This is so painful to watch that it is funny....
Source via autoblog/carscoop
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
Carscoop Find; Honda CR-Z Mugen Concept Video
With development of the new Honda CR-Z Mugen concept nearing its end, the Japanese automaker decided it’s time to release the first video of the supercharged hybrid model on the road before its world premiere at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed in July.
The prototype CR-Z is the collaborative work of Honda UK and its in-house tuning shop Mugen Euro. The hotted-up hybrid sports car feature modifications to the 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol engine with the addition of a supercharger as well as to the Honda IMA system.
Mugen remains tightlipped at present over output numbers, but given that the regular model delivers a combined output of 122-horsepower, the supercharged model should flirt with the 200-horsepower mark.
“Performance figures already look promising for this supercharged Honda CR-Z, as early tests with a prototype car based on a standard CR-Z and a mid-tune engine giving 0-60mph times around that of the Civic Type R,” Honda said in a statement.
The tuning firm has also stripped out 50 kg or 110 pounds from the chassis and made changes to the suspension, alloy wheel / tire combos, brake system and the car’s aerodynamics.
Source;
2012 Honda CRV and Volvo XC60 Similarities
Nice read, and shocking how similar the CRV and the Volvo XC60 really are....
This, we are told, is the new 2012 model year Honda CR-V, known internally at Honda as the 2WS. Yes, that wedge shaped rear does remind us of a Volvo XC60. According to the folks at Autoblog, the elongated D-pillar suggests a third row seat. We think that's quite a possibility given that the CR-V's main rival, the Toyota RAV4, comes with a third row seat option in the US. Although it needs to be noted that US market RAV4 is slightly longer than their Japanese / European market equivalents.
On critics saying that the CR-V apes too much of a Volvo XC60 - give the same brief to two different designers working separately, to design a mid size urban soft-roader SUV that appeals to the masses, I reckon that both will still come to a similar solution. Being a mass volume product, cost is imperitive, so tail lamps stretching horizontally across the tailgate will be ruled out due to assembly and wiring harness cost. The only way left to go is for the tail lamps to be stacked vertically. Fuel economy concerns will dictate that a gradually slopping rear is favoured to reduce aero-drag. Plus the side windows profile and overall silhoutte needs has to project a youthful-sporty appeal. Hence that pronounced shoulder line that rises upwards to the rear to give the illusion of motion. Thus explains similarity. Sure there are other ways to achieve the same, but one needs to consider the complexity of the design which will then affect the steel stamping, logistics (flat body panels are favoured as they take up less space) and assembly take time.
On this side of the world, punitive taxes on imported vehicles coupled by the fact that the aside from China, Japan is the only source for right hand drive Toyota RAV 4 meant that Honda's hold on the passenger car based / unibody SUVs is uncontested. Nissan X-Trail is a bit more utilitarian, and the local distributors of Nissan Edaran Tan Chong Motor have sort of dropped the ball with the second generation X-Trail. In its heydays, Nissan used to shift almost 300 units of the first generation X-Trail a month. Now it registers just barely above 100 units a month. So by default, it is going to be another winner. Those in the know however, who are brave enough to break away from the herd mentality will opt for the Hyundai Tucson / ix35. Brilliant car in our opinion. It's cheaper and backed by a 5-years warranty.
Powertrain for the 2012 CR-V will be carried over from the current generation model, meaning a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and in some markets, a 2.4-liter as well. European markets will receive a diesel option. Expected public launch will be in the coming 2011 Tokyo Motor Show this December. Local market launch should start sometime around Q2 2012. That is of course, assuming that the Mayans were wrong about the world collapsing by 2012.
