Honda’s all-new, spacious, five-passenger, low-emissions vehicle earned an EPA range rating of 47 all-electric miles
Honda announced the 2018 Clarity Plug-in Hybrid
earned the highest all-electric range rating among all midsize plug-in
hybrids with its EPA range rating of 47 miles on a full charge1.
Launching at dealerships nationwide later this year, the Clarity
Plug-in Hybrid also received an EPA fuel economy rating of 110 combined
MPGe1, among the top of its class, and a gasoline only 44/40/42 MPG rating (city/highway/combined)1.
"We think the combination of a class-leading 47 miles of all-electric
driving range rating and a large, luxurious 5-pasenger package will
give us an advantage in the plug-in hybrid game," said Ray Mikiciuk,
assistant vice president of Honda Auto Sales at American Honda Motor Co.
"The Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid represents the dawn of a new era,
setting the path to a new generation of Honda products that will bring
electrified technology into the mainstream."
For longer trips, the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid can utilize its
hyper-efficient 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine to generate
electricity and, under certain conditions, to act as a direct power
source, resulting in an overall EPA driving range rating of 340 miles1.
The vehicle's electromotive power comes from a 181-horsepower
electric motor producing 232 lb.-ft. of torque and drawing power from
both the gasoline engine and a 17-kilowatt hour (kWh) battery pack with a
recharge time of just 2.5 hours at 240 volts. The Clarity Plug-in
Hybrid features three selectable modes – Normal, Econ and Sport –
allowing drivers to customize their experience, maximizing efficiency or
driving performance. A fourth mode – HV mode – is provided to maintain
the battery's state of charge and can be selected in conjunction with
Normal, Econ and Sport driving modes.
Expected to be the volume sales leader in the Clarity series lineup,
the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid will be offered in two premium-contented
trims, standard and Touring.
Honda Clarity Series The Clarity Plug-in Hybrid is part of Honda’s Clarity series, which includes the Clarity Fuel Cell, launched in December 2016, and the Clarity Electric,
launched in August 2017. Clarity is a vehicle series offering customers
an array of electrified powertrain choices in one sophisticated,
spacious and comprehensively equipped five-passenger sedan, outfitted
with premium, environmentally responsible materials.
Offering Honda's "fun-to-drive" DNA, each Clarity variant provides a
smooth, quiet and highly refined driving experience, aided by the
seamless character of electric drive torque and acceleration. The
Clarity series also features advanced technologies, including Display
Audio with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ integration, and the full
suite of Honda Sensing® safety and driver-assistive technologies.
The Clarity series is at the leading edge of the Honda
Electrification Initiative, which includes the previously announced
intention to have two-thirds of Honda's global automobile sales come
from electrified vehicles by 2030. This initiative includes a new
dedicated hybrid car launching next year, an all-new Accord Hybrid, the
Clarity series, and the expanded application of Honda's two-motor hybrid
and plug-in hybrid powertrains to multiple car and light truck models
in the future.
1. Based on 2018 model-year EPA ratings. Use for comparison
purposes only. Your MPG/MPGe and range will vary depending on driving
conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, lithium-ion battery
pack age/condition and other factors.
Next-generation two-motor hybrid powertrain expected to receive class-leading EPA fuel economy ratings; including 49 mpg city
Most powerful and refined midsize hybrid sedan with 212 total combined horsepower
Honda Sensing™ safety and driver-assistive technologies standard
Doubled production capacity for expected sales increase
Honda will bolster its Accord lineup with the launch of the 2017
Accord Hybrid this spring, featuring a more powerful and efficient
second-generation two-motor hybrid powertrain that has the highest EPA
fuel economy ratings of any midsize hybrid sedan and delivers the most
power. With improved production methods and supplies of hybrid
components, Honda is anticipating significant growth in sales of Accord
Hybrid and is targeting annual sales to be more than double its previous
best of just under 14,000 vehicles in 2014.
"The new Honda Accord Hybrid is the ultimate Accord – the most
refined, technologically sophisticated and, of course, most fuel
efficient in the lineup," said John Mendel, Executive Vice President of
the American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "With Accord already America's most
popular car three years running and the best-selling midsize car to
younger buyers, we think this new hybrid model will add considerable
momentum for the Honda brand."
In addition to its more powerful and fuel efficient hybrid
powertrain, the 2017 Accord Hybrid carries the substantial upgrades made
to the entire Accord lineup for model year 2016. This includes the
latest technology Honda has to offer, including the available Display
Audio with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and the Honda Sensing™
suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, to be
offered as standard equipment on all new 2017 Accord Hybrids.
Hybrid-exclusive design features include a special aluminum hood and
wheels, blue highlighted LED headlights and taillights and "Hybrid"
exterior badging. A more compact hybrid battery pack increases trunk
capacity to a midsize hybrid class-leading 13.5 cu.-ft.
