1999 Honda Spocket Concept
The Spocket concept vehicle, created by Honda R & D Americas, Inc., in Torrance, is a convertible, pickup and sports car, all in one. At the touch of a button, the Spocket changes from four seats to two and the clamshell top retracts to provide open-air driving.
Design and construction of the Spocket took eight short months to complete. It was inspired by Honda’s T360 mid-engine pickup truck, the company’s first mass-produced vehicle. Launched in 1963, the T360 featured a high-revving, 4-cylinder DOHC engine with four carburetors. Its mid-engine layout and cab-over design provided ample cargo and cabin space.
The Spocket’s futuristic style begins with an angular, lightweight body, dramatic tilt-up doors and a striking bright-red over gun-metal gray color. The interior features bucket seats made from durable fabrics that will withstand any weather condition.
The concept car’s four-wheel-drive system features an advanced drivetrain employing both a hybrid gasoline-electric engine powering the front wheels and two in-wheel electric motors for the rear wheels to provide full-time four-wheel drive. In addition, there’s a semi-automatic, five-speed transmission with shift buttons located on the steering wheel.
The interior features bucket seats, five-point seatbelts and is completely waterproof. Additional interior features include Honda’s GPS Navigation system and electric controls. Instead of sideview mirrors, the Spocket has cameras that project rear images to a heads-up display on the front windshield. Honda Spocket delivers not only sporty performance, but also versatility that lets you load up with sports gear and fully enjoy an active lifestyle.
Story by American Honda Motor Company, edited by Supercars.net
In Detail
submitted by | Richard Owen |
engine | Inline-4 |
valvetrain | DOHC |
bhp/weight | bhp per tonne |
driven wheels | AWD |
front brakes | Regenerative |
f brake size | mm / in |
r brake size | mm / in |
wheelbase | 2750 mm / 108.3 in |
length | 4720 mm / 185.8 in |
width | 1780 mm / 70.1 in |
height | 1280 mm / 50.4 in |
transmission | 5-Speed Tiptronic |
gear ratios | :1 |