Source;
http://www.theautoindustrieblog.com/2011/05/honda-cr-v-2012-spyshot.html
This, we are told, is the new 2012 model year Honda CR-V, known internally at Honda as the 2WS. Yes, that wedge shaped rear does remind us of a Volvo XC60. According to the folks at Autoblog, the elongated D-pillar suggests a third row seat. We think that's quite a possibility given that the CR-V's main rival, the Toyota RAV4, comes with a third row seat option in the US. Although it needs to be noted that US market RAV4 is slightly longer than their Japanese / European market equivalents.On critics saying that the CR-V apes too much of a Volvo XC60 - give the same brief to two different designers working separately, to design a mid size urban soft-roader SUV that appeals to the masses, I reckon that both will still come to a similar solution. Being a mass volume product, cost is imperitive, so tail lamps stretching horizontally across the tailgate will be ruled out due to assembly and wiring harness cost. The only way left to go is for the tail lamps to be stacked vertically. Fuel economy concerns will dictate that a gradually slopping rear is favoured to reduce aero-drag. Plus the side windows profile and overall silhoutte needs has to project a youthful-sporty appeal. Hence that pronounced shoulder line that rises upwards to the rear to give the illusion of motion. Thus explains similarity. Sure there are other ways to achieve the same, but one needs to consider the complexity of the design which will then affect the steel stamping, logistics (flat body panels are favoured as they take up less space) and assembly take time.
On this side of the world, punitive taxes on imported vehicles coupled by the fact that the aside from China, Japan is the only source for right hand drive Toyota RAV 4 meant that Honda's hold on the passenger car based / unibody SUVs is uncontested. Nissan X-Trail is a bit more utilitarian, and the local distributors of Nissan Edaran Tan Chong Motor have sort of dropped the ball with the second generation X-Trail. In its heydays, Nissan used to shift almost 300 units of the first generation X-Trail a month. Now it registers just barely above 100 units a month. So by default, it is going to be another winner. Those in the know however, who are brave enough to break away from the herd mentality will opt for the Hyundai Tucson / ix35. Brilliant car in our opinion. It's cheaper and backed by a 5-years warranty.
Powertrain for the 2012 CR-V will be carried over from the current generation model, meaning a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and in some markets, a 2.4-liter as well. European markets will receive a diesel option. Expected public launch will be in the coming 2011 Tokyo Motor Show this December. Local market launch should start sometime around Q2 2012. That is of course, assuming that the Mayans were wrong about the world collapsing by 2012.
Source;
http://www.theautoindustrieblog.com/2011/05/honda-cr-v-2012-spyshot.html
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Next Gen Honda Beat getting closer?!?
Straight from www.woodyscarsite.com ;
"Only 33,600 sold from 1991-1996. It is already a classic by Honda standards and the last model to be approved from Mr. Honda himself. The Beat's aim was to challenge the Suzuki Cappuccino and the future Smart Roadster if the model would have continued. It's failure might have been the lack of power. No turbo or supercharger was ever offered to its 656cc engine. Can you blame customers?20 some years later with the advancement of VTEC, Honda can easily afford to spawn a newer version. With the S2000 out of the spotlight, it is an easy win."
Source;
http://www.woodyscarsite.com/2011/06/revival-new-honda-beat-convertible.html
Below are some earlier sketches of the vehilce. I think this would fit nicely into Honda's lineup.
Safety Advocates Demand Government Recall Jeep Grand Cherokee
The safety-minded organization claims that the 1993 through 2004 Grand Cherokee "is the most dangerous vehicle on the road today" due to a supposed defective fuel tank design.-Autoblog
By LISA STARK and BEN FORER
June 8, 2011
The Center for Auto Safety is demanding the government recall 2.2 million Jeep Grand Cherokees, model years 1993 through 2004, because of what they say is a defective fuel tank design that can cause the gas tank to rupture in a crash.
"For the Center for Auto Safety, this is the most dangerous vehicle on the road today and we want it recalled," said Clarence Ditlow, executive director of the advocacy organization.
The Center says that at least 55 people have died in crashes where fire was "the most harmful factor."
This week the center turned over to the government new crash test results that it says show gas tests failings in rear-end impacts. Ditlow said the problem is that the fuel tank is located behind the rear axle.
"You can have the tank itself rupture, you can have the filler hoses pull off as they did in some of our crash tests, and it's just a terrible design," Ditlow told ABC News.
Chrysler disputes the Center for Auto Safety's test results, telling ABC News, the test was "three times as severe" as the government standard and that the vehicle meets or exceeds federal standards.
The company added, "rear impacts resulting in a fire are extremely rare ...[and] occur no more often in 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles than in peer vehicles."
New Jersey mom Susan Klein died in a Cherokee when it burst into flames after she was rear-ended. Her husband, Tom Kline, spoke to ABC News affiliate WTVD in Raleigh, N.C.
"Imagine someone you've been with, that you've loved dearly for 33 years being burned to death. It's just not a good picture."
