Honda AC-X Concept - 2011 Tokyo Auto Show

The honda AC-X Concept is a family-size plug-in hybrid that may point to a future design direction for the accord. Its sleek design is almost a one-box fastback shape that appears to be an evolution of the current fuel cell-powered Clarity. One of the key features of the AC-X Concept is its autonomous drive mode. The car features a bold front graphic with a large single bar and prominent Honda logo. The front fascia, side skirts and rear diffuser are moveable, lowering to improve the car’s aerodynamics at speed. The sides of the vehicle are defined by sharp character lines housing ambient lighting that carve a cove from behind the front wheels out through the rear deck.

The new concept showcases a plug-in hybrid system similar to that slated to bow next year on the Accord. Unlike previous Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) technology that features capacitors, the new setup includes a lithium-ion battery and auxiliary electric motor that allows the vehicle to be driven up to 31 miles in pure electric mode with a top speed of 62 mph before the gasoline engine kicks in. The plug-in system allows the batteries to reach full charge in about two hours. The electric motor and battery pack are supported by a conventional a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. Honda says the total range of the vehicle with its combined pure electric/hybrid power is more than 600 miles.

The AC-X name stands for “Advanced Cruiser eXperience,” and it points to the dual nature of this vehicle in that it can be driven like a conventional car, or switched into an auto pilot mode. Instead of a conventional steering wheel, the AC-X features a dual joystick control system, a head-up display and cockpit styling that features a large center console. In auto drive mode, the joystick controls stow away and the front seat reclines.

With the AC-X’s ability to drive itself, a premium is placed on in-vehicle connectivity and entertainment systems for both front and rear passengers. The 4-seat AC-X features dash-mounted screens in front and a pop-up entertainment system in the rear console for the back-seat occupants.