Honda to launch Hybrid Minivan in 2011

A hybrid version of the Freed minivan will join the CR-Z and Fit hybrids by early 2011 according to Honda President Takanobu Ito. The Freed is built on the same compact platform as the Fit. We assume it will use the same 1.3 L VTEC engine and mild hybrid electric system found in Honda's Insight.

Honda had previously said they would not build battery powered cars but they now admit a Honda battery electric vehcile will be introduced by 2015, a prototype of which will be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October.