Combining the next generation of Honda's two-motor hybrid system with an ultra-efficient 2.0-liter i-VTEC
Atkinson Cycle engine, the 2017 Accord Hybrid powertrain will achieve
peak combined output of 212 horsepower, the highest of any midsize
hybrid sedan and up 16 horsepower over the 2015 Accord Hybrid. EPA fuel
economy ratings of 49/47/48 (city/highway/combined)1 put the
Accord Hybrid at the top of the class for ratings, making it the most
powerful and fuel efficient midsize hybrid sedan in America. These EPA
fuel economy ratings are based on new, more stringent ratings
requirements enacted by the U.S. EPA for the 2017 model year. Based on
the new requirements, Honda estimates the 2015 Accord Hybrid ratings
would be 48/45/47 (actually rated at 50/45/47 under the previous
method), indicating a +1/+2/+1 increase for the 2017 model over the
previous version.
The Accord Hybrid's two-motor hybrid powertrain takes an elegant and
innovative approach to hybrid power, eliminating the need for a
conventional mechanical transmission. The Accord Hybrid's powertrain
seamlessly transitions between three operations:
EV Drive – using its electric propulsion motor and lithium ion
battery pack drives the front wheels for short distances under light
loads (with the engine turned off)
Hybrid Drive – the electric propulsion motor drives the front wheels
while the gasoline engine powers a second motor/generator to supplement
electrical current drawn from the battery pack
Engine Drive – using a lock-up clutch mechanism to connect the
engine and propulsion motor, the front wheels are driven by both the
motor and gasoline engine.
With its next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™)
body structure and Honda Sensing™ technology, the 2017 Accord is
anticipated to receive the highest available crash safety rating from
the U.S. government – a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA –
and a similar top rating of TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The 2017 Accord Hybrid will be available in three trims – Hybrid,
Hybrid EX-L and Hybrid Touring – and all grades will feature increased
levels of standard and available equipment. New standard features
include a wide angle rearview camera, remote engine start and Honda
Sensing™, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™),
Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Road
Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Forward
Collision Warning (FCW). Available new features on upper trims include a
7-inch Display Audio touchscreen with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlayâ
compatibility, heated rear seats, and front and rear parking sensors.
The Accord has been named a Car and Driver magazine "10Best"
an unprecedented 30 times and has been the most popular car in America
with retail car buyers for three consecutive years.2 The
Accord is on track to earn a fourth straight year as America's most
popular car with sales up 12.3 percent through the first three months of
2016. Accord also is the most popular midsize car with Millennials and
has been #1 with under-35-year-olds for four consecutive years and leads
all other cars in America, except Honda's own Civic, in sales to under
under-35 car buyers since 2010.3
The 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid will make its first public appearance at
the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, Calif., as part of the
aquarium's Earth Day weekend celebrations on April 23-24.
About Honda
Honda offers a full line of reliable, fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive
vehicles with advanced safety technologies sold through approximately
1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. The Honda lineup includes the Fit,
Civic and Accord passenger cars, along with the HR-V, CR-V and Pilot
sport/utility vehicles, the soon-to-be-launched Ridgeline pickup and the
Odyssey minivan.
Honda has been producing automobiles in America for 33 years and
currently operates 18 major manufacturing facilities in North America.
In 2015, more than 99 percent of all Honda vehicles sold in the U.S.
were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.
Honda Commitment to the Environment
Based on its vision of "Blue Skies for our Children," Honda is
working to advance technologies that address society's environmental and
energy concerns. Honda is targeting a 50 percent reduction in its total
company CO2 emissions on a global basis by 2050, compared to 2000 levels.
Honda will introduce a new 2017 Accord Hybrid and the Clarity Series
of advanced alternative-fuel vehicles, beginning with the new,
hydrogen-powered Clarity Fuel Cell later in 2016, followed by new
Clarity Battery Electric and Clarity Plug-In in 2017, as the company
strives to realize significant growth in sales of electrified vehicles.
The company is also demonstrating its vision for zero-carbon mobility and
living though initiatives like its Honda Smart Home US, in Davis,
California, which is designed to operate with half the energy use and CO2 emissions of a typical home in that region.
Honda and the Aquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific is a non-profit organization committed to
"instilling a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific
Ocean, its inhabitants and ecosystems" by providing engaging,
entertaining, educational and empowering exhibits and programs on the
Pacific Ocean and the lives of its inhabitants.
As a founding sponsor of the Aquarium of the Pacific, Honda supports
this world-class venue for education and environmentalism that is
visited by over 200,000 school children and nearly 1.5 million visitors
each year. Honda's financial donations to the Aquarium assist in its
efforts for marine conservation, education and community-outreach
programs. Honda's initial sponsorship consisted of the 150-seat Honda
Theater. In 2012 Honda became sponsor of the "Blue Cavern presented by
Honda" where on-site daily dive educational lectures are held and
explain how some of the animals in the exhibit are collected using
aquarium collection boats powered by Honda marine engines.
