Honda will unveil a low-emission, lightweight sports study model at the British International Motor Show later this month.
The striking two-seat roadster aims to couple sleek looks with exciting driving dynamics and more efficient engine technology, to give lower exhaust emissions.
The Honda OSM (for Open Study Model), was designed by Honda’s R&D facility in Offenbach, Germany. It’s the latest example of the young talent being developed within Honda’s design studios in Europe – following the Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept (Geneva 2007) and the Accord Tourer Concept (Frankfurt 2007).
At present, there are no plans for this design study model to enter production, although Honda will gather feedback from customers at the show to guide any future developments.
Sitting on sporty six-spoke alloy wheels, the OSM has a slippery, aerodynamic exterior to minimise drag. A wide, sloping rear end incorporates a narrow rear light strip, which wraps around the rump of the car. At the front, a gaping front grille sits between angular headlights that stretch from nose of the bonnet to the top of the wheel arches.
The car will be revealed during the Honda press conference on Tuesday, 22 July at 10.30am, on the Honda stand in the North Hall.
Stand stars
Joining the OSM on the Honda stand will be the FCX Clarity – Honda’s hydrogen fuel cell production car – which makes its UK debut. Last month, the first customer car rolled off the line in Japan, and deliveries take place during July. The zero-emission cars are being introduced first in California, before a launch in Japan later this year.
The CR-Z – Honda’s lightweight hybrid sportscar – makes its UK show debut. The low emission coupe has been confirmed for production and forms an important part of Honda’s commitment to hybrid technology.
These two models are accompanied by the full current range of Honda cars – including an Accord suspended upside down from the ceiling to reflect the recent skydiving advertising campaign for the D-sector challenger.
The Power of Dreamscape
Honda has also taken over the Live Action Arena at ExCel, renaming it ‘Dreamscape’ for the duration of the British Motor Show. This arena will house performances that tell the unique story of Honda, using cars, motorcycles, dancers and even robots!
Helping Honda celebrate its 60th birthday, a cast of actors, drivers and riders will showcase over 40 different products from Honda’s history. ASIMO, Honda’s advanced humanoid robot, will also show off its latest skills, including a new ability to run.
To compliment the high-energy show, urban free-runners will burst onto the scene with an energetic re-enactment in the spirit of the latest TV advert. The arena comprises of a 50 square metre tarmac area with a stage at one end and tiered seating for 2,500 people, plus three projection screen, a super-sound system and live music.
Each Dreamscape performance will last 20 minutes followed by 10 minutes viewing time, where visitors can get close to the stars of the show. There will be at least four shows per day – plus an exclusive premiere on press day (22 July) at 15.00.
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