Honda Insight Hybrid features a lightweight, compact hybrid system that combines exceptional fuel economy (26-30 km/L) with fun-to-drive performance. Photo Credit: HondaFebruary 05, 2009, (Sawf News) - Honda Insight Hybrid features a lightweight, compact hybrid system that combines exceptional fuel economy (26-30 km/L) with fun-to-drive performance.
The Insight features a newly developed hybrid system including a 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine and Honda's proprietary Integrated Motor Assist (IMA). To further support fuel-efficient driving, the Insight features the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist) as standard equipment on all models.
Designed to reduce air flow resistance and enhance fuel efficiency, the aerodynamic body achieves a coefficient of drag of 0.28.
The Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) proprietary hybrid system offers exceptional fuel economy and extremely low emissions. The gasoline engine serves as the main power source while the electric motor provides additional power as needed.
The 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine features Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which controls the idling of all cylinders. The combination of engine and motor offers the consistent responsiveness and acceleration performance one might expect from a 1.5-liter engine.
The ultra-thin DC brushless motor is approximately 22% thinner and approximately 15% lighter than previous-generation technology.
Adjusting to driving conditions and battery charge level, the Power Control Unit (PCU) optimally controls the power assist and electrical regeneration functions of the electric motor.
As compared to previous-generation technology, the modules of the high-output nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery feature a 30% enhancement in both output and durability, allowing for a decrease from 11 modules to 7. As a result, while providing ample output and capacity for the motor, the battery is approximately 31% more compact and approximately 35% lighter than previous-generation technology.
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