The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is investigating the vehicle's safety, declined to comment on the crash test.
Chrysler changed the Cherokee's design in 2005, moving the fuel tank in front of the rear axle. It says the change was made to expand cargo space and had nothing to do with safety.
Source;
http://abcnews.go.com/US/safety-advocates-demand-government-recall-jeep-grand-cherokee/story?id=13791477
By LISA STARK and BEN FORERJune 8, 2011
The Center for Auto Safety is demanding the government recall 2.2 million Jeep Grand Cherokees, model years 1993 through 2004, because of what they say is a defective fuel tank design that can cause the gas tank to rupture in a crash.
"For the Center for Auto Safety, this is the most dangerous vehicle on the road today and we want it recalled," said Clarence Ditlow, executive director of the advocacy organization.
The Center says that at least 55 people have died in crashes where fire was "the most harmful factor."
This week the center turned over to the government new crash test results that it says show gas tests failings in rear-end impacts. Ditlow said the problem is that the fuel tank is located behind the rear axle.
"You can have the tank itself rupture, you can have the filler hoses pull off as they did in some of our crash tests, and it's just a terrible design," Ditlow told ABC News.
Chrysler disputes the Center for Auto Safety's test results, telling ABC News, the test was "three times as severe" as the government standard and that the vehicle meets or exceeds federal standards.
The company added, "rear impacts resulting in a fire are extremely rare ...[and] occur no more often in 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles than in peer vehicles."
New Jersey mom Susan Klein died in a Cherokee when it burst into flames after she was rear-ended. Her husband, Tom Kline, spoke to ABC News affiliate WTVD in Raleigh, N.C.
"Imagine someone you've been with, that you've loved dearly for 33 years being burned to death. It's just not a good picture."
The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is investigating the vehicle's safety, declined to comment on the crash test.
Chrysler changed the Cherokee's design in 2005, moving the fuel tank in front of the rear axle. It says the change was made to expand cargo space and had nothing to do with safety.
Source;
http://abcnews.go.com/US/safety-advocates-demand-government-recall-jeep-grand-cherokee/story?id=13791477
Post-quake Honda says it now has lots of Fits, Insights for dealers
Honda offered a terrific sign this week that it is finally getting back on its feet in the U.S. after the March earthquake and tsunami that drastically slashed production.It is now telling dealers that they can resume ordering two of the most in-demand models -- the small Honda Fit and the hybrid Insight, Automotive News reports.
The two models, both made in Japan, have been among the most in-demand as gas rose to an average of nearly $4 a gallon. The Fit is the smallest car that Honda sells in the U.S. and comes recommended by Consumer Reports. The Insight is the brand's underrated hybrid, a competitor to Toyota's Prius.
"Honda's manufacturing operations in Japan are returning to nearly normalized levels by the end of summer," said John Mendel, executive vice president of Honda's U.S. sales operation in a memo to Honda dealers. Adding back Fit and Insight "represents a major improvement from the recovery timetable we provided you last month."
Honda stopped orders on the models after the earthquake. Honda didn't incur major damange to its factories in Japan, but it has been badly impacted by the shortage of parts that has hampered other automakers, including those in the U.S.
In fact, Mendel is downright bullish. Noting that other models like the Pilot SUV, Odyssey minivan and CR-V small crossover are coming back to normal production levels, he implored dealers, "it is imperative that you keep your foot on the sales pedal."
It won't be easy: Sales fell 22% in May compared with a year ago, the News notes.
Source;
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2011/06/post-quake-honda-says-now-lots-of-fits-insights-for-dealers/1
Friday, June 10, 2011
Honda plans Brio sedan by 2013,Here is render and info
Not for us in North America....
The car sale was kick off first in Thailand a month ago.Many have test drive a car and reveal that the car have good engine Performance,Easy handling but speace and safety kit are limited.People also discussting that the car is over prices and too much cost saving.People dispraise rear window that cover by glass and question about safty,No rear Windshield wiper and lack of many things.
Many sources report that Honda is planing a sedan version of Brio in the next two year.The new sedans will join the existing five-door hatchback body.Autoten got render from the ophilus chin reveal a Brio with a boot.Look like a perfect proportion, better than others add boot job like Swift and Swift dzire(Sedan verion of Swift).Unfortunately is too early for autoten to say that the sedan will get makeover at rear or get entirely new skin. But our opinion is not bad if honda done like our render.
