Giant automaker Honda has reached a new milestone: 25 years of hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) sales. The company introduced its first hybrid, the Honda Insight, to North America 1999. Since then, over 25% of Honda’s U.S. sales come from its HEV lineups.
The Honda Insight
Ahead of its time, the Insight was built with lightweight aluminum, offering excellent aerodynamics, and incorporated the company’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system. What’s more, its sleek two-seater design made it quite snazzy, too.
Overall, the car was fuel-efficient and offered Honda’s signature reliability and user-friendly and enjoyable driving experience. The company stopped making the original Insight in 2006, but its innovative design paved the way for today’s HEVs.
Modern Hybrids
Honda has been smart about its offerings, continuously adapting to consumer needs in relation to performance and affordability, while, at the same time, aligning with the world’s general shift towards more sustainable transport options.
Today, Honda’s HEV lineup includes many of its most popular models, such as the Accord Hybrid, the CR-V Hybrid, and the all-new Civic Hybrid. The CR-V, in particular, was the best-selling HEV in America in 2023.
The New Civic
To celebrate its 25th hybrid vehicle anniversary, Honda is bringing out a new Civic hybrid. The car will feature an efficient powertrain for competitive fuel economy, and plenty of advanced tech, including safety features under Honda’s Sensing suite.
It will also sport a roomy and comfortable interior. This Civic is expected to be available in both sedan and hatchback styles, with the overall goal of appealing to eco-conscious drivers who want a stylish and reliable ride.
Honda’s EVs
While Honda understands the overall hesitation in the adoption of all-electric vehicles (EVs), mainly due to reliability issues and charging options and availability, the company knows that it’s the way forward. So, along with its HEVs—have served as an important bridge to ease the transition to full electrification—Honda is also working on expanding its EV lineup.
The company recently introduced the all-electric Honda Prologue SUV, and plans to roll out more EV models by 2025, produced at its new EV Hub in Ohio. By 2040, Honda aims for all its vehicle sales to be battery-electric or fuel-cell electric.
A History of Honda HEVs
Here’s a list of Honda’s HEV offerings over the years.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/GEORGE STAMATIS
