Honda Sportswagon Concept Photo-Chop

Not sure who did this, but it looks nice from the front, wild back end.  I am guessing that they 'chopped up a BMW for the front end.  Either way, looks good.

Thanks for the find Ray.

Vehicles Affected by the Takata Airbag Recall

AFFECTED VEHICLES (total number if known in parentheses):

Acura: 2002–2003 CL and TL; 2003–2006 MDX; 2005 RL

BMW (627,615): 2000–2005 3-series sedan and wagon; 2000–2006 3-series coupe and convertible; 2001–2006 M3 coupe and convertible

Chrysler (371,309, including Dodge): 2005–2008 Chrysler 300; 2007–2008 Aspen

Dodge/Ram (371,309, including Chrysler): 2003–2008 Dodge Ram 1500; 2005–2008 Ram 2500, Dakota, and Durango; 2006–2008 Ram 3500 and 4500; 2008 Ram 5500

Ford (58,669): 2004 Ranger; 2005–2006 GT; 2005–2007 Mustang

Honda (5,051,364, including Acura): 2001–2007 Accord; 2001–2005 Civic; 2002–2006 CR-V; 2002–2004 Odyssey; 2003–2011 Element; 2003–2007 Pilot; 2006 Ridgeline

Infiniti: 2001–2004 Infiniti I30/I35; 2002–2003 Infiniti QX4; 2003–2005 Infiniti FX35/FX45; 2006 Infiniti M35/M45

Lexus: 2002–2005 SC430

Mazda (64,872): 2003–2007 Mazda 6; 2006–2007 Mazdaspeed 6; 2004–2008 Mazda RX-8; 2004–2005 MPV; 2004 B-series

Mitsubishi (11,985): 2004–2005 Lancer; 2006–2007 Raider

Nissan (717,364, including Infiniti): 2001–2003 Maxima; 2001–2004 Pathfinder; 2002–2006 Nissan Sentra

Pontiac: 2003–2005 Vibe

Saab: 2005 9-2X

Subaru (17,516): 2003–2005 Baja, Legacy, Outback; 2004–2005 Impreza, Impreza WRX, Impreza WRX STI

Toyota (877,000, including Lexus and Pontiac Vibe): 2002–2005 Toyota Corolla and Sequoia; 2003–2005 Matrix, Tundra

Source;
http://blog.caranddriver.com/massive-takata-airbag-recall-everything-you-need-to-know-including-full-list-of-affected-vehicles/

2015 Honda NSX already sold out in UK

By Tim Pollard

Honda has closed the order books for the NSX hybrid sports car - despite the car not even being shown in public.

Dealers have been taking orders for the new 2015 NSX for the past two years, and now have 100 signatures, officials have confirmed to CAR.

That's enough demand for this limited-volume coupe to cap supply for now; it's at least the first year's allocation taken care of.

Honda closes the UK order bank for NSX

The news confirms that there remains plenty of pent-up demand for the NSX hybrid, which has only been shown so far as a hybrid (the pictures in our NSX gallery are of the concept car).

We'll have to wait until Detroit's 2015 North American International Auto Show in January 2015 to see the finished production NSX.

But that hasn't stopped 100 Brits placing £5000 deposits to pick up one of the first cars, expected to land on these shores in 2016.

The Civic Type-R order books open

You might be too late to order an NSX, in the first wave of deliveries at any rate, but you can now slap down a deposit on a Civic Type-R instead.

UK dealers have just opened their order books for the new turbocharged Type-R; place a £3000 deposit today to get one of the first UK cars due in showrooms in August or September 2015.

Next year is shaping up to be a major year for Honda: sales have stagnated in recent years with little new product thanks to the hiatus caused by R&D cuts in the recession, a swingeing yen exchange rate and the tsunami of 2011. Few new models have arrived and the Accord has slipped quietly off sale.

But in 2015, Honda's back with the new Civic Type-R for hot-hatch fans, the NSX production sports car, the new HR-V compact off-roader and the new Jazz. Not to mention an engine supply deal with McLaren to relaunch the brand in F1.

Are the good times about to return to Honda? Let us know in the comments below.

Source;
http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/Motoring-issues/Honda-NSX-order-book-closed-already-Civic-Type-Rs-opens/

Star Wars 7 Teaser Trailer

Totally off any automotive topic, but couldn't help but pass this on....

Honda to invest $857 million in Alliston (Ont gov kicks in $85.7M)

Honda Canada’s upgrade at its Alliston plants made the Canadian operation the first ‘global lead plant’ outside Japan. Ontario taxpayers contribute 10 per cent.

By: Rob Ferguson Queen's Park Bureau, Queen’s Park Bureau, Published on Thu Nov 06 2014

ALLISTON, ONT.—Ontario taxpayers are kicking in 10 per cent of the $857 million Honda is investing to upgrade three plants north of Toronto so the company can take the lead in developing the next-generation Civic.

