Honda roadster for production; AC-X for relaxation

According to respected publication Auto Motor und Sport, Honda has approved plans for the EV Ster to go into production, just weeks after its appearance at the Tokyo motor show in concept form. The German magazine quotes Honda president Ito Takanobu, suggesting the electric roadster will also be offered with a conventional petrol engine.

Further from reality is Honda's AC-X -- or Advanced Cruiser eXperience -- concept which can convert to autopilot mode because allegedly "even those who truly love driving can get bored cruising on the highway".

Under normal driving requirements the AC-X employs its plug-in hybrid system; incorporating electric motor with 120kW and a 1.6-litre engine rated at 96kW. Activating the AC-X's Automatic Drive Mode retracts the joystick-like steering apparatus, reclines front passenger seating to a degree that would rival Air NZ's biz class and releases an ottoman for the driver's comfort.

Honda doesn't provide any details on the AC-X's autopilot system but presumably it's a concept that could utilise the company's findings generated from development of the HondaJet.

The AC-X's styling is based on the Clarity fuel-cell model but takes it further with wheel "diffusers" that remain level while the car is in motion (see: 'spinners' under 'pimp my ride') and strip LED head and taillights. The LED treatment is also applied along the AC-X's sides; designed to light up when the Automatic Drive Mode is activated... Handy as a warning to other road users that the AC-X's occupants could be snoozing.

The AC-X is far-off but the roadster would serve as a decent stand-in for the S2000, with or without the electric set-up.

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