In 2016 Honda is entering into an agreement to become the title
sponsor for Pacific Visions Theater, a 14,000 square foot 300-seat in
the round theatrical 4D experience, due to open in 2018.
Honda's Insight has never enjoyed the success of the Toyota Prius or
even Honda's own Civic Hybrid, and it looks like the writing is now
finally on the wall for the budget hybrid hatchback.
According to Autoblog Green, sources within the company have revealed that some preparation procedures normally associated with a new model
launch--such as preparing advertising materials--are not taking place.
It suggests that Honda doesn't intend to extend the Insight into the
2015 model year.
Few will shed a tear at this news, though it does leave a gap at the
lower end of the hybrid market. Despite the Insight's compact body, it's
actually the cheapest hybrid vehicle on sale--undercutting the Toyota Prius C by a small margin and significantly undercutting Honda's own Civic Hybrid.
At the same time, the Insight has never really enjoyed the sales
success of Toyota's hybrids. While admirably efficient in real-world
driving its 42 mpg combined economy rating doesn't really stand out, and
its 1.3-liter Integrated Motor Assist hybrid drivetrain offers only
modest performance.
Honda itself has neither confirmed nor denied the rumors, but it wouldn't come as a shock if Honda does pull the plug.
Last year, we described the Insight as the "forgotten hybrid"--with
low sales since its introduction in 2009, scraping 20,000 units in its
first two years and little over 15,000 in 2011. In 2012, the model sold just 22,440 units globally--one seventeenth the number of Prius sold worldwide despite a much lower price tag.
It looks unlikely Honda will bring an Insight replacement to the U.S. either, even if it produces one for other markets.
That gap could instead be filled by the next-generation Honda Fit Hybrid, a car we drove in Japan last month. The Insight is based on the previous Fit's floorpan, and it's likely a future model would use the new Fit's underpinnings.
The Fit has always sold better than the Insight--moving nearly 50,000
units last year and as many as 79,000 in 2008--so it makes much more
sense to import that model, rather than try another Insight. Whether
Honda will or not is a different matter...
This year’s Shanghai
auto show display spaces were filled with numerous models of hybrid and
electric cars – which maybe is a sign that the global auto market is
moving in that general direction. It may also be a loud signal to China
to consider greener automobile solutions, what with the massive clouds
of smog that covered the cities these past few months. But Honda Motor Co. CEO Takanobu Ito believes that the Chinese market might not be quite into hybrid cars yet.
Of the four new concept and production cars displayed by the Japanese
carmaker at the Shanghai auto show on Saturday, none were hybrids or
electric. Honda put out three hybrid vehicles available to the Chinese
market last year – the CR-Z, Insight and Fit Hybrid – but the automaker
revealed that it only sold 542 hybrid units in China in the whole of
2012. “Overall, we have high hopes for hybrid technology. In terms of
how important it is to the Chinese market we are slowly releasing
products and looking at how they do,” Mr. Ito said in Shanghai on
Saturday. “But we think there are still more Chinese consumers who want
to simply buy a car that fits their needs rather than buy a hybrid. By
needs I mean a good-quality car with an affordable price that doesn’t
break down. At present, we think these take higher priority.” The
current atmosphere regarding hybrids could eventually change, Ito
allowed. He said that the hybrid mentality needs a push from the Chinese
government, by incorporating higher fuel-economy standards and the
government’s overall backing for a green-car industry. Honda is even
making plans to produce hybrid components and parts in the country in
2014.
Ito admitted that hybrid car
technology would cost a bit more no matter what, and at this point this
is something that Chinese consumers are not yet willing to pay. If,
like in Japan, the Chinese government gives incentives and subsidies
towards green car purchases, the mentality could start changing in that
direction. Ito pledged that Honda will continue to offer hybrid vehicles
to the Chinese market, and gradually grow its list of available models
more and more, if the Chinese government makes good on enacting policies
that would make hybrids the more attractive option for Chinese car
buyers.
Given the low sales volumes of the 2012 Honda Civic, the Japanese
automaker still has enough units left in Canada not to order 2013
models.
Despite the Civic being the most popular car in the country for the past
decade and a half, Honda Canada sold a mere 150 Civic Hybrids last
year. This poor performance may be due to harsh criticism of the car's
real-world fuel economy, which is said to be only marginally better than
the regular Civic's.
Also, it wouldn't make much sense to offer a 2013 Civic Hybrid with Honda's new 2014 models about to hit the market.
The 2013 Honda Accord has already started selling and will get two hybrid versions. Honda took the opportunity at the Los Angeles Auto Show
to announce the pricing for the 2014 Accord Plug-In. In addition, Honda
confirmed that a regular hybrid model will follow next summer. Honda
has already confirmed the Plug-In Hybrid awhile back but has revealed
that the Accord PHEV
will begin to sell in only a few short weeks. By January 15, buyers in
New York and California will be able to get their Accord PHEV, priced
from $40,570, including destination costs. A hybrid tax credit has yet
to be confirmed. For this price, consumers get an Accord with a design
that’s slight different for improved aerodynamics. All of the Accord
Touring creature comforts and features (such as forward collision and
lane departure warnings, as well as a rear-facing LaneWatch camera) can
offer up to 115 MPGe, the EPA said. The Accord PHEV has an
electric-vehicle-only range of 13 miles.
