Honda goes hipster with Gear concept

The simply-styled but head-turning Honda Gear concept car was unveiled at the Montreal motor show as an example of what the company thinks hipsters and generation Y buyers would want to drive.

About the same size as a Mitsubishi Mirage, the sub-light concept car was "inspired by fixed-gear bicycles" among other things, says Honda, a popular mode of transport among trend-setting hipsters. Penned by Honda R&D Americas, Inc, the vehicle's compact dimensions are juxtaposed by its cheeky styling, comprising simple but bold design cues such as the over sized headlights, retro rear-end accents and sporty silhouette.

Though Honda is not saying what provides motive force for the vehicle, it reckons the Gear concept is "the automotive answer for young, urban, Gen-Y lifestyles" whose "simple and utilitarian" blueprint will increase appeal for this demographic.

The new Honda hipster concept may be a litmus test for a sub-light car that would slot in underneath the Jazz and rival minimalistic vehicles such as the Volkswagen Up! in developed markets.

Honda already has the Brio city car in its portfolio, but at present it is mainly sold in developing markets. However the Gear concept could yet be a preview of the next generation Jazz-based Brio, or a vehicle based on the same platform, expected to break cover in 2016.

Dave Marek, Design Director at Honda R&D Americas, Inc, says the Gear concept car addresses the issues that face generation Y when choosing a new vehicle.

"Subcompact cars are usually either utilitarian, but uninspiring or they're fun, zippy cars that are impractical and too expensive for the Gen-Y buyer.

"Gear concept tears down those walls -- it's practical but fun, customisable, connected and affordable. Everything that young, discerning urban buyers would want in a car."

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