DETROIT MOTOR SHOW: Honda NSX Concept

The wraps have come off the highly anticipated Acura / Honda NSX Concept at the Detroit Motor Show today, providing the first glimpse of how the new generation hybrid sports car will take shape.

Honda Motor Company's CEO, Takanobu Ito was at the Detroit Motor Show to unveil the new concept car, which will eschew the rear-wheel drive setup of its antecedent, opting for a 'Sport Hybrid' version of its Super Handling All Wheel Drive, or SH-AWD system.

However the NSX will retain its mid-engine V6 layout, augmented by a pair of electric motors, reported to be placed in the wheel hubs. Power figures have not been divulged but it is likely the direct injected V6 hybrid supercar will make around 300 kilowatts of power.

A dual clutch gearbox will be developed for the hybrid production car which is said to return excellent fuel economy while delivering supercar performance. Honda boss Takanobu Ito, who helped develop the original NSX, noted: "Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency. In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities."

Honda's halo sports car will reach production in about three years time and will be designed and built in the USA, not Japan as previously.

The vehicle's major market will be the USA, but it will also sell in 'global' markets and is unlikely to be limited to left-hand drive countries like the USA and Germany.

"Honda associates are up to the challenge of producing the new NSX for global customers with a high degree of craftsmanship," said Hidenobu Iwata, head of Honda's North American manufacturing operations and president of Honda of America.

"Honda associates in Ohio have been building high-quality Honda and Acura vehicles for nearly 30 years, so this news in many ways is a culmination of their determined efforts," explained Iwata.

According to Honda, the NSX will make use of a lightweight chassis and could be a rival for vehicles such as the Audi R8.

Hiroshi Takemura, president of Honda R&D Americas, said "We have a rich history of creating innovative new products for our customers in the U.S. and in markets around the world. The responsibility to develop the all-new Acura NSX demonstrates the maturity of our organisation, the know-how of our associates and their ability to create an advanced and innovative supercar."

More Detroit Motor Show news on motoring.com.au

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