The Honda Project 2&4 Concept Is A MotoGP-Engined Ariel Atom Killer

Honda has combined its motorcycle and automobile expertise to develop a radical concept auto that’s been inspired by the world of 2&4 racing, where riders and drivers face off at the track to determine which is the ultimate form of travel. This has been called the Project 2&4 and it will be debuting at the German automotive event next week.

Matched to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, the V-4 four-stroke engine delivers 158kW at an atmospheric 13,000rpm, with peak torque of “over” 118Nm delivered at 10,500rpm. It has a mouthful of a name: The “Honda Project 2&4 power by RC213V”.

The resultant 390kW/tonne power-to-weight ratio promises vivid acceleration, however it’s likely that should a production version of the 2&4 appear, the MotoGP engine will be swapped for a more street-friendly unit like the 131kW/112Nm 1.0-litre four from the CBR1000RR. Featuring the RC213V competition motorcycle engine, which has been modified to run on public roads, Honda Project 2&4 provides the freedom of a motorcycle and the manoeuvrability of a vehicle. The vehicle is 3.04 metres long, 1.82 m wide as well as 995 mm high.

More than 80 designers competed in this year’s in-house competition – an annual contest between Honda’s design studios. The structure reveals the core frame and functional parts of the auto, much as would be more customary for a bike, and is similarly compact. The design places the driver as close to the action as possible and together with the open cockpit is meant to recreate the thrill of being on a bike.

Interestingly, the concept features an exposed floating design for the driver’s seat, creating a more “immersive experience” for the 2&4’s pilot.

Weighing in at just 405 kilograms (893 pounds), the Project 2&4 gets a mid-mounted engine for a low center of gravity and responsive handling – just like the original RA272.