24 February 2010

Honda 3R-C

Honda 3R-C concept makes debut at Geneva

24 February 2010 - The Honda 3R-C, a one-person battery electric vehicle concept, will make its world debut in Geneva alongside the EV-N concept, to be displayed for the first time in Europe. Both the three-wheeled 3R-C concept, which envisions a single occupant vehicle for zero emission commuting, and the EV-N urban concept, draw on Honda's working knowledge of vehicles utilising electric motors.

The revolutionary three wheeled battery electric vehicle concept shows what a future minimal urban transport vehicle for one person might look like. The battery electric drivetrain is mounted low in the three wheeled chassis, therefore keeping the centre of gravity low and thus improving stability.

Honda

The 3R-C has a clear canopy that covers the driver's seat while it is parked and not in use. When 3R-C vehicle is in motion, the canopy becomes an enveloping wind-shield that provides the pilot, who sits low in the vehicle, with significant protection from the bodywork and doors.

The high sides of the safety shell seat give greater safety to the occupant, reducing the threat from side impacts and improving weather protection. In front of the driver is a lockable boot area, which gives significant secure storage for luggage or other items. The 3R-C's designers created a flexible cover that surrounds the upper torso to reduce exposure to bad weather and improving comfort.

The 3R-C study was created by European designers working at Honda's Research and Design facility in Milan.

Honda

The EV-N concept, previously shown at the Tokyo Motor Show, will make its European debut in Geneva. A design study that evokes the spirit of the diminutive 1967 N360 city car, the EV-N features Honda's own solar panels in the roof, which could charge the car while it is parked. Two of Honda's U3-X, electric personal mobility devices are attached to the inside of each door. The two-door EV-N concept is envisioned with a Lithium ion battery pack, and small electric motor for predominantly urban use.