At this point, the gasoline engine would kick in. It has an overall
fuel economy of 47 mpg city, 46 mpg highway, 46 mpg combined. The range
is slightly shorter than extended-range electric vehicles such as the
Chevrolet Volt but the outcome is that drivers could recharge their
Accord plug-ins in shorter than one hour with a 240-volt charger or
three hours with the use of a 120-volt outlet. Furthermore, the Accord
PHEV is eligible for California’s vaunted “Access OK”
carpool-lane-exemption stickers, which permits single commuters to
utilize HOV lanes.
There will be a less expensive hybrid available if the Plug-In costs
too much. The 2013 Honda Accord Hybrid will appear more like the Honda
Accords with traditional gas engines but it offers 49 mpg city, 45 mpg
highway, 47 mpg combined due to its next-generation, two-motor Hybrid
system that should offer a performance and economy that’s better than
the current Integrated Motor Assist unit. These figures are nearly
totally in line with those of the Ford Fusion Hybrid, which claims 47
mpg in the city, on the highway, and in combined driving.
Honda has announced that it has managed to sell one million
hybrid vehicles, some 13 years after the first generation Insight went
on sale in Japan, which at the time was the world’s most fuel-efficient
gasoline-powered vehicle.
They managed to reach 100,000 units sold in April of 2005, following the
2004 launch of the Accord Hybrid, for the North American market.
Following the launch of the second generation Insight, in February of
2009, and the CR-Z and Fit Hybrid in 2010, by the end of the year they
had totaled 600,000 sold.
The last hybrid to be launched, which made a difference, is the Acura
ILX hybrid, which is only available in Canada and the US. Their range of
hybrids now totals 8 models, which are sold in some 50 countries around
the world, and have a very devoted audience.
Honda Motor Co. won the reversal of a $9,867 small-claims-court loss
to a Californian who dropped out of a class-action lawsuit and pursued
her own claim that the company overstated the fuel mileage of its Civic
Hybrid.
Judge Dudley W. Gray II of state Superior Court in
Torrance, in Los Angeles County, ruled Wednesday in the case of Heather
Peters, according to an entry on the court docket.
Peters had
rejected the class-action settlement, which paid car owners $100 or $200
depending on the model and as much as $1,500 credit toward a new
vehicle. Peters and plaintiffs in the larger suit challenged the
company's claim that the car gets 50 miles per gallon of fuel.
A
small-claims judge in February agreed with Peters that Honda's
advertising misrepresented the mileage of her 2006 Civic Hybrid and
awarded her damages. He rejected Honda's claims that it's stuck with the
estimate provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
About 1,700 Honda owners have opted out of the class-action settlement, according to Peters's website about the case.
The 2012 Honda Insight gets a new look, some new features and (believe it or not!) even better fuel economy.
An increasingly crowded hybrid field now includes the Ford Fusion, the Kia Optima and, of course, the venerable Toyota Prius. All are pricier, except the new 2012 Toyota Prius c, which offers a nearly price-level competitor for the Insight. Honda's looking to at last gain some ground on the Prius in 2012 with numerous updates, most subtle on their own, but together adding up to a pretty comprehensive update.
Outside, a thin, blue accent bar has been introduced on the grille to denote its high-tech hybrid identity, while restyled bumpers contribute to a 2% increase in aerodynamics. New headlight and brake light internal reflectors, slightly wider tires and new 15-inch wheel covers round out exterior tweaks.
Inside, a reconfigured rear seat offers improved legroom and head room, and the gauge cluster gets a more technically sophisticated look. Cupholders are bigger, seat fabric is posher, and the cabin is quieter. A rearview camera is now available, packaged with an upgraded optional navigation system.
Honda's Integrated Motor Assist featuring a 1.3L i-VTEC 4-cylinder gas engine and 10-kW electric motor develops 98 combined hp at 5,800 rpm and 123 lb-ft of torque at 1,000-1,700 rpm; new friction-reducing measures and a CVT automatic transmission mean fuel economy improvements this year. Its Eco Assist System further enhances the efficiency of throttle control, CVT operation, idle-stop duration, air conditioning and cruise operation, and provides feedback on driving style via a 3D-ish background in the speedo: green for really efficient, blue for not-so-much.
Fuel economy is now rated at 4.7L/100km around town and 4.4L/100km on the highway.
One trim, the LX, is available starting at $21,990.
