GT5 Transcripts/Honda INSIGHT '99

Since the clamour for environmentally responsible cars, makers have been competing fiercely to create more fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicles. The turning point came in 1997 with the debut of the 1st-generation Toyota PRIUS. In response, Honda offered its first hybrid in 1999: the 1st-generation Honda INSIGHT.
Against the PRIUS's image as a well-appointed hybrid saloon, the INSIGHT emerged as a 2-door sports car alternative; Honda was shooting for a hybrid sports car instead of a hybrid passenger car like Toyota's. The two vehicles' mileage performance in the 10-15 mode road test showed that the INSIGHT achieved about 4.4L/100km compared to the PRIUS's 4.9L/100km. This was not just due to the engine, but because the INSIGHT had kept loading to a minimum through lower kerb weight and better aerodynamics.
The powerplant was Honda's IMA hybrid system, a simple design where a gas engine provides the main driving force, supplemented by power from an electric motor. The engine, a 1.0L straight-3 SOHC lean-burning VTEC, is the lightest in the world to produce 69 BHP.
The engine is paired with a low-profile brushless 10kW DC motor and NiMH batteries. Of course the car features regenerative braking technology and an idling-stop system as well. The INSIGHT also employs a great deal of aluminium to keep the kerb weight down to 820kg, which is 40% lighter compared to a steel construction.
Sadly, the 1st-generation INSIGHT did not appeal to many buyers. The 2nd-generation was released in 2009, 10 years after the INSIGHT's debut. This new INSIGHT emerged completely reborn as a serious mass-production hybrid model based on the Honda Fit.
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