The project — which has not secured any federal investment — will modernize the Civic, CRV sport utility and engine factories to provide “important efficiency gains,” Honda of Canada chief executive Jerry Chenkin said Thursday.

The three-year effort includes worker training and development and partnerships with Ontario colleges and universities and will make Honda’s Alliston operations a “teaching plant” for Honda workers around the world.

Chenkin ‎and Premier Kathleen Wynne acknowledged the province’s “conditional grant” of up to $85.7 million is not buying any new jobs.

“We’re helping to protect 4,000 good jobs,” the premier said after a tour of the massive CRV factory, touting Honda’s investment as a “vote of confidence” in the province.

The announcement comes months after Ford Canada — which got a multi-million injection from Ontario to upgrade its Oakville assembly plant — decided to shift engine production to Mexico instead of Windsor, taking 1,000 jobs south.

Losing auto production to Mexico and the United States has been a problem for Ontario, with the government unsuccessful in recent efforts to land new assembly plants while it tries to shore up existing production.

“We’re always aggressively pursuing others,” Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid told reporters.

Wynne, who fought the spring election campaign in part on her push to “partner” with automakers and other industries on next-generation manufacturing, said teaming with Honda kept the project from goi‎ng to another jurisdiction.

“Not in Ohio, not in Indiana, but right here in Ontario,” she boasted.

Chenkin suggested that the province’s cash infusion helped convince his bosses that the best business case for the investment was in Ontario.

“We have to fight for the business we get in Canada,” he said.

It’s the first time one of the company’s plants outside Japan has been designated as a “global lead plant,” which is a credit to the knowledge and experience of Alliston workers, he added.

While Honda’s project will take three years to complete, the Ontario contribution will be made in stages over five years and is conditional on the automaker meeting investment and job maintenance targets.

Provincial NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said she wanted to make sure there were firm job guarantees attached to the provincial money.

“We think it’s worthwhile to keep auto sector jobs in Ontario, but what we do want to make sure is that there’s value for the investment that taxpayers provide or that the government commits to with these grants,” she said.

“So with $85 million, what is the guarantee around keeping investment here and making sure that we continue to have the same workforce, that the 4,000 have their jobs guaranteed?”

Interim PC Leader Jim Wilson is pleased Honda will be expanding its Alliston plant in his riding, but said the government should not give big grants to a select few companies.

“I’m happy to see the jobs, but my preference would be for the government to get off this slippery slope of picking winners and losers and do the right thing for the economy, and for jobs, and lower (electricity) rates and taxes for all the businesses and let them — without government grants — create the jobs.”

Aside from securing 4,000 jobs at the three plants, the Honda project will bolster 1,500 suppliers who are paid about $2.1 billion a year to provide parts and services, Chenkin said.

It’s been almost 30 years since Honda became the first Japanese automaker to build a manufacturing plant in Ontario, building the Alliston factory in 1986.

Since then, the company has invested $3.9 billion in the province with plants that can produce 390,000 Civics and CRVs annually for the Canadian and North American markets, as well as for export. About 100,000 are sold in Canada.

Honda can also produce 240,000 four-cylinder engines annually in Alliston, where the first vehicles to roll off the line were Civics in 1988. Odyssey minivans were built in the second plant starting in 1998, with the engine factory opening 10 years later.

With files from Dana Flavelle and The Canadian Press

For the rest of the article with a video;
http://www.thestar.com/business/2014/11/06/honda_to_make_major_announcement_in_alliston.html

Honda partners with FirstElement Fuel to build ‘at least 12’ hydrogen stations in California

by Andrew Hard of www.digitaltrends.com

Toyota  has invested millions of dollars into expanding the hydrogen fuel infrastructure in the U.S., but the Japanese brand isn’t alone.

Honda, who just announced its own FCV Concept in Japan, is partnering with FirstElement Fuel to build several hydrogen stations across the state of California.

The automaker has pledged $13.8 million in financial assistance to the Newport Beach-based company, which in combination with state grants, could result in an additional 12 stations popping up across the Golden State.

“FirstElement Fuel is providing a vital piece of what is needed for a successful launch of fuel-cell vehicles,” said Steven Center, VP of Honda’s Environmental Business Development Office. “Through this collaboration, FirstElement will enable our customers to experience hydrogen refueling that is as reliable, convenient and consumer-friendly as the vehicles are.”

Earlier this year, FirstElement received an additional $27 million in grants from the California Energy Commission to construct 19 stations, and the state hopes to have 100 sites built by 2024. If things keep going the way they are, FirstElement could be directly responsible for nearly a third of them. Currently, there are nine public stations in California.

California law requires that 33 percent of all hydrogen produced in the state to come from ‘green’ renewable sources, such as refuse and even human waste. FirstElement expects its fueling stations to become profitable by around 2020.


