European CR-Z model a bold image.

High tech character, so popular among the Japanese, is underlined by the interior which was developed based on the CR-Z concept exhibited at the Tokyo Motor Show, which has 3D screens and a central console oriented towards the driver.

We must also add that the car is a sports model the back seats and can only carry not very tall adult on short distances or children on longer trips. The rear seats can be folded in a single motion to increase the luggage space.