Honda: Development and Technology News
12-24-2010, 06:28 PM
#2001
The question is...how long before Toyota comes out with a jet, its own airline, its own airport, etc,...ie completely surpassing Honda like Lexus did with Acura.
12-24-2010, 07:32 PM
#2002
Senior Moderator
12-24-2010, 07:33 PM
#2003
Senior Moderator
12-24-2010, 07:34 PM
#2004
Senior Moderator
But the question is is which one will come out with an aircraft carrier first
or a nuclear attack submarine
12-24-2010, 08:56 PM
#2005
Race Director
12-24-2010, 09:21 PM
#2006
Toyota neither has larger profits nor better cash flow nor money spent on single large project for long period of time which is requirement of aviation sector.
Lexus larger share is not due to larger money of Toyota but Toyota already had RWD cars in Japanese internal market for decades. so it was not big deal for them to create Lexus brand.
How is old Toyota Crown Royal Saloon, Crown Majesta, Cressida, Carina, Corona, Sprinter nameplates?. Not to mention Landcruiser SUV for 5 decades. Honda has only Accord as maintream vehicle and that only started in late 70s as small car not bigger than Toyota Corona.
Honda is much bolder company in venturing into diverse fields like industrial robotics etc. I would say chance of sucess as leading aviaition product supplier for Honda is far higher than any other Motor Company.
12-24-2010, 09:32 PM
#2007
2G TLX-S
Highly unlikely Toyota will come out with anything. Unlike Honda. Toyota is amalgamation of large number of smaller companies. and R&D is spread out around too many projects from Hino Buses to Daihtsu micro