Initially developed...
Initially developed in Norway, the device has subsequently been trialled in France, where tests showed that around 95 per cent of the toxic vapour was eliminated. British environment minister Ben Bradshaw explained: "Petrol fumes from service stations contribute to air pollution and lead to smog in warm weather. Fitting new equipment which can capture these fumes will help to cut risks to public health and the environment."
The lid has been lifted...
The lid has been lifted on Hondaò€™s green future! The Japanese firm
wowed crowds at the British Motor Show with its stunning OSM (Open
Study Model) concept.
Making its world debut here in London, the
rakish two-seater points the way toward an eco-friendly successor to
the companyò€™s S2000 roadster.
Penned by staff at the
manufacturerò€™s design studio in Frankfurt, Germany, the newcomer claims to offer
class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions, thanks to slippery
aerodynamics and a lightweight construction. Bosses at the company also hinted
that the model could get a powerful hybrid powerplant.
Take a
look at the OSM, and it"s clear that style is as important as its environmental
credentials. The shark-like nose features a gaping grille and slim
wraparound headlamps, while the gently rising waistline sweeps up to a
high-set tail. Here youò€™ll find distinctive LED rear lights that run
the full width of the car.
Climb aboard, and the
sporty theme continues to the cabin. The two heavily bolstered seats
are low set and trimmed in blue leather. In front of the driver is a
cowled binnacle packed with dials that are illuminated with a cool blue
light.
No official announcements have been made about whatò€™s
under the bonnet, although a hybrid powerplant is likely. This would be
connected to a semi-auto gearbox operated via a normal lever or paddles
behind the steering wheel.
Bosses at Honda claim that this
concept wonò€™t make production. But with the hybrid CR-Z coupe getting the green light and the hydrogen-powered FCX now on sale, a showroom ready OSM could appear within the next five years.
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