Los Angeles— A Southern California woman took Honda to small-claims court and won in a big way. Los Angeles Superior Court Commissioner Douglas Carnahan ruled Wednesday that the automaker misled Heather Peters about the potential fuel economy of her hybrid car and awarded her $9,867 — much more than the couple hundred dollars cash that a proposed class-action settlement is offering. "At a bare minimum Honda was aware ... that by the time Peters bought her car there were problems with its living up to its advertised mileage," Carnahan wrote in the judgment. Honda disagrees with the judgment rendered in the case and plans to appeal the decision, company spokesman Chris Martin said in a statement. Peters, a former lawyer, said she is renewing her legal license after a 10-year lapse so she can represent other Honda owners who have the same problems she did. "Wow! Fantastic. I am absolutely thrilled," she said when the Associated Press informed her of the judge's decision. "Sometimes big justice comes in small packages. This is a victory for Honda Civic owners everywhere." Carnahan included in his 26-page decision a long list of misleading representations by Honda that he said Peters had correctly identified. Among them were that the car would use "amazingly little fuel," "provides plenty of horsepower while still sipping fuel," and that it would "save plenty of money on fuel with up to 50 mpg during city driving." "Actual performance of plaintiff's vehicle did not live up to these standards," he said. He noted that when she began receiving much less than the advertised mileage, "she knew she had a problem." Peters opted out of the class-action lawsuit so she could try to claim a larger damage award for her 2006 Honda Civic's failure to deliver the 50 mpg that was promised. The proposed class-action settlement would give aggrieved owners $100 to $200 each and a $1,000 credit toward the purchase of a new car. Legal fees in the class action would give trial lawyers $8.5 million, Peters said. In small claims court, there are no attorneys' fees and cases are decided quickly. Peters had hoped to inspire a flood of small-claims lawsuits by the other 200,000 people whose Honda Civic hybrids are covered by the proposed settlement. If all 200,000 owners sued and won in small claims court, she said, it could cost Honda Motor Co. $2 billion. Peters launched a website, DontSettleWithHonda.org, and said she was contacted by hundreds of other car owners seeking guidance on filing small claims lawsuits if they opted out of the class-action case. But legal experts say it's unlikely that many owners would take the small-claims route because of the time and energy involved in pursuing such lawsuits. Carnahan found that Honda did commit fraud, but he could not find intentional fraud and thus did not award punitive damages. Most of the damages Peters was awarded were for extra money spent on fuel, both in the past and future, the cost of the car battery, and the decrease in the car's value because of its problems. A judge in San Diego County is due to rule in March on whether to approve Honda's class-action settlement. Members of the class have until Feb. 11 to accept or decline the deal.
Honda just introduced a bevy of energy-frugal cars at the Tokyo Motor Show and vowed to cut carbon emissions by 30% from year 2000 levels on all its vehicles by 2020.
But perhaps more interesting were remarks to reporters indicating that another Accord hybrid is on the way, wire services reported. The model was discontinued in the U.S. after poor sales, mostly because it didn't save much gas, as it modified a V-6, instead of a four-cylinder, engine.
"For such a future, the most important challenge we need to address right now is the improvement of the efficiency of gasoline and diesel-powered internal combustion engines," said CEO Takanobu Ito.
To get there, he says he hopes to modify gas and diesel engines and combine them with continuously variable transmissions, or CVTs.
As a down payment on Honda's greenness, he showed off the EV-ster concept, an electric rear-wheel-drive two-seater convertible sports car. He says it has an electric range of about 80 miles and is steered with a pair of levers.
The upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show will see Honda revealing the 2012MY Insight hybrid alongside the European market 2012 Civic 5d hatchback. But for now, we get the first official photograph and initial information on the Japanese carmaker's Prius rival.
The big news for the 2012 model year is that, for the first time, the Honda hybrid model's CO2 emissions drop below the 100 g/km mark, to 96 g/km.
The automaker say this has been achieved thanks to a series of enhancements, which include reduced engine friction, changes to the CVT transmission and to the air conditioning that benefits from a new cold storage system, further aiding the reduction of fuel consumption.
The 2012 MY Insight also features some subtle exterior changes, with the most notable being the new front grille and the redesigned front bumper. A slimmer spoiler at the rear allows for a larger glass area, and, along with the smaller wiper, better rear visibility.
Honda’s engineers have also changed the suspension settings in order to improve both stability and ride comfort, while changes on the interior are limited to the use of higher quality materials.
Full details are to be announced at a later date.
Honda R&D chief Tomohiko Kawanabe has confirmed that the firm is working on a high-performance CR-Z hybrid.
In an exclusive interview with Autocar, Kawanabe admitted that development work on the more powerful two-door has started, and that — contrary to earlier reports — it will keep its IMA hybrid system.
“It’s true: we are working on a more powerful CR-Z,” he said. “Our problem with the car as it stands is that it looks very good, but it doesn’t have the performance some customers expect.” Autocar’s sources suggest that Honda might turn to a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine for the new CR-Z, but Kawanabe refused to confirm this.