For the rest of the article;
http://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/honda-partners-firstelement-fuel-build-least-12-hydrogen-stations-california/

Previously scrapped NSX design

Most of you will remember Honda's love affair with bringing moving forward with another NSX started a few years back and this was a direction that they were going before they scrapped this design for what they are doing now (below)....

Anyway, thought I'd pass it along.

Thanks again for the find Joseph McDaniels!

Next Generation Honda CRZ Speculation

Wouldn't it be nice if Honda abandoned the idea of making this car a Hybrid?  Tossed something like a 2.0L or a 2.4L under the hood and made it real CRX successor?

Only time will tell....

Thanks for the find Joseph McDaniels!

2016 Honda HR-V Video's

All-new 2016 Honda HR-V Crossover Makes North American Debut at 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

2016 Honda HR-V crossover – arriving early next year – delivers dynamic styling, incredibly spacious and versatile cabin and fun, fuel-efficient performance

Nov 19, 2014 - LOS ANGELES 

 

The all-new 2016 Honda HR-V crossover, unveiled today at the 2014 Los Angeles International Auto Show, blends the styling of a coupe, the toughness, space and utility of a SUV and the quality of a Honda in one sporty, personal and versatile multi-dimensional vehicle. The well-equipped HR-V, launching at Honda dealerships nationwide early next year, will enter the fast-growing entry crossover market with dynamic yet refined exterior styling, fun-to-drive performance, class-leading fuel economy ratings and unmatched interior spaciousness and cabin versatility.

Utilizing a new global platform, the all-new Honda HR-V has one of the most spacious and versatile cabins in its class. Utilizing its unique platform design with a center-mounted fuel tank and reconfigurable second-row "Magic Seat," the completely new HR-V has voluminous interior space along with a flexible cabin featuring multiple seating/cargo modes. With 100.1 cu. ft. of passenger volume (LX) and 58.8 cu. ft. of cargo volume with the second row seats down, the HR-V has space to rival some competitors' mid-size SUV offerings.

"The new HR-V crossover is a true segment-busting vehicle, unlike anything else on the market today," said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and general manager of the Honda Division. "It's got all the essential elements of our Honda DNA, our packaging innovation, fuel-efficient powertrain technology, leading safety technology and, above all, Honda quality, to make this an incredibly compelling, sporty and value-packed new member of the Honda family."

2016 HR-V Key Packaging Specifications
Wheelbase, in.	102.8
Length, in.	169.1
Width, in.	69.8
Height, in.	63.2
Passenger volume, cu. ft.	100.1 (LX), 96.1 (EX, EX-L)
Cargo volume, cu. ft.	24.3 rear seats up 58.8 rear seats down
Seating capacity	5

The HR-V's dynamic appearance and sporty, solid stance is aided by its coupe-like cabin shape and bold and powerful face, complemented by distinctive side contours, including a sharply upswept character line, deeply sculpted lower body form and the strong horizontal taper of both the front and rear fascia. Concealed rear door handles further enhance its coupe-like appearance.

The HR-V's sporty and sophisticated interior features an expansive, airy cockpit with an abundance of soft-touch materials and premium detailing punctuated by precise bezels, sophisticated stitch lines and upmarket brushed chrome and piano black highlights – all fitting its mission as a youthful yet refined personal crossover vehicle. The three-meter driver's instrument cluster features "floating" illumination rings and Honda's ECO Assist feature, wherein the speedometer illumination changes from white to green depending on the fuel efficiency of the driver's vehicle operation.

Power comes from a highly refined and responsive 1.8-liter SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with i-VTEC valvetrain producing a peak 138 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 127 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm (both SAE net). The engine is mated to a sporty and fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda "G-design" shift logic, or a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission (2WD models only). The HR-V is available in either two-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive drivetrain configurations. All-wheel-drive models feature Honda's Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System for outstanding all-weather traction and control. Driving efficiency, handling performance and cabin quietness are further aided by an aerodynamic shape and a lightweight yet rigid body structure with significant noise-insulating materials and design features.

In keeping with Honda's commitment to safety, the HR-V is expected to deliver top-in-class collision safety performance and incorporates Honda's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure, designed to more efficiently absorb and disperse the energy from a frontal collision. Standard safety and driver-assistive features include four-channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist; Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control; an Expanded View Driver's Mirror; a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera; dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, driver and front passenger SmartVent™ side airbags and side-curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions; and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The HR-V is anticipated to earn top collision safety ratings from the NHTSA (5-Star Overall Vehicle Score) and IIHS (Top Safety Pick).

Standard equipment on all HR-V models, available in LX, EX and EX-L trims, include power windows, power mirrors and power door and tailgate locks, electronic parking brake, rearview camera, aluminum-alloy wheels, tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® phone interface and Pandora radio. Higher trim models can be equipped with premium features including Honda's 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio telematics interface, Honda LaneWatch™, Smart Entry/Push-Button Start, paddle shifters, SiriusXM® radio, HD Radio™ and Honda Digital Traffic, heated front seats, a power sunroof, embedded navigation and leather trim.

