Model X Confirmed for Production
Honda has confirmed that the Model X concept which was displayed at the Tokyo Motorshow last year will be a production model in 2003. The actual name for the new model has not been decided.
In developing the multi-functional Model X concept, Honda has demonstrated that a vehicle like this is possible to build and consumer interest is high for new and functional approaches to exterior and interior designs. A departure from traditional automotive design and thinking, it is expected ‘to resonate with a younger audience.
The Model X concept was conceived around achieving ideal
functionality for a cross-country road trip, hauling surfboards, mountain bikes, snowboards or just about anything else as it combines some of the best features of a pickup and an SUV.
Another target of the concept was to keep the cost low, so it would be an attractive entry-level vehicle to younger buyers. It was first conceived by a core group of young R&D engineers in 1998. They wanted to develop a vehicle that they could use for their activities and conducted informal on-site focus groups at colleges, beaches, campsites and the mountains.
The exterior design has a simple two-box design with side moldings running the length of the vehicle for a durable look. The side doors are designed without a B-pillar and open from the center, achieving an “open architecture” style. These “open wide” doors make the Model X the perfect base camp or location for side gate parties.
However, it remains to be seen how the design will be made strong enough to resist side impacts at levels required by safety regulations in the USA and Japan. In conventional vehicle structures, the centre pillar plays an important role in giving protection against collisions from the sides as well as for stiffening the ‘safety cage’.
On the inside, Model X offers a resilient and comfortable interior. The floor is flat with a low loading height and features an easy to clean resin surface. All seating surfaces are made of materials that are easy to clean.
Interior features include a flip-up navigation screen with integrated wireless internet capability, video input and DVD playback. The stereo system proposed includes MP3 download and playback capability, along with satellite radio, cassette and CD player.
The Model X appears to have been conceived primarily for the US and Japanese but may well be offered elsewhere in the world.
