Concept Car of the Week: Honda Kiwami (2003)

As part of Honda's exploration into new, clean-performing technologies, the Kiwami concept was created to test public acceptance of the idea of a large, fuel cell-powered luxury sedan. 

Unveiled in 2003, the simple yet striking design seemed like a Japanese twist on the Renault Vel Satis concept, which shared a similar wedge profile, wide stance and minimalist approach. 

However, the Kiwami found its own interpretation of modern luxury, expressed through elegantly integrated technology rather than with crystal champagne glasses. 

Up front, a full-width LED strip headlamp sat flush with the flat bonnet and the rectangular bumper to create a design of primitive beauty. 

Further examples of the same simple Japanese aesthetic are found around the car, including the uncluttered body panels and a full-width tail-lamp graphic that matched the front theme. 

The dramatic proportions of the interior were closely related to the package of the hydrogen power plant. Unlike other manufacturers at the time, Honda engineers did not create a 'skateboard' fuel cell chassis below the cabin.

Instead, a sideways H-shaped layout for the control unit, ultracapacitor, fuel cell stack, hydrogen storage and other components was used, helping to create a lower center of gravity. This innovative package also lowered overall cabin height.

The middle truss of the 'H' stretched down the entire length of the car, giving a broad central tunnel. That meant that despite its squashed MPV silhouette, the Kiwami only has room for four occupants.

However, the minimalism was maintained – the spartan dashboard was interrupted only by a screen in its center, and a pair of air vents at each side. The vents were split vertically by the door shut, so half of the vent was in the outer edge of the IP, and the corresponding half was in the door panel. This created a fantastic illusion of width and space, helped by the panoramic sunroof.  

With its dramatic proportions and luxurious interior, the fuel cell powered Kiwami still represents an interesting alternative to traditional premium sedans. 

First seen 2003 Tokyo Motor show
Exterior designer Hiroaki Nakamura
Interior designer Makoto Yamashita
Length 4,500 mm
Width 1,820 mm
Height 1,250 mm
Engine Hydrogen fuel cell
Transmission Four-wheel drive

Your author, Flavien Dachet, is a UK-based, French-born car designer. You may know him as the purveyor of KarzNshit, a photo blog that if it isn't already in your bookmarks, it certainly should be.

By Flavien Dachet