What would it take for a Honda hybrid to challenge the Prius?
The 2009 Toyota Prius?In 2009 Honda is going to launch a new hybrid vehicle, one that Honda hopes will sell 200,000 units. That's a huge improvement compared to Honda's top selling hybrid, the Honda Civic hybrid. Additionally, it would make the new Honda hybrid as popular as the Toyota Prius.
So, how might Honda accomplish such a monumental task? Read more....
Labels: Chevy Volt electric vehicle concept, honda civic hybrid, Hybrid Vehicles, toyota prius
posted by Dahcredyns at
2:13 AM
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In 2009 Honda is going to launch a new hybrid vehicle, one that Honda hopes will sell 200,000 units. That's a huge improvement compared to Honda's top selling hybrid, the Honda Civic hybrid. Additionally, it would make the new Honda hybrid as popular as the Toyota Prius.
So, how might Honda accomplish such a monumental task?
At this point in time, Honda has only alluded to cost. So, would being cheaper than the Prius be enough to match the success of the Prius?
Probably not, however, a smartly unique Honda hybrid, offering fuel economy as efficient as the Prius at a cheaper cost would probably do the trick. In fact, I think there are many out there whom would love a unique hybrid option to the Prius, aside from those that just prefer the Honda brand or Honda styling. Besides, it's a way for the kids to be different, and sometimes the kids just have to be different.
Still, it won't be that easy. We don't quite yet know what to make of Toyota's Third Generation Hybrid Synergy Drive, and what effect this new hybrid drive will have on the Toyota Prius, for example. If the new hybrid drive can make Toyota's hybrid cars more fuel efficient and cheaper, Honda's plans will not be so easy to achieve.
Additionally, there might be Prius-derivatives available when the new Honda goes on sale. One such rumored idea is a smaller Toyota Prius that would be more fuel efficient and cheaper than today's Prius - another potential kink in Honda's hybrid dreams.
More important, with Honda seriously ramping up its hybrid efforts as GM strives for the revolutionary Chevy Volt, Toyota has to know that its position of hybrid supremacy is very tenuous. Therefore, despite the rumors of lithium problems and delays, I still expect great things from Toyota's Third Generation Hybrid Drive.
And, in the end, that will be great for hybrid fans and consumers. We'll have real competition, which will lead to better technology, better prices and more choices.
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