The Honda AC-X body reportedly bears some strong similarities to the next-gen Accord.
It just might be the perfect car for the videogame generation – though the Honda AC-X concept should also appeal to those who don’t like driving at all.
Short for Advanced Cruiser Experience, the concept on the Honda stand at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show is subtly reminiscent of the maker’s current FCV fuel-cell vehicle, which has been leasing in Southern California, but the Honda AC-X turns to a plug-in hybrid drive system while introducing a variety of features meant to improve fuel-efficiency and explore new methods of driving.
That includes the Twin-Lever Steering system, or TLS, which replaces the long-familiar steering wheel with two joysticks. They fold away if a driver switches the AC-X to autonomous mode, which would allow someone to get a few minutes extra sleep during the morning commute.
The Honda Twin-Lever Steering system is shared with another new concept, the EV-Ster.
The AC-X body fits the over-the-top history of the Tokyo Motor Show, with a sweeping line of LEDS on each side enhancing visibility – and illustrating the dual nature of the concept vehicle. The body features a variety of active aero enhancements, according to Honda design executive Ichiro Tobisawa, from the smile-like grille to the exhaust pipes.
There are movable diffusers, front and rear, to adapt to road and driving conditions. Even the front bumper and side skirt flex to improve aerodynamics according to vehicle speed.
The Honda AC-X concept is powered by a 120 kilowatt electric motor that can deliver up to 31 miles of battery range at speeds up to 62 mph. For higher speeds, or if the battery runs down, a 1.6-liter gas engine kicks in. The show car is expected to achieve fuel economy of 101 mpg in hybrid mode.
The interior features ultra-thin seats to maximize space and a floating instrument panel with a high-tech, high-touch display that highlights the advanced control system in use on the Honda AC-X.
But the TLS system is clearly what will first catch the eye. The maker says it has actually been testing prototype vehicles equipped with the TLS system at Japan’s Suzuka race track. But even if the twin-joystick system were to prove comfortable and easy to use it would be a challenge selling it to government regulators around the world making it unlikely such technology could see production anytime soon.
As for active aero technology, that’s more likely. Many makers have already turned to electronically adjustable rear wings, for example.
Meanwhile, don’t be surprised to get a sense of deja vu when Honda reveals its next-generation Accord sedan next year. Senior company officials are hinting that some of the basic lines of the AC-X Concept will reappear on that mainstream model.