What's the news?
Honda will begin trials of its short-distance urban commuter vehicle, the Micro Commuter Prototype, in 2013. First seen at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show in concept form, the prototype is aimed at families with young children, the elderly, commuters, car sharing and home delivery services.
Exterior
A modular design concept is used for the body and the mechanical components are located under the floor. The result is a design with a variety of potential bodies to suit different purposes such as pick-up, van and car. All the designs share the same short but tall outline with minimal overhangs.
Interior
The seating is designed for one adult plus two small children or, by reconfiguring the rear seat, two adults. A tablet device takes the place of conventional instruments and on-board navigation. On-board charging is provided by means of solar cells in the roof.
Mechanicals
The Micro Commuter Prototype is designed to fit Europe's L7 vehicle class. Technically that makes it a motorcycle and, excluding battery weight can be no more than 400kg with a power output of 15kw (about 20hp). Maximum speed is claimed to be just under 80km/h with a 60-kilometre maximum range. Charging the lithium-ion battery should take less than three hours.
Anything else?
Honda has designed the vehicle to integrate with its Smart Home System (HSHS). The HSHS is being tested in the city of Saitama, Japan with a view to reducing CO2 emissions through smart energy management. When not in use as an electric vehicle the Micro Commuter Prototype is designed to function as a household battery.