"The decision on the engine hasn’t been made,” he said. “Turbocharging is an option, but a high-compression petrol engine would work better in tandem with a hybrid assist system.”
It is highly likely that the faster CR-Z will use Honda’s next-generation IMA system, which will appear first in the US-market Civic Hybrid next year.
Featuring lithium ion batteries, the new IMA will be capable of producing twice as much power as Honda’s nickel-metal hydride system, without requiring a larger battery.
A more sophisticated coupling should also allow it to fully disengage from the engine during brake energy regeneration (something the current IMA system can’t do), allowing it to recapture more kinetic energy to recycle as electric power.
The problem for the CR-Z’s performance will be Honda’s efficiency targets. “It will not be acceptable for the new car to be less fuel efficient than the current one,” Kawanabe said. “The CR-Z must deliver low CO2 emissions, as well as be fun to drive.”
That being the case, a combined petrol-electric power increase to 160bhp is likely, delivered without compromising fuel efficiency thanks to that more powerful hybrid system. Matt Saunders
The new line of mid-sized plug-in hybrids that Honda Motor Co. aims to introduce next year will be able to travel up to 15 miles in electric-only mode, an executive says.
That would counter criticism that Honda's current hybrid technology is too weak to provide extended motor-only travel. The Integrated Motor Assist system used in the Honda Insight, Civic and CR-Z hybrids uses the electric motor mostly to assist the gasoline engine.
The new technology, which is scheduled to debut in 2012, is a two-motor system that runs on a lithium ion battery. The battery will be supplied through Blue Energy Co., Honda's battery joint venture with GS Yuasa Corp, said Hirohisa Ogawa, a chief engineer of battery research at Honda. Ogawa, speaking at the International Rechargeable Battery Expo in Tokyo, said the new plug-ins would be able to run nine to 15 miles in electric-only mode.
Honda began testing the vehicles late last year, he added.
President Takanobu Ito has said his engineers are preparing to put the system in the Accord mid-sized sedan. Honda discontinued an earlier hybrid Accord, which was equipped with the Integrated Motor Assist system.
Not for North America.... The Jazz Hybrid made its world motor show debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, further demon-strating Honda's continuing commitment to petrol-electric hybrid technology.
The new version will be sold alongside a revised version of the petrol Jazz and marks the first time a parallel hybrid vehicle has been available to B-segment consumers. Importantly the Jazz Hybrid will not lose any of the practicality of the conventional car, with the compact nature of the Honda IMA system allowing the B-segment car to retain its ultra-flexible "Magic Seats" and 300 litres of boot space.
The IMA battery pack and power control unit have been integrated in the area under the boot floor, retaining the normal boot area and allowing the "Magic Seats" to fold in the same manner as non-hybrid versions. This means that the seats still fold entirely flat to provide a surprising (1320 litres measured to the roof) of space or the seat bases can be folded up vertically, so as to accommodate tall items within the car. New to the petrol-electric and conventionally powered versions of the Jazz is the reclining rear seat, which can now be tilted back, increasing rear passenger flexibility.
The IMA hybrid system is shared with the Insight and CR-Z hybrids, taking advantage of the proven reliability of this important technology. With almost two decades of development and 10 years of sales, the Honda IMA system has proven itself to be a flexible and dependable system, with over half a million vehicles on the road benefitting from its combination of low emissions and fuel economy.
The new model features the same powertrain as in the Insight hybrid, using the same 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine and electric motor as its dedicated hybrid model sibling. The system is combined with a CVT gearbox in the Jazz and with emissions of just 104 g/km of CO2 it has the lowest CO2 output of any automatic car in the B-segment. Fuel consumption is just 4.5 l/100km under the combined EU drive cycle. As a petrol-electric hybrid, the new derivative has ultra-low levels of other exhaust emissions, not just taxable elements.
Visually the Jazz Hybrid is distinguished from the rest of the Jazz range with revised headlights, which have a chrome blue surround, clear rear lights, new chrome blue front grille, restyled bumpers and a chrome tailgate garnish. The new hybrid will also be available in a range of existing colours plus a bespoke Lime Green metallic.
Inside the cabin is given a fresh look with a darker single colour dashboard, which contrasts strongly with the blue lighting of the dials and centre console. The new hybrid is also available with leather trim, the first time this has been available on a Jazz model in Europe.
The dashboard integrates a version of the Eco Assist function, which uses the ambient lighting of the speedometer to advise the driver on how their driving style is impacting on their fuel economy.
The Eco Assist function aides drivers in getting the maximum economy from their car in everyday situations and gives users real-time feedback on how their use of the brakes and throttle effects their fuel bills and environmental impact.
