Honda to Showcase "Spocket" Concept Vehicle at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show

- Transforms from Convertible to Sports Coupe to Pickup Truck -

TORRANCE, Calif. - The Honda "Spocket" concept vehicle will make its North American debut on January 7 at a press conference prior to the public opening of the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

The Honda Spocket Concept Car

Photo: Honda

The Spocket concept vehicle, created by Honda R & D Americas, Inc., in Torrance, is a convertible, pickup and sports car, all in one. At the touch of a button, the Spocket changes from four seats to two and the clamshell top retracts to provide open-air driving.

The Spocket's futuristic style begins with an angular, lightweight body, dramatic tilt-up doors and a striking bright-red over gun-metal gray color. The interior features bucket seats made from durable fabrics that will withstand any weather condition.

The concept car's four-wheel—drive system features an advanced drivetrain employing both a hybrid gasoline-electric engine powering the front wheels and two in-wheel electric motors for the rear wheels to provide full-time four-wheel drive.

"With its hybrid gasoline-electric drivetrain and chameleon-like body, the Spocket exemplifies Honda's design creativity and technological ingenuity," said Elliott.

In addition to the debut of the Spocket, Honda will display a 2000 Accord EX Sedan, which will be the first gasoline-powered vehicle certified to California's new Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standard when it goes on sale in California in January, continuing the company's leadership in low-emission technologies.

The Honda Insight, the only gas-electric hybrid vehicle on sale in the United States, will also be on display. The all-new 2000 Insight is rated at 61 mpg city/70 mpg highway — the first vehicle to ever break the 70-mpg barrier in EPA highway ratings.

The Spocket, Accord SULEV, Insight and Honda's complete 2000 model year vehicle line will be on display from Jan. 8 – 16 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

(Dec. 13 , 1999)
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