The car should have around 4.1 meter long.For powerpack,is borrow 4 cylinder 1.2 liter 90 hp at 6000 RMP and 110 Nm at 4800 RMP with 5 speed manual and CVT gear box.
The car will goes on sale around 2013
The Honda Brio hatchback was launched and got temporary suspended!!.Honda announce that Brio hatcback is the company’s lowcost and smallest car.Build for developing countries like Asean and India.The car is slot beneath Jazz/fit and the prices will be affordable to anyone.The car also have great economy and less emissions.
The car sale was kick off first in Thailand a month ago.Many have test drive a car and reveal that the car have good engine Performance,Easy handling but speace and safety kit are limited.People also discussting that the car is over prices and too much cost saving.People dispraise rear window that cover by glass and question about safty,No rear Windshield wiper and lack of many things.
Last two week, Honda announced that it had to temporarily stop taking orders for the all-new Brio because of parts supply problems from Japan caused by the unfortunate incidents.No time frame release but insider source indicate that the car will be aviable agian next year.
Autoten only hope Honda will fix these disadvantages.
Many sources report that Honda is planing a sedan version of Brio in the next two year.The new sedans will join the existing five-door hatchback body.Autoten got render from the ophilus chin reveal a Brio with a boot.Look like a perfect proportion, better than others add boot job like Swift and Swift dzire(Sedan verion of Swift).Unfortunately is too early for autoten to say that the sedan will get makeover at rear or get entirely new skin. But our opinion is not bad if honda done like our render.
The car should have around 4.1 meter long.For powerpack,is borrow 4 cylinder 1.2 liter 90 hp at 6000 RMP and 110 Nm at 4800 RMP with 5 speed manual and CVT gear box.
The car will goes on sale around 2013
Source;
New Liquid 'Refill' could change how fast batteries charge in EV's
By Yang-Yi Goh,TechNews
Daily Contributor 08 June 2011 10:46 PM ET
A new breed of quick-charge “liquid” batteries could help make recharging electric cars as easy as filling up at the gas pump.
Electric cars may be driving the auto industry toward a greener future, but a great number of issues still need to be resolved for them to catch up with their petroleum-guzzling forebears with regard to performance and desirability.
Perhaps the biggest problem facing electric auto designers lies in the battery: large and inefficient, today’s standard rechargeable lithium-ion batteries take hours to replenish and are suitable only for short distances. Chevy’s Volt model, for instance, takes nearly 10 hours to fully charge using an ordinary 120 volt outlet, and is able to travel only 25-50 miles before resorting to its backup gas engine.
Thanks to a group of MIT researchers, however, a new generation of leaner, more powerful, and easy-to-refuel batteries may be just around the corner. In a paper published in the May 20 edition of the journal Advanced Energy Materials, the group — led by MIT professors of material science Yet-Ming Chiang and W. Craig Carter — describe a novel approach to battery architecture that revolves around what they call a “semi-solid flow cell.”
Essentially, the new design houses the battery’s active components — the positive and negative electrodes, or cathodes and anodes — as solid particles suspended in a liquid electrolyte. This thick, quicksand-like liquid is pumped through the system during the process of charging or discharging the battery.
According to MIT, the architecture should make it possible to reduce the size and cost of a complete battery system to about “half the current levels,” while providing a “10-fold improvement in energy density over present liquid flow batteries.”
“For two decades, advances in batteries have relied on development of improved components to be used in the same basic, inefficient architecture,” Chiang told TechNewsDaily. “Our work represents the inception of ‘Batteries 2.0.’”
The batteries will hopefully bring the performance levels of electric vehicles up to par with their gas engine counterparts. Using the semi-solid flow architecture, Chiang estimates a car will be able to travel 200-300 miles on a single charge.
“Our objective is to replace ‘range anxiety’ with ‘range euphoria,’” he says. Additionally, the new design will make refueling a snap.
Drivers will have the option of either simply pumping out the liquid slurry and replacing it with a fresh batch, swapping out the tanks like you would a spare tire, or recharging the existing material when time permits.
The technology is still at an early stage of development—Chiang expects the first commercial prototypes to be ready in about two years, but foresees the semi-solid flow system challenging the current cell-module-pack approach by the end of the decade.
Source;
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)