> Hey there,
>
> It is time for me to think of another car. I have a fair commute
> 35ish miles each way (predominantly 55 mph for 35ish minutes
> then city traffic with a bit of stop and go for another 10-15). Took
> a quick look at the Honda Insight. I like the 70 miles to the
> gallon (begging Albertos and every other metric oriented persons
> pardon for my digressions), but don't know how well these engines
> work and if the battery charging patterns, would hold up. Not the
> most vehicular advanced place in the world here, so all I am
> getting on this end is the "it's too light" "made of foam", and
> "where will the dogs go" (the last is the only impractical side for
> this two seater). Any input or stories welcome.
>
> Dee
OK, the way the Insight works is this:
While you're cruising, the petrol engine chugs you along. Under braking, the
electric motor acts as an engine brake and generator, under acceleration, it
boosts the dinky petrol engine, and when stopped at lights, the petrol
engine is shut off. Highty fab and funky, and Honda actually make a
substantial loss on every one. It's one of the most aerodynamic cars on the
road.
"It's too light"... Um??? As the great Colin Chapman (designer of the Lotus
7 and Elan...) said: "Just add lightness...". "Made of foam"? Pardon. Sorry,
not everyone needs to drive a mobile steel bunker with a 12 litre engine...
:o)
Space is indeed an issue. It does only have two seats and a poxy small boot
(um... trunk?).
I'll do a bit of research, I'm sure that there's a 4 door hydrid out there,
but I can't remember the manufacturer.
Charlie
