The bicycle: a highly maneuverable, environment-friendly means of transportation that responds to the rider's every whim. The IMAS: a sports car designed to provide that same invigorating cutting-through-the-breeze feeling. The design concept was to combine environment-friendly performance with fun-to-drive sports-car performance in an advanced, lightweight, aerodynamic package. The body is made mainly of super-light carbon fiber and aluminium - the overall weight is just 700 kg. A sweeping aerodynamic shape helps achieve a drag coefficient (CD) of just 0.20. The efficient power plant is a refined update of Honda's IMA system. Outstanding aerodynamics, light weight and a 'green' power plant for bicycle-like freedom of movement - that's what the new-age lightweight IMAS sports car is all about.
Designed to be ultra-light and exceptionally aerodynamic, the IMAS features a carbon fiber body and an ultra-low weight. A sweeping aerodynamic contour and a transparent spoiler with built-in rear combination lights help provide an exceptional CD of 0.20. Sharp exterior lines combine with smooth planes to create an exceptionally wind-cheating form. Designed to open wide for maximum loading and unloading convenience, the top-bottom split double tailgate achieves both sophisticated design and functionality.
Designed for lightness, the interior construction is sparse and reveals the aluminium frame structure, reminiscent of a road racing bicycle with its shining parts shown to full advantage. An ultra-thin, transparent instrument panel and navigation monitor provide precise, comprehensive information, including images from a CCD camera showing what's happening to the sides and rear of the vehicle.
Honda's IMA system has evolved, becoming even more efficient. Exceptionally light and aerodynamic, the IMAS gets over 40km/liter. Handling is optimized with a shaft-less VGS steering system. Drive By Wire technology delivers a natural, linear throttle response. Working in perfect synergy, these electronic control technologies produce a crisp, clean driving experience.
Company press release, last updated before 12 / 01 / 2004
Hmm...will Honda ever make a REAL CRX replacement or do we have to keep enduring oddball econo-extremities like these? If it performs well and they can produce it at competitive cost, it will sell. However, it's hard to justify spending close to AUD 50K for a small car (this is the Insight's price in Australia). Hell, if it's half-decent to drive and lists
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IMAS
The bicycle: a highly maneuverable, environment-friendly means of transportation that responds to the rider's every whim. The IMAS: a sports car designed to provide that same invigorating cutting-through-the-breeze feeling. The design concept was to combine environment-friendly performance with fun-to-drive sports-car performance in an advanced, lightweight, aerodynamic package. The body is made mainly of super-light carbon fiber and aluminium - the overall weight is just 700 kg. A sweeping aerodynamic shape helps achieve a drag coefficient (CD) of just 0.20. The efficient power plant is a refined update of Honda's IMA system. Outstanding aerodynamics, light weight and a 'green' power plant for bicycle-like freedom of movement - that's what the new-age lightweight IMAS sports car is all about.
