The 2001 Honda Model X Concept aimed to cater to the lifestyle and preferences of young people immersed in extreme sports, music, videos, computer games, and the internet. Developed and designed by Honda's R&D in the US, this concept vehicle embodied a tough and versatile design, featuring the next-generation i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine mated to a rally-style 5-speed manual transmission.
Key Features:
Design Philosophy:
The Model X was conceptualized for young individuals, inspired by extreme sports and the lifestyle of the early 21st century.
The exterior design reflected a teenager's style with elements reminiscent of baggy pants, rough boots, and a backward baseball cap.
Powertrain:
The vehicle housed a next-generation i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine.
Mated to the engine was a rally-style 5-speed manual transmission.
Innovative Features:
The roofline had a sliding portion, and the rear window could disappear into the tailgate, providing an "open architecture" style.
Designed without a B Pillar, the Model X had center-opening rear doors for enhanced accessibility.
The cabin featured a textured resin floor for easy cleaning, and the back of the front seats could slide across the seat cushion to provide a rear-facing seat when parked.
Interior Design and Flexibility:
The interior aimed to resemble the premises of a beach or mountain rescue station, popular hangouts for Californian youth.
Inside, there were skinny benches for four people, with the front backrest folding forward to face friends and creating a disco-like atmosphere.
The rear bench could fold, move close to the front one, or be completely removed, offering flexibility in interior space.
Versatile Cargo Solutions:
The Model X featured an internal "trunk" under the ceiling for storing wet gear.
Loading snowboards, kayaks, and bicycles was convenient through side doors or the fold-down rear, turning the car into a pickup truck.
The interior was designed for easy cleaning with water from a hose.
Technology and Connectivity:
The center console contained controls for climate control and the stereo system.
A display slid out for GPS navigation and served as a computer with wireless internet access.
Future Production Plans:
Honda contemplated mass production of the Model X concept.
Priced under $25,000, the plan was to primarily sell it in North America before entering the Japanese market.
The target production volume was at least 100,000 units per year.
The Honda Model X Concept exemplified Honda's forward-thinking approach to understanding and addressing the needs and preferences of the emerging Generation Y demographic, blending style, functionality, and adaptability for an active and tech-savvy lifestyle.
Source & Images: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