The 2016 Honda HR-V is covered by a comprehensive 3-year/36,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Additional benefits of ownership include Honda Roadside Assistance, which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance during the 3-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty term. The HR-V will be manufactured alongside the Fit at Honda's newest North American auto plant, in Celaya, Mexico.

For More Information
Consumer information about all Honda vehicles is available at automobiles.honda.com. To join the Honda community on Facebook, visit https://www.facebook.com/Honda. To keep up with the most current media information about the 2016 Honda HR-V visit hondanews.com/channels/honda-automobiles-hr-v.

Autoblog gets a early peek at the North American Honda HR-V (Vezel)

Expecting this to land sometime in February (barring any set backs or train robberies) in Canada.

Check out the article and a few more pictures;
http://www.autoblog.com/2014/11/17/2016-honda-hr-v-la-2014/

Honda FCEV Concept Car Video

Nice

New Honda HR-V launched in Thailand with a 1.8L

Don't expect the Pana roof to make it's way to us here in North America, and I am not sure why....

Compact SUV comes with 1.8-litre engine with prices starting from 890,000 baht

Honda Automobiles Thailand has officially introduced the brand-new HR-V compact SUV with an annual sales target of 20,000 units.

Available in three trims ranging from 890,000 to 1.045 million baht, the HR-V comes with a 141hp 1.8-litre petrol engine capable of running on E85 gasohol. Power is transferred to the front wheels via a CVT automatic with seven-speed manual override.

A highlight of the HR-V is interior functionality, claimed by Honda to be just as versatile as in the Jazz hatchback.

The top-of-the-line EL model is being promoted with six airbags, sunroof, rear-view parking camera, electric parking brake and automatic brake hold function.

The decision by Honda to equip the HR-V with a 1.8-litre motor means that it isn’t a direct rival for the Ford Ecosport and Nissan Juke.

That explains why the HR-V’s prices are higher than those two aforementioned SUVs, although the price tags slot neatly below the CR-V, which comes with a bigger body and 2.0- and 2.4-litre engine options.

Such a strategy has fuelled speculation among market watchers that Honda is planning to slot an even smaller and cheaper SUV below the HR-V in the future.

Such an entry-level SUV could be based on the Brio and could prove popular among budget-conscious buyers in Asean, India and South America.

Source;
http://www.bangkokpost.com/auto/news/443821/new-honda-hr-v-launched

Honda FCV Concept Makes World Debut in Japan

Nov 16, 2014 - TOKYO

• Honda FCV Concept showcases the styling evolution of the next-generation zero emissions Honda fuel-cell vehicle
• Next-generation Honda FCV intends to provide significant gains in real-world performance, cost reduction, efficiency, packaging and appeal, including more than 300-mile driving range

The Honda FCV Concept, Honda's fuel-cell vehicle concept, made its world debut today in Japan. The Honda FCV Concept showcases the styling evolution of Honda's fuel-cell vehicle anticipated to launch in Japan by March of 2016, followed by U.S. and Europe.

As the next progression in Honda's dynamic FCV styling, the Honda FCV Concept features a low and wide aerodynamic body with clean character lines. The interior strives to achieve harmony between man and machine by taking advantage of new powertrain packaging efficiencies delivering even greater passenger space than its predecessor, the FCX Clarity, including seating for up to five people.

In an effort to support the wider introduction of fuel-cell vehicles, Honda will make an announcement at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show about its commitment to help expand and accelerate California's public hydrogen refueling station network.

Next-Generation Honda Fuel-Cell Vehicle
Honda's next-generation fuel-cell vehicle launching in 2016 applies a fuel-cell powertrain that fits completely within the front engine compartment of the vehicle, allowing for efficiencies in cabin space as well as flexibility in the potential application of fuel-cell technology to multiple vehicle models in the future. Significant technological advancements to the fuel-cell stack have yielded more than 100kW of power output. The power density is now 3.1kW/L, an increase of 60 percent, with the stack size reduced 33-percent compared to the Honda FCX Clarity. The next-generation Honda FCV is targeted to deliver a driving range of more than 300 miles with a quick refueling time of about three to five minutes at a pressure of 70 MPa.
 
Honda Fuel-Cell Vehicle Leadership
Honda has led the industry for nearly two decades in the development and deployment of fuel-cell technology through extensive real-world testing, including the first government fleet deployment and retail customer leasing program. Since the introduction of its first generation fuel-cell vehicle, the FCX, in 2002, Honda has made significant technological advancements in fuel-cell vehicle operation in both hot and sub-freezing weather while meeting customer expectations and safety regulations.

Honda has deployed vehicles in the U.S. and Japan, including the FCX Clarity, which was named the 2009 World Green Car. Honda has delivered these vehicles to individual retail consumers in the U.S. and collected valuable feedback concerning real-world use of both fuel-cell vehicles and public hydrogen stations.

