25 Years of Honda Hybrid Vehicles - Honda Insight (1999)

The Honda Insight is a true pioneer: it was the first petrol-electric hybrid vehicle to hit the European market. With its state-of-the-art drive, low curb weight, and exceptional aerodynamic design, the two-seater coupe with a combined consumption of 3.4 l/100 km was one of the most fuel-efficient models in the world. Responsible for the leading fuel efficiency and low emissions was the groundbreaking Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid drive - and the equally light and stable aluminum body, which had one of the lowest drag coefficients of all production vehicles. At the heart of the Insight was one of the lightest 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol engines ever built, with advanced lean-burn technology, low-friction components, and lightweight materials. Directly connected to the crankshaft of the combustion engine was an ultra-thin (60 mm) brushless DC motor, powered by a 20-kilogram 144-volt nickel-metal hydride battery (Ni-MH) located under the trunk floor. Also part of the drive was a manual five-speed gearbox. During acceleration, the electric motor supported the combustion engine, boosting its performance to the level of a 1.5-liter petrol engine, while during deceleration, it acted as a generator to recharge the battery. Additionally, a start-stop system was used that shut off the engine when the Insight came to a stop and automatically restarted it when the first gear was engaged.