The opening strains of Pearl Jam's lovely acoustic "Breathe" segued neatly into Honda's impassioned clean air intro, which painted the combustion engine as an antiquated bad guy whose impact upon the environment is akin to "stealing from our children".

President Takenobu Ito, President and CEO said that this is the most challenging time in the history of the auto industry, and Honda has refocussed specifically on hybrid technology and reduction of Co2 emissions.

Although technology continues to be a barrier to mass marketing, Toyota believes the fuel cell powered electric vehicle is the ultimate solution - generating its own power rather than recharging from the grid. But until the infrastructure is there, expanded use of hybrid electric technology is currently the best way to reduce emissions, Takenobu-san said.

Making its global debut, Honda's 2011 CR-Z hybrid sports coupe builds upon the legacy established by the "pocket rocket" CRX and becomes the third addition to Honda's hybrid lineup.

Powered by a 1.5 litre i-VTEC gasoline engine and Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) electric motor, the CR-Z is available with either six -speed manual or CVT transmission. A new three-mode selectable drive system lets the driver choose between Sport, Econ, or Normal modes. Power output is 122 hp, with 128 lb. ft. tq, with a projected fuel rating of 36 mpg (city) and 38 mpg (why).

Although prices haven't been announced yet, the CR-Z is slated to go on sale in the U.S. at the end of this summer.