New ASIMO Makes Its Russian Debut at Moscow International Motor Show

MOSCOW – September 1, 2008: ASIMO arrived in Moscow to attend the 2008 Moscow International Motor Show (MIAS-2008). This is the first time the latest version of ASIMO has travelled to Russia and will spend 13 days in the country's capital.

Honda's theme for this year's show is advanced technology and the environment. ASIMO brings this to life for the visitors of the show by illustrating Honda's dedication to innovative and cutting edge research.

During the MIAS-2008 the New ASIMO will make over 50 public performances on a vast, purpose-built stage. Each demonstration, lasting half an hour, will provide the estimated 1.5 million visitors to the international motor show with an opportunity to see Honda's latest advances in the field of humanoid robotics. This will include ASIMO's ability to run, climb stairs, give and receive objects and interact with people. It will also include a unique dance, demonstrating the superior agility and movement of the new ASIMO to its predecessors.

The MIAS-2008 is growing in size and popularity. This year over 30 countries are being represented and it will pack in over 1000 exhibitors and 2,200 accredited journalists into 120, 000 square meters of space. This growth has led to it being recently named an ‘A' category motor show alongside Geneva, Paris, Detroit and Frankfurt, which mirrors the dynamic and fast paced nature of the Russian automotive market.

Honda's booth at the MIAS-2008 features the CR-Z concept car, which is being displayed in Russia for the very first time, the upgraded Honda Legend 2009 (European premiere), the brand-new Honda Pilot (European premiere), the Civic Hybrid concept, the Civic 5D Mugen study model and several other cars.

Honda sales in Russia have steadily increased over the last few years. In 2007 Honda cars sales increased 2.5 times compared to 2006. Honda Russia expects that this high rate of sales growth will continue for 2008.