Air Design Study (Japan, 2010)

Honda developed for the 2010 LA Design Challenge, a car suited for an adventurous lifestyle - the Honda Air. A coastal cruiser inspired by the modern roller coaster as well as skydiving wing-suits, which is powered by a compressed air and pneumatic regulator system.

The car utilizes turbo vacuums and external air-flow to regenerate tank pressure for extended range and increased boost for an estimated 100 miles. The chassis doubles as the master tank and all components, including seating, are mounted to the central chassis/tank to eliminate redundant structure and reduce overall weight.

Vegetable based polymer panels and fairings protect occupants and the cockpit and package imitate the shapes of a modern roller coaster to maximize the open air experience. In order to reduce weight and increase performance, a hub-less wheel and drive system eliminates the use of heavy drive train components. Glass reinforced seating panels, urethane tire composition and skeletal sub-frame components combine for weight savings. The main tanks and reserves can be filled using a Honda generator / air compressor at home or tire filler at a local filling station.

In 2010 the Design Challenge was awarded at the Los Angeles Auto Show for the 7th time. Clearly, the challenge 2010 was referring to the need for society to minimize consumption of the earth's resources and produce and consume more sustainably.

The major automotive design studios were invited to develop an efficient, light-weight, four passenger vehicle (not to exceed 1,000 lbs./454 kg kerb weight), that is both comfortable and safe, while delivering satisfactory driving performance without sacrificing the styling consumers demand. For the first time studios from Germany and Japan took part in the competition which gives studios a chance to explore new ideas in automotive design.