New Honda hybrid looks like a Prius?
A smaller version of the Clarity FCX?AutoWeek has a number of pictures of what they are describing as a new Honda hybrid vehicle, which is shaped much like the Toyota Prius. This has caused some to speculate that its the third generation Prius, but I don't agree since this vehicle does not appear to be larger than the current Prius, which is to grow a bit in length and width compared to the current version.
Some on AutoWeek are already complaining that if this vehicle is Honda's new hybrid, their design team should be fired. Still, having seen the proportions of the latest Chevy Volt, which is starting to ever more resemble the body styling of the Prius, it seems probable that aerodynamics are driving design, and it just so happens the Prius is quite aerodynamic.
Anyway, call me overly practical, but I'm more focused on fuel economy and price than I am design, and if Honda's new hybrid vehicle resembles the Prius, but provides better fuel economy at a cheaper price, I'm still interested.
Labels: Chevy Volt electric vehicle concept, Honda, Hybrid Vehicles, toyota prius
posted by Dahcredyns at
8:14 AM
11 Comments:
I agree w/the blogger: the similarity in design is probably just due to the similarity in design parameters (fwd, 4 doors, 5 passengers, hatchback) and aerodynamics rather than imitation.
There was a VW design exercise/prototype way back in the early 1980s that looked just like the 2nd gen Prius (and had the same basic design parameters). I'm sure a little searching on the web could turn up some pics for an interesting comparison.
Interesting news on the VW prototype.
Back in April I was at GM's wind tunnel and I saw a scaled down version of the most current Volt and I was surprised at how much its evolving to look like the Prius. Currently, aerodynamics are the key to the Volt. I'm sure GM will do everything possible to limit the similarities, but, ultimately, the Prius looks the way it looks because of aerodynamics not aesthetics.
I am happy than form is following function when it comes to increasing fuel efficiency. I've read articles where the industry types make fun of consumers for buying Prius only because they LOOK like hybrids. I disagree with those industry types. It's not that Prius' looks are popular just as a way to show off that you've bought a hybrid. What is more important is that Prius' looks are proof that the Prius' is FULLY OPTIMIZED for efficiency.
Consumers can tell just by looking at the Prius that Toyota did everything they could to make the Prius efficient and environmentally friendly. As nice as the Civic and Accord look, it is obvious on it's face, so to speak, that Honda did not design them to maximize efficiency and environmental friendliness. Sticking a hybrid in a standard body just screams COMPROMISE, and those consumers most concerned with the environment when choosing a Hybrid correctly ask themselves, "What other compromises did Honda make in term of the environment?"
So, frankly, I have little patience for industry types who dismiss the popularity of the Prius and chalk it up to consumer shallowness based on looks. In my book, the Prius' looks correctly signaled to consumers that Toyota made as few compromises as possible to create a more environmentally friendly car.
People are having a field day with Honda's sincere flattery of the Prius by imitating its form, unintentionally or not. :-D
I think one of the other blogs (VTec Temple I think it was) nicknamed Honda's Prius-killer "2010 Honda Insight."
The wags over at Prius called it the Honda Hindsight, LOL!
That's pretty funny, thanks for the laugh.
Grill design says its a Honda.
Design is probably due to aerodynamics and space. My family had a much easier transition from a minivan to our Prius because of the room/flexibility of the hatch. Can't do many of the routine family outings the way the Civic sedan is designed vs the Prius hatchback.
In terms of aerodynamics dictating the shape, check out this article on a 2006 Mercedes concept, the Boxfish:
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2005/06/daimlerchrysler.php
I don't think Prius haters and doubters realize just how spacious the Prius feels. It is just a superbly designed car in my humble opinion - so functional. Can't wait to check this out on the third gen which is to be a bit bigger.
Thanks for the link.
Actually, the picture you showed of the new Honda Civic Hybrid looks more like their fuel cell "Clarity" which is, in my view, and extremely attractive design and a welcome break from the current design for the Accord, which I feel is too Acura like and very busy.
That is the Clarity. I used that because I don't have rights to the other images and because the new Honda hybrid was supposed to utilize design cues from the Clarity.
I also like the design and the car.
Say what you will, the Prius is the best thing going for the moment, success breeds duplication.
i don't disagree with that, but it the similarly is still largely driven by aerodynamics.
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