Honda's current fuel-cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity, launched in July 2008 and was quickly heralded as a technological breakthrough in the areas of design, packaging and efficiency. As the world's first dedicated platform fuel-cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity features a striking silhouette and a low-slung cabin. With the V-flow fuel cell stack positioned in the center tunnel of the vehicle and the electric motor located down low in the front of the vehicle, Honda was able to maintain the Clarity's futuristic styling while allowing for 240 miles of driving range.

In the effort to speed the advance of a refueling infrastructure outside of California, in May 2013, American Honda joined the public-private partnership H2USA, which brings together  automakers, government agencies, hydrogen suppliers, and the hydrogen and fuel-cell industries to coordinate research and identify cost-effective solutions to deploy infrastructure that can deliver affordable, clean hydrogen fuel in the United States.

In June 2013, Honda entered into a long-term collaborative agreement with General Motors to co-develop the next-generation of fuel-cell systems and hydrogen storage technologies, aiming for the 2020 timeframe. The collaboration expects to succeed by sharing technological expertise, economies of scale and other benefits.

Honda Fuel-Cell Vehicle Firsts:
The original FCX became the first EPA- and CARB-certified fuel-cell vehicle in July 2002. The FCX also was the world's first production fuel-cell vehicle, introduced to the U.S. and Japan in December 2002.
Additional highlights include:

• The Honda FCX was the first fuel-cell vehicle to start and operate in sub-freezing temperatures (2003).
• The FCX was the first fuel-cell vehicle leased to an individual customer (July 2005).
• Honda was the first manufacturer to build and produce a dedicated fuel-cell vehicle (FCX Clarity) on a production line specifically made for fuel-cell vehicles (2008).
• Honda was the first manufacturer to create a fuel-cell vehicle dealer network (2008).

Honda Environmental Leadership
Based on its vision of "Blue Skies for our Children," Honda is taking a portfolio approach to reducing the environmental impact of its products, advancing fuel efficiency, low emissions and fun-to-drive performance with new powertrain technologies from its Earth Dreams Technology™ lineup, which includes more fuel-efficient engines and transmissions and advanced electromotive technologies. Honda's alternative-fuel vehicle lineup includes the Civic Hybrid, the CR-Z hybrid sport coupe and the Accord Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient 5-passenger sedan in America, as well as the Accord Plug-In Hybrid and the Civic Natural Gas, the only dedicated natural gas-powered passenger car available from a major automaker in America.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/releases/honda-fcv-concept-makes-world-debut-in-japan

Autoblog: Is Acura working on a premium minivan?

Hmmm....didn't see this coming.
The current Honda Odyssey has been out since 2011, which would mean that the next generation should be right around the corner, say 2016 if we go by their typical 5yrs full model change.  Which could mean that this is the next gen Honda Odyssey, although I can see the Acura 'beak' through the camo.  This wouldn't be the first time that Honda has used a different grill on a prototype (the CrossTour sported the Accord front end when it was being tested).

Check out the link for a full Autoblog write up and more pictures;
http://www.autoblog.com/2014/11/10/acura-minivan-spy-shots/

Automobilemag.com: Next-Gen Honda Civic Spotted Testing for the First Time

I'm not sure what to think about this, very different direction from 2006+....

By Kelly Pleskot of www.automobilemag.com

Our spy photographers spotted a prototype for the next-generation Honda Civic out testing for the first time, and it looks like major visual changes are on the way for the sedan. New photos reveal a racy fastback design that completely changes the overall look of the car.

Despite the camo, it is pretty clear that the new Honda Civic boasts a steeply-raked back end that tapers off into a bold spoiler. The model appears to have cutlines for a proper trunk, so it will not adopt a hatchback configuration, but instead retain its classification as a sedan. The rest of the Honda Civic's body complements the sporty back end. Angular headlights and tasteful character lines run across the entire body for a youthful, modern look.

For the rest of the article and wayyy more pictures;
http://www.automobilemag.com/features/news/1411-next-gen-honda-civic-spotted-testing-for-the-first-time/

Jalopnik: This Honda Is The Fastest Formula One Car Ever Made

by Raphael Orlove of www.jalopnik.com

You don't hear a lot about Honda's now-kaput single-seater program anymore, but they did build the fastest outright F1 car ever made.

Honda's F1 program wasn't a total loss. With rally legends Prodrive running BAR Honda, the team came second to the all-conquering Ferrari in 2004, for instance. Honda quit the sport before the '09 season, but their car (with some modification including a new Mercedes engine) absolutely dominated and won the championship as a Brawn. Brawn ended up getting sold to Mercedes, and the team has already won this year's manufacturer's title.

My favorite modern F1 moment for Honda came in 2006. It wasn't the worst year for the team, getting one race win and fourth place in the title standings, but it was far from the best, and the team could've used some publicity.

