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Modified Honda Odyssey minivans to transport Detroit residents to COVID-19 testing

Posted at 10:08 AM, May 10, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-10 10:27:19-04

DETROIT (WXYZ) — On May 5, Honda delivered 10 Odyssey minivans to the City of Detroit. The vehicles have been specially outfitted to transport people potentially infected with COVID-19, as well as health care workers, a release states.

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These new Honda Odysseys have been retrofitted with a plastic barrier installed behind the front seating area to also protect potential spreading of the virus to drivers. The vehicles also have modifications to the ventilation system for separate air pressure between the front and rear seating areas.

The project was completed in less than two weeks in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

"We're very proud of the efforts made by Honda engineers in Ohio to quickly devise a plan and modify a small fleet of Honda Odyssey minivans to support the people of Detroit in the face of this unprecedented global pandemic," said Rick Schostek, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "This project is one of many initiatives being undertaken by Honda and our associates to support communities throughout the country during this very difficult time."

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