Honda sees a green and harmonious future ahead, and it’s no surprise that the brand’s press briefing began with Asimo. The lovable bipedal humanoid robot took the stage, welcomed guests and introduced the President and CEO, Takanobu Ito.

“Since Honda’s foundation, creating personal mobility as a means to provide basic transportation for people has been the primary focus of our business,” he said. “At this year’s motor show, we designed our booth to propose Honda’s vision for mobility of the near future.”

Covering the largest floor area of any single brand at the show, the Honda booth combines automobiles, motorcycles, power products and other highlights to present the distinctive world of Honda mobility. With “Creating the never before!” as its theme, the area proposes attractive products that please and amaze its customers.

The first that was presented was the HELLO! (Honda ELectric mobility LOop) Zone. This is a display of integrated products that both produce electricity and consume electricity, making a self-sustaining zero-emission chain. This begins with Honda Soltec CIGS thin film solar panels that collect electricity.
The electricity is used to electrolyze water and separate the hydrogen for fuel cell vehicles. This hydrogen then goes into the FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle.
A fuel cell stack in the vehicle combines the hydrogen with oxygen to power the vehicle. Its only emission is water.

The electricity produced by the solar cells can also go on to power any of Honda’s four concept electric vehicles. The first is the EV-N – a compact electric city commuter vehicle that seats four and is no longer than 2.86 meters. It features solar panels in its roof, 100 percent recyclable seat material, and lights in the front grille that communicate to other cars and pedestrians. Best of all, the EV-N has built in charging units for another HELLO vehicle, the U3-X.

The U3-X is a one-wheel electric personal mobility device. A seat and foot pedals flip out from it to allow a person to ride on top. It integrates balance technology from the ASIMO robot that allows the rider to maintain an upright position while moving and turning in all directions, including sideways.

The EV-Cub is an electric rendition of Honda’s famous Super Cub motorcycle. The all-electric bike hides its battery at the center of an aluminum die-cast frame which brings power to the two motors in each wheel.

The last vehicle is the EV-MONPAL. It is an electric scooter with a U-shaped pillar for enhanced rider protection. It can communicate with the EV-Cub and EV-N and even ask if it is safe to cross a street to reach a vehicle.

Completing the HELLO chain is the loop communication device. Shaped like a U3-X, it can help users locate their vehicle, how much charge remains, when it is safe to cross a street to reach a vehicle, and even start the vehicles remotely. It will even guide the pedestrian with light, vibrations and its liquid crystal display.

Another notable vehicle is the CR-Z concept. It deviates from typical hybrids with its more sporty approach. The sport coupe boasts of a low profile, short wheelbase and broad stance. An airplane cockpit style interior groups displays and controls together for a visually intuitive interface. The powertrain is also geared towards guiltless enjoyment with a 1.5 liter i-VTEC engine and Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system and a world’s first six-speed manual on a hybrid.

As for the style mavens, their needs are met by the Skydeck concept. The six-seater MPV hybrid features a low floor interior with seats that seemingly float in mid air. They are connected, of course, to the central tunnel where the hybrid system is hidden. The first and second row seats are independently adjustable. Second row seats can slide under the first row while third row seats fold flat for a large cargo area. Scissor front doors and rear sliding doors grant easy access.

Two hybrids more likely to hit the street soon are the Honda Insight and Civic hybrid. The car is powered by a 1.3 liter i-VTEC engine, electric motor and the IMA system. This features Variable Cylinder Management which eliminates the pumping action of the cylinders during deceleration and when the vehicle is idling. Additional systems like the ECON mode button automatically engages settings in the engine and air conditioner that favor fuel economy.

It also makes a game out of fuel economy to further encourage fuel-saving driving. The Eco Score function grows leaves on its display based on the cumulative score for fuel-efficient driving. The Insight boasts average economy of 30km/L based on Japanese Transport and Tourism Ministry calculations.

The Civic hybrid is powered by 1.3-liter 3-stage i-VTEC engine that has three stages of variable valve timing. It is paired with an electric motor and the IMA hybrid system that are both more efficient and compact.

The Civic Hybrid looks very much like a typical Civic save for the more aerodynamic wheels and small Hybrid decals. It is expected to achieve fuel economy of 31 km/L.

“Since the company’s foundation,” said Ito. “Honda associates have always dedicated themselves to dreaming up ideas to make life more convenient and enjoyable. As we expressed in our booth concept of 'Creating the never before!' we will continue our R&D efforts to quickly deliver convenient, fun and unique products to our customers in a way only Honda can do.