So they went to the Bonneville Salt Flats.

For the rest of the article;
http://jalopnik.com/this-honda-is-the-fastest-formula-one-car-ever-made-1658080684

Insiders Think There's Something 'Fundamentally Wrong' At Honda

Interesting read....

Honda's president and chief executive Takanobu Ito at an event to unveil the renewal hybrid sedan car "Legend" in Tokyo on Monday.

by Norihiko Shirouzu and Maki Shiraki, Reuters


Two former Honda Motor chiefs have called on CEO Takanobu Ito this year, urging him to focus more on quality issues, increasing the pressure he's already under from US regulators and politicians over mass air bag recalls.


Nobuhiko Kawamoto and Hiroyuki Yoshino made separate visits to Ito at the Japanese carmaker's Tokyo headquarters, three people familiar with the visits said. They said the former CEOs had a firm message for Ito, 61, urging him to act quickly on quality issues that risk damaging the Honda brand.

Honda has recalled some 9.5 million cars of various models since 2008 for potentially defective air bag inflators made by Takata Corp. It has also had five recalls of the electric-gasoline hybrid versions of its Fit subcompact car and Vezel crossover utility vehicle since their launch just last year, and five recalls on its Super Cub utility motorbike since 2011.

"We don't know how, but Honda is fraying around the edges," said one of the knowledgeable individuals, who was on Honda's management board in the 1980s and was briefed on the visits by Yoshino and Kawamoto. The people didn't want to be named as the meetings they described were private.

"All of us think there's something more fundamentally wrong with the company," he said, referring to a group of concerned Honda former senior executives. "But all the company's doing is to get through recalls one by one instead of comprehensively reviewing operations."

No Pressure To Quit

Kawamoto, 78, who was Honda CEO from 1990 to 1998, visited Ito last month and had "stern words," one of the knowledgeable individuals said, about the sharp rise in recent recalls.

"We think there's little sense of crisis at Honda," the knowledgeable former executive said. "That frustration drove Kawamoto to go out of his way to meet Ito. I'm not sure Ito got the point."

And earlier this year, Yoshino, a 75-year-old engineer who was Honda's CEO from 1998 to 2003, told Ito he must focus on day-to-day operations at Honda rather than accept an invitation to be head of Japan's automobile manufacturers association.

The knowledgeable individuals said there was no pressure from the former executives on Ito to resign. 
"There's a rumor that Kawamoto asked Ito to step down, but if that's true, Ito would be gone by now," one of them said.

Akemi Ando, a Honda spokeswoman in Tokyo, declined to comment specifically on the visits. "Generally speaking, visits from former executives are not that unusual. We receive advice from them on various issues," she said.

The message to Ito may be getting through.

Having agreed last month to take a pay cut of one-fifth for three months in the wake of the Fit recalls, he said this week he would put quality improvements ahead of Honda's sales targets, echoing Toyota chiefs' re-prioritisation five years ago when they were reeling from mass recalls over sudden-acceleration in some of their cars.


For the rest of the article;
http://www.businessinsider.com/r-exclusive-honda-grandees-chide-ceo-over-quality-recalls--2014-11

Honda S660 takes shape

Compact mid-engined sports coupe ready for Japanese launch, and a more powerful version could come here

Honda will not confirm the launch of its hot new mid-engined S660 mini-coupe outside of Japan just yet. But then again, it’s not denying it either. And that’s good news.

Why? Because we’ve heard stories before about Japan-only models not headed to certain major markets but eventually finding their way onto container ships.

Remember the Honda Jazz, the compact car that debuted in Japan in 2001, but took three long years to reach the US? The S660 looks like following in the Jazz’s footsteps. But its overseas debut could be much sooner and looks like packing a far bigger punch that the Japan-spec model.

Honda revealed the S660 last year's Tokyo motor show and, as we revealed in May, has confirmed it for production by January, before first examples hit Japanese showrooms in February. However, while Honda Australia is keen on the S660, it is yet to be confirmed for introduction in any export markets.

The rear-wheel drive mini-coupe employs a mid-engined, turbocharged 660cc petrol engine generating upwards of 48kW mated to a choice of either six-speed manual or CVT gearboxes, the latter with flappy paddles.

That doesn't sound like much, but when you're talking about a coupe that weighs well under 900kg, 48kW takes on a whole new meaning.

And this is where the story gets interesting. For those in Japan and other Asian markets who feel that 47kW just isn't enough, Honda is working on a tweaked S660 that delivers around 66kW and incorporates the best from the company’s aeroparts bin.

As can be seen in this artist’s impression of what the souped-up S660 could look like, the coupe will employ a carbon-fibre front spoiler and rear wing as well as flared wheel-arches and larger wheels.

But to an international audience of sports car enthusiasts that expects more power and thrills — especially from a company that boasts the NSX, S2000 and Civic Type-R — Honda is planning an even more powerful export model.

