Honda has celebrated a quarter-century of hybrid technology by unveiling a unique version of its Civic e:HEV
– one that stands out in an unparalleled shade of silver. This commemorative model, coated in what Honda is calling the world’s “Silveriest Silver,” marks 25 years since the introduction of Europe’s first hybrid model, the Honda Insight, which debuted in 1999.
The remarkable silver paint on this one-off Civic e:HEV
was formulated by the renowned artist Stuart Semple, celebrated for his boundary-pushing work with colors. Semple, who has previously created the “Pinkest Pink,” the “Goldest Gold,” and the “Blackest Black,” developed this bespoke silver paint in collaboration with his art studio, Culture Hustle. Known as the “Silveriest Silver,” this paint consists of a dazzling 64% real silver, suspended in an acrylic medium. The result is a metallic effect so authentic that it gives the illusion of the car being made from solid silver.
Once Semple’s silver concoction was perfected, it was entrusted to The Syrup Room, a specialist in custom vehicle fabrication in Bournemouth, UK. Their team meticulously prepared the Civic’s bodywork, operating in a climate-controlled environment to ensure the flawless application of the paint. Over the course of three days, multiple coats were applied with expert precision, using advanced spraying technology to create a breathtaking, mirror-like silver finish.
Reflecting on Honda’s milestone, Nik Pearson of Honda Motor Europe shared, “Honda’s hybrid know-how is unmatched in the industry. In 1999 we set about building the world’s most fuel-efficient car, the revolutionary Insight, which was the first petrol-electric hybrid car in Europe. Today, we offer a fully electrified model range, the majority of which feature our innovative e
powertrain. It’s for these reasons we’ve marked 25 years of hybrid technology with the ultimate silver anniversary gift, the Silveriest Civic. And doesn’t it look fantastic.”
Honda’s journey in hybrid technology began with the Insight and has evolved dramatically over the years. Today, its lineup is fully electrified, showcasing the brand’s pioneering e:HEV powertrain across models like the Jazz, HR-V, ZR-V, and CR-V, alongside the 11th-generation Civic itself. Each of these models combines Honda’s hallmark performance and fuel efficiency, creating an electrified driving experience that promises both dynamic response and seamless power delivery.
The Civic e:HEV , launched in 2022, exemplifies Honda’s technological progress. At its core lies a sophisticated hybrid system: a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, two high-torque electric motors, a high-energy lithium-ion battery, and cutting-edge power control and intelligent power units. This system enables the Civic e:HEV to deliver a spirited drive while setting benchmarks in efficiency and low emissions.
Looking ahead, Honda’s commitment to hybrid technology remains unwavering. The brand has announced the return of the iconic Prelude, reimagined with a petrol-electric powertrain. Promising a perfect blend of driving exhilaration, efficiency, and signature style, the Prelude will continue Honda’s tradition of creating vehicles that bring the “joy of driving” to a new generation of enthusiasts.
Honda’s hybrid prowess also extends to the track, where it has successfully leveraged its expertise in Formula 1. Since re-entering the sport in 2015 as an engine supplier at the start of the turbo-hybrid era, Honda has fine-tuned its power units to exceptional effect. This hard work culminated in a 2021 drivers’ championship win with Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing, followed by consecutive constructors’ and drivers’ championships in 2022 and 2023. Honda’s involvement in F1 serves as a testament to its dedication to pushing the boundaries of hybrid technology, both on the road and on the track.
This unique Civic e:HEV, with its Silveriest Silver finish, is a striking reminder of Honda’s relentless pursuit of innovation. It stands as both a tribute to Honda’s hybrid heritage and a symbol of the brand’s electrified future.
