Honda Reveals Hybrid Development Plans and Unveils Everus Concept in Beijing

Honda used the Beijing Auto Show to present its future new energy vehicle development plans for China and to introduce a new sub-brand, LI NIAN. The Japanese automotive producer announced that it will bring two hybrid vehicles to the country by 2012 and that its premium division, Acura, will develop such a vehicle by 2013.

The China hybrid vehicles project will see the automaker debut the Insight and the CR-Z vehicles as well as bring its Crosstour utility vehicle to the market.

"Last year, Honda's sales achieved an all-time record of 580,000 units in China,” Honda president and CEO Takanobu Ito said during a press conference held at the Chinese event. "Honda will continue its efforts to become the 'automaker closest to customers' in China, by introducing environmentally-responsible models and through further collaboration with its partners, Guangzhou Automobile and Dongfeng Motor."

As a preview for the future design language used by the company’s Chinese vehicles, Honda unveiled the first vehicle of the LI NIAN brand: dubbed the Everus, the concept uses angular design cues and multiple chrome elements for the front fascia and rear end.

The sedan comes with LED daytime running lights and uses a “double” design for its headlights. The rear of the vehicle features dual trapezoidal tailpipes. The concept rides on multi spoke rims that feature a turbine-inspired design.

The LI NIAN Everus is destined for production, with the new model expected to be unveiled later in the year, at the Guangzhou Auto Show.