In addition to the 66kW version of the Japan-spec S660, our sources have revealed that Honda R&D is currently testing an export model – rumoured to be called the S1000 — that will be fitted with a more powerful 1.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine, wider body and bigger wheels.

We tested just such an engine in a Civic prototype last year and it showed great promise and pace with more than 103kW. Obviously Honda’s racing arm Mugen (which is currently putting the final touches on the McLaren-Honda F1 engine for 2015) will have a pivotal role in fine-tuning the hottest S660.

Honda is very much aware of the next-generation Mazda MX-5, due to hit showrooms late next year. While there will also be a 2.0-litre developing around 125kW, the base model will come with a 1.5-litre engine offering around 100kW — right in the S1000’s ballpark.

Also fresh in Honda product planning’s collective mind will be the recent collaboration of Caterham and Suzuki, who combined forces to create the Seven 160, a Caterham powered by a Suzuki-built 60kW 660cc three-cylinder turbocharged petrol.

The S660 and S1000 will take the ballgame right up to Mazda and Suzuki with a sharp-looking, mid-engined coupe that will offer Honda’s famed handling and short-throw gearboxes.

But Honda is not stopping there. Remember the electric EV-STER concept  that debuted at the 2011 Tokyo show? Strangely, or maybe not so, that coupe strongly resembled the S660.

So Honda may not have just built the S660 to accommodate small petrol engines, but also allowed for an EV powertrain to be dropped straight into its engine bay, thus creating a small electric city sports-commuter.

A mid-engined coupe with petrol and electric options? Could this be a sign of future things to come Honda? Expect the S1000 to emerge in early 2016 (around the same time the new NSX arrives in Australia) and the EV version to follow it by 2017.


Source;
http://www.motoring.com.au/news/2014/honda/honda-s660-takes-shape-47399

Honda Amaze Enters Guinness Book of World Records

By: Vikas Yogi

Started on 15th September 2014, Honda's 'Longest Drive through Amazing India' in Honda Amaze, entered the Guinness World Records, registering the longest journey by a car in a single country. The car covered a total of 23,800kms through mountainous terrains, coastlines, flag highways, congested city roads and the interior of India. Honda says that the car crossed over 400 towns in the 55 day-journey.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Hironori Kanayama, President & CEO of Honda Cars India Ltd, said "We are happy to announce that Honda Cars India has added yet another milestone to its journey by entering the Guinness World Records for the longest journey by car in a single country".

He further added, "The drive through various terrains is testimony to the durability, quality and reliability of Honda Amaze. These qualities have found their way into the Indian market and the car has garnered excellent response from the customers."

Honda launched the 'Honda Amazingly Indian Campaign' in September 2014. The campaign is spread across all the major media covering TV, radio and on-ground activities.

The company says that the drive has been very successful in creating a buzz around the Amaze. Honda Amaze's new and existing customers joined the travellers at various stage of the journey.

The 'Longest Drive through Amazing India' will be followed by a series of "webisodes" on 'Drive through Amazing India' which will be hosted by author Chetan Bhagat.

In this web series, Chetan Bhagat will be travelling to the unexplored places of India which will be followed by contests, wherein people will be asked to post stories or photos about unexplored places of Amazing India. The short-listed candidates will further get a chance to travel and explore remarkable places of India.

The campaign was initiated to celebrate the success of Honda Amaze in the country and for reaching 100,000 units sales milestone. This is the fastest in the history of Honda Cars India Ltd (HCIL).

Source;
http://auto.ndtv.com/news/honda-amaze-enters-guinness-book-of-world-records-691125

2017, the year of the Acura Integra/RSX Successor; Acura chief designer Dave Marek has revealed

Pure Speculation....

"Are we finally going to get a replacement for the Acura Integra/RSX? You could see that Acura chief designer Dave Marek wanted to spill the beans here at the SEMA show about the plans for Honda’s long-floundering luxury brand, but he was prevented by the watchful presence of a company PR rep. All he was able to say was this: “A performance brand needs a flagship and it needs an accessible sport car. Not a sports car, but a sport car.”

Full Car and Driver Artical;
http://blog.caranddriver.com/a-new-acura-integra-just-wait-were-told/

2015 Honda Fit takes SEMA Show by Storm

Kylie Tjin Special Edition 2015 Honda Fit.

Bisimoto 2015 Honda Fit Turbo.

For all ton more pictures;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2015-honda-fit-takes-sema-show-by-storm/photos/2015-honda-fit-performance-project-trophy

11/04/2014 - LAS VEGAS

• Fit wins SEMA Award as "Hottest Sport Compact"
• Tjin Edition voted Fan Favorite in the 2015 Fit Performance Project
• HPD displays extensive line of available racing "crate motors"

The all-new 2015 Honda Fit  (automobiles.honda.com/fit/) arrived at the 2014 SEMA Show in strength, with nine personalized versions on display in the Honda booth, quickly winning the coveted SEMA Award as the "Hottest Sport Compact" at a ceremony formally opening the show. The Honda booth at the SEMA Show is highlighted by the Fit customized by Tjin Edition, voted as the Fan Favorite in the 2015 Fit Performance Project, which enabled fans to track the build processes of several teams through an interactive Honda Tumblr site.

