Avis Portugal is offering a hybrid car hire

In partnership with Quercus (the major portuguese environmental non-governmental organisation) and Honda, Avis Portugal is offering a hybrid vehicle (petrol-electric technology) in its fleet.

At first sight, the Honda Civic IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) looks like an ordinary car, however what makes it different is its revolutionary petrol-electric technology.

Honda_civic_Avis

How does it work?

The Civic IMA combines a conventional 1.4 L petrol engine, with an electric motor, which assists the petrol engine as you accelerate or as you go up hill. As you slow down or brake, the electric motor acts as a generator recharging the battery, which is stored out of sight behind the rear seats. The batteries of the IMA system don't need an exterior energy source to recharge.

Furthermore, when the vehicle comes to a complete stop it will switch itself off (auto stop) and when you depress the clutch and engage first gear it will automatically restart itself.

What are the benefits?
The Civic IMA is an ordinary and comfortable 4-door vehicle, combining excellent petrol consumption (4,9L / 100 km) with reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Besides saving on petrol costs, the vehicle has a positive environmental impact.

The driving performance doesn't have to be sacrificed, as the Civic IMA has a maximum power of 90 horsepower.

The main advantage of the Civic IMA is that it drives just like any other petrol-driven car, therefore you don't need to change the way you drive.

Technology of the future in a vehicle today, available for rent at one of Avis Portugal Mainland stations.