Data source: Honda.com

Integrated Motor Assist (IMA™): The Integrated Motor Assist System (IMA™) is composed of a gasoline engine and an electric motor, which serves several important functions of the Honda Insight. The electric motor is located between the gas engine and transmission, supplies the additional power during acceleration. the electric motor also functions as a high-speed starter and as a generator for the charging system during regenerative braking.

Lightweight Design: The light weight design and weight reducing technologies used in Honda Insight is the secret behind the good acceleration and the extremely fuel efficient car. Lightweight aluminum is a key ingredient in the vehicle body; Innovative fabrication techniques are used to built the Honda Insight to achieve the light weight features. An aluminum car is as safe as a steel-bodied car.

Vtec Technology: The VTEC® technology developed by Honda is the key feature for reduced emissions and higher fuel economy.

Electric Motor: The IMA™ electric motor works in conjunction with the gasoline engine, and supplies additional torque in assist mode. The motor's ultra-thin design allows it to be mounted between the engine and the transmission. The motor also functions as the generator for the IMA System during deceleration, and as a starter, quickly spinning the engine up to idle speed.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) :The Honda Insight comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in a package. The CVT offers the convenience of an automatic transmission with the greater fuel efficiency and performance of a manual transmission.