Honda recently re-introduced their 1984 concept car, the HP-X.
The company’s first concept, the sleek coupe was designed by Italian firm Pininfarina, and at the time, featured some truly cutting-edge bells and whistles.
This included a CD player, GPS, real-time telemetry, and “special sonar” technology that warns you about road conditions. CD players are now entirely defunct, but GPS and sonar/radar are now common in all new cars. Pretty cool, from a vehicle from 40 years ago.
The sleek 80s coupe had a doorless design, where the whole body lifted up to allow entry. Whether you think it evokes a Dustbuster or not, the HP-X is truly iconic.
The vehicle was recently showcased at the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours.
“Honda is turning back the clock 40 years, with the North American debut of the company’s very first concept car, the Honda HP-X.
The HP-X employed advanced aerodynamics including “ground effects” and innovative cooling solutions for its mid-mounted 2.0-liter DOHC 24-valveV6 engine, which was based on a Honda F2 racing engine.
There are no doors, instead the futuristic concept features a jet-fighter style removable single-piece Perspex canopy. The rear of the canopy extends into a fairing with two main functions – improving the car’s streamline appearance and serving as a driver-controlled air brake.
Additionally, the HP-X explored the cutting-edge use of alternative materials including honeycomb panels, carbon fiber and Kevlar to reduce weight and improve performance.”