While respecting the unique features of the car, a range of Genuine Accessories will accentuate its hybrid character even further. Decoration items, such as doorstep garnishes, a variety of exterior and interior stickers, B-pillar garnishes and alternative alloy wheels can be fitted according to the driver's personal taste. A Solid State Drive navigation, hands-free Bluetooth® and rear entertainment system are set to provide extra technological comfort. A complete range of Genuine Accessories is available for those customers that want to add in even more functionality and style.
Interesting.... Honda has released a web preview of all-new Fit Shuttle for Japan. Known as the Jazz in some parts of the world including Europe and Australia, Honda has taken the five-door hatchback subcompact car and extended it to become a compact MPV. The Fit Shuttle employs a center-tank layout packaging arrangement to create more interior and luggage space in a compact body.
In addition to a 1.5-liter gasoline model, Honda will also offer a 1.3 hybrid model equipped with the compact and lightweight IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) system which will be the first wagon-type hybrid model in its class.
The Fit Shuttle is set to launch in Japan this March. No word yet about other markets. We've added some leaked magazine scans for your viewing pleasure.
Despite its more mild hybrid tendencies I’ve mostly been a fan of Honda’s hybrid cars. However, a number of battery-related problems in recent years have made me question Honda’s commitment to hybrids.
But, now that lithium will replace the sometimes shoddy NiMH battery packs in the upcoming 2012 Civic hybrid, it might be time to forgive and forget.
OK. For those now suffering or having suffered through Honda’s hybrid problems, there might never be forgiveness. Honda’s handling of some of the problems facing early Honda hybrid supporters has been appalling. Period.
Thinking forward, however, Honda is an important automaker and their hybrid vehicles have great meaning in the fuel economy debate. Consequently, some 2012 Honda Civic hybrid spyshots on InsideLine set up an obvious question: How much more fuel efficient will the new lithium-powered Civic hybrid be?
The spyshots show the new Civic hybrid being tested along with the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight. Thus, its impossible not to wonder how close the new Civic hybrid will come to matching the fuel economy numbers of the Prius.
Without a larger battery pack, catching up to the Prius seems impossible. However, adding a larger battery pack, especially one made of lithium, also increases costs. Of course, no automaker made the kind of NiMH investment that did Toyota. So, maybe the cost difference between lithium and NiMH isn’t as extreme for Honda.
Anyway, greatly looking forward to the final Civic hybrid fuel economy numbers.
At one time Honda and hybrid cars fit well into the same sentence. Not these days. Whether its Civic hybrid owners fuming over IMA issues, automotive critics slamming Insight hybrid execution, or the purpose of a two-seat hybrid sports car that barely feels sporty at all, Honda hybrids aren’t really hot.
But Honda hopes to change that with the lithium-powered 2012 Civic hybrid.
Unfortunately, it’s hard to believe that Honda has found a cure to its hybrid woes.
Sure, the new Civic Hybrid upgrades its 1.3 liter engine to 1.5 liters while mating it to a new lithium-ion battery pack that is said to improve EV range from nothing to at least a little. Still, lithium is found in other hybrid powertrains – both full and mild – and simply coupling a lithium-ion battery pack with Honda’s IMA does not seem enough to challenge Prius fuel economy, particularly city fuel economy.
Of course, maybe Honda isn’t just switching to lithium, but also increasing the capacity of its battery pack. More important, maybe Honda has figured out how to somehow morph the IMA powertrain into a full hybrid powertrain.
At this time the details are still sketchy, and hopefully we learn a bit more at tomorrow’s LA Auto Show. Nevertheless, we’ve heard of Honda’s Prius-conquering plans in the past, and they’ve always fallen short. Ultimately, if this is just lithium instead of NiMH, Toyota has little to fear from the new Civic hybrid.
The Toyota Prius will soon be up against a fierce challenger as Honda is now placing the finishing touches to the next-generation 2012 Civic Hybrid. Honda is overhauling the entire Civic lineup but the hybrid model is being prioritized over the conventionally powered Civic. That is why the 2012 Civic Hybrid is confirmed to go on sale in Japan next year but there’s still no date set for the start of sales of the "normal" Civic. Sources say that Honda is aiming for an evolution rather than a revolution with the next Civic. The current model has been restyled to have a rounder overall profile but there were no major changes to the design, size or market positioning.
The US market will receive Honda’s sedan and Si coupe body styles, which will be unveiled this January at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. According to a source in Tokyo, Honda’s biggest challenge currently is to come up with a new eco champ that can steal sales away from the Prius.
This means that the redesigned Civic Hybrid will be the lead vehicle in the new strategy. Once again, Honda will be using its unique, home-grown IMA hybrid system, similar to what’s used in the CR-Z.
By next year, the Civic Hybrid will move up from the current 1.3 liters to 1.5 liters. It will be the first Honda hybrid to make use of lithium-ion batteries, which considerably extends the car's EV driving range. A downside to the current Civic Hybrid with the NI-MH battery pack is that it can barely run a considerable distance in silent, electric-only mode, like the Prius.
