CIVIC GAS-ELECTRIC HYBRID TO DEBUT IN WASHINGTON, DC

Monday, Dec. 17, 2001 -- The Honda Civic Hybrid will make its national debut at the Washington Auto Show on Thurs., Dec. 20, at the show's press preview day. Dan Bonawitz, Vice President, Corporate Planning and Logistics, American Honda, will unveil the vehicle at a press conference at 11 a.m. The press conference will be held at the Washington Convention Center, 900 19th St. NW, Washington, DC.

The 2003 Civic Hybrid will go on sale nationwide in spring of 2002. It combines a small internal combustion engine with an electric motor to provide outstanding performance and fuel economy. Built off the current Civic sedan, the Civic Hybrid features a new, improved version of Honda's patented 'Integrated Motor Assist' (IMA) system, enhanced aerodynamics, exceptional interior comfort and roominess, and a sophisticated, high-tech feel.

"The introduction of the 2003 Civic Hybrid shows that proven hybrid technology is now ready for 'prime time'," said Robert Bienenfeld, senior manager of product planning and alternate fuel vehicles at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The Honda Insight, currently the most fuel efficient gasoline-powered vehicle on the road, proved that hybrid technology is reliable, efficient and practical. Now Honda is applying a similar, more advanced system to the best-selling small car in America."

Combined with Honda's continuously variable automatic transmission or manual transmission, this new IMA system provides a combination of excellent drivability and superb gas mileage, which is expected to achieve around 50 miles per gallon, and to be certified nationwide as an 'Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle' (ULEV) -- an 84 percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions than a typical car. This achievement makes the Civic Hybrid the most fuel efficient, mass-produced, five-passenger sedan in the world.

The 2003 Civic Hybrid equipped with standard alloy wheels, ABS and side airbags is expected to cost less than $20,000.