"The 2015 Fit is a worthy addition to Honda's strong heritage of developing tuned sport compact vehicles, and it wears the mantle of "Hottest Sport Compact" well," said Jeff Conrad, SVP & General Manager of Honda Division, American Honda Motor Co, Inc. "Fun to drive, versatile and a great value, the new Fit does so many things right, and it's great to see it becoming a popular platform for owner personalization."

Over the past few months, Honda and its fans followed the progress of six build teams that customized the all-new 2015 Fit through an ambitious project vehicle program and interactive Tumblr experience dubbed the 2015 Fit Performance Project (#ProjectFit). The six build teams, Tjin Edition, voted Fan Favorite; Bisimoto Engineering; Kontrabrands; MAD Industries; Spoon Sports USA; and the award-winning Kenny Vinces, each personalized the Fit virtually in public, something rarely seen in a very competitive industry. Photos, video and animated GIFs of the transformations in progress were posted throughout the campaign at hondaloves.tumblr.com where fans ultimately voted for their favorite build.

Three additional personalized 2015 Honda Fit vehicles are on display in the automaker's booth including a Fit B-spec race car prepped for competition by Honda Performance Development (HPD), Honda's North American racing company; a Fit loaded with available dealer-installed Honda Genuine Accessories; and an additional Fit personalized by prominent tuner, Bisimoto, on behalf of Norm Reeves Honda in response to fan feedback prompted through the 2015 Fit Performance Project.

HPD is back at the SEMA Show displaying its extensive line of racing engines which are available for purchase for sanctioned racers in North America. HPD has long supported grassroots through pinnacle racing, and the display highlights the broad spectrum of available engines ranging from go-cart motors to IndyCar and ALMS engines. Please refer to the separate HPD SEMA Show press release for full details on the display or visit hpd.honda.com/racing-line/racing-line-store for consumer information.

Bringing a "fun to ride" element to the Honda display, a range of Honda Powersports products help highlight Honda's broad range of enthusiast oriented products beyond automobiles. On display at the show: the Pioneer 500 side by side, the NC700X, CBR300R, and the wildly popular Grom.

After viewing all of the impressive vehicle displays at the 2014 SEMA Show, attendees with media credentials are also invited to celebrate at the second annual "Honda Soiree" on Nov. 4 from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Tao Nightclub inside the Venetian hotel complex. Members of the media are invited to visit the Honda booth in the Central Hall at the SEMA Show on Nov. 4, where a limited number of media entry wristbands will be available.

About Honda
Honda offers a full line of reliable, fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive automobiles for American car buyers through approximately 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. The Honda lineup includes the Accord, Crosstour, Civic, Fit, CR-Z and Insight along with the Pilot, and CR-V sport-utility vehicles and the Odyssey minivan.

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for more than 30 years and currently operates 16 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2013, more than 94 percent of all Honda vehicles sold in U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

About Honda Powersports
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the U.S. American Honda's Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers.
For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com.

Summary of Vehicles on Display at the American Honda Booth
Honda Automobile Display
2015 Honda Fit EX equipped with Honda Genuine Accessories
From Honda Performance Development
2015 Honda Fit HPD B-SPEC Concept Race Car
#28 Andretti Autorsport DHL Show Car – Winner of the 2014 Indianapolis 500 (replica)
HPD Supercharged CR-Z IndyCar Series Pace Car
HI13RT IndyCar Engine
HPD K20 Formula Atlantic Engine
HPD L15A7 Formula F Engine
CRF250 Karting Engine
GXH50 Karting Engine
CR125 Karting Engine
GX120 .25 Midget Engine
GX160 .25 Midget Engine
AR35TT GT Engine

Project Vehicles⁵
Bisimoto Engineering 2015 Honda Fit for Norm Reeves Honda
Bisimoto 2015 Honda Fit Turbo
Bisimoto 2015 Honda Fit Spec Car
Kontrabrands, LLC A.M.L. (Active Metropolitan Lifestyle) Honda Fit
Spoon Sports Super Taikyu 2015 Honda Fit
Kylie Tjin Special Edition Fit

Powersports Display
Pioneer side-by-side
Grom
CBR300R
NC700X
⁵ Aftermarket project vehicles. All modification information listed was provided by the vehicle builders and has not been confirmed by American Honda Motor Co., Inc. The modifications to these vehicles may void the manufacturer's warranty, may not be legal for street driving in all 50 states and have not been specifically suggested, recommended or approved by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2015-honda-fit-takes-sema-show-by-storm