Just because we won't get the FIT/JAZZ Hybrid right away doesn't mean we can't see what it's all about, here's a good read on the Jazz Hybrid.... IF you are considering buying one of the brand new Honda Jazz Hybrid cars due to be released in the UK in the New Year, you can be sure that your daily commute into work will take on a whole new meaning. That warm feeling will begin over breakfast as you munch your way through your piece of toast, reminiscing about how you came to choose this latest Honda hybrid car over the others available.
Certainly there was plenty of choice. You admit that you were sorely tempted by the CR-Z with its mighty 1.5-litre petrol hybrid engine and reputation for being the sporty hot hatchback that delivers outstanding performance and yet has a fuel economy of just 56.5 mpg and emission levels of just 117g/km of CO2.
The Civic Hybrid also took your eye. This beautifully designed saloon came with a host of features like keyless entry, alloy wheels, climate control, a multi-function drive computer and all the accoutrements that you would expect on an executive vehicle. Yet this Civic hybrid still came in at well under £20,000 and gives outstanding levels of performance, achieving 61.4 mpg from a 1.4-litre petrol hybrid engine, which emits just 108g/km of CO2.
You had almost bought the Honda Insight. This hybrid car boasts astonishing levels of economy with a 1.3-litre petrol hybrid engine giving 64.2mpg and just 101g/km of CO2 emitted. That combined with the now customary level of reliability afforded by Honda hybrid cars, not to mention the build quality, meant that you almost, almost had opted for the Insight.
However, there was just something intriguing about the brand new Jazz Hybrid. It had certainly created a stir when it debuted at the Paris Motor Show in October in its lime green metallic livery, but it was not just the colour that made this latest design from Honda stand out and catch the eye.
Just why you opted to select the car becomes evident from the moment you kissed your partner and children goodbye and hurried out of the front door and into the welcoming embrace of your new vehicle.
As soon as you are sat inside the car you realise why you made your choice. The new Jazz Hybrid may be bracketed alongside other 'supermini' vehicles but the interior feels anything but. Unlike other models in the same class, you do not have to bend your head awkwardly to get into the car.
The seat is comfortable, the driving position perfect. Even the seatbelt clicks into place with that satisfying click of quality engineering that resonates from every pore of the car.
As you turn the ignition, the dials in front of you light up thanks to stylish blue lighting that gives the interior a fresh and fashionable feel. A quick glance in the rear-view mirror reveals that your partner has left the backseats down from the weekend, when even the spacious 300 litre capacity boot was not enough to fit all the Christmas shopping, some weekly purchases and a new microwave oven into. Not that it mattered of course, as a quick press of the 'Magic Seats' button ensured the back seats slid down to expand the space available in the back to a massive 841 litre capacity, more than enough to accommodate a lot of extra shopping.
As you pull out of your garage, the silence that greets you has gone from being initially disquieting to comforting. The 1.3-litre petrol hybrid engine, managed by the Honda Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system, means that the car not only performs superbly but drives quietly, too. It took a little while for you to get used to how quiet the vehicle was when compared to your old petrol engine car, but now the silence is as welcome as it is impressive.
Turning left onto the road, you drive past the local small park and play area and allow yourself a small smile of satisfaction. With just 104g/km of CO2 emitted from the vehicle, not only does this mean that you are only paying road tax of just £20 a year, under current government legislation, but also that you are doing your bit to ensure that future generations can enjoy the environment by lowering your carbon footprint.
As you continue to enjoy the tranquil drive to work, you begin to notice the nuances of driving the new hybrid Jazz. You marvel at the fact that the battery is charged every time that you brake and that the IMA instinctively knows when to use the power of the petrol engine and the economy of the electric motor to allow you to drive as practically, safely and economically as possible.
Economy! Now that is something you have really noticed. You remember filling the car up late last week; since then it has made several trips to and from work, been used on a major Christmas shopping trip at the weekend and taken the children to the park at the weekend.
There was a time when this would have necessitated a trip to the petrol station about now to fill up. Instead, you look at your blue-lit petrol gauge and discover the tank is still over half full.
Well, when you are achieving 64.2 mpg you do not need to visit the petrol station quite so often.
That feeling of contentment is enhanced as you relax into your leather upholstered seats, your new Honda Jazz Hybrid being the first car in the European market that the vehicle manufacturer has offered this upgrade to. The interior feels as opulent as it looks.
The same is true as to how the car looks to others. Your friends at work were quick to notice the brilliant new paint scheme, the blue-tinted headlights and the newly designed grille and bumpers. They cast their admiring glances once again through the office window as you pull into your parking space, apply the handbrake and step out of the car.
As you walk into work with a smile on your face you ponder that perhaps the greatest aspect of all is that the new Honda Jazz Hybrid has not only made the trip to work quieter, cheaper and greener, but infinitely more enjoyable too.
The Jazz Hybrid made its world motor show debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, further demon-strating Honda's continuing commitment to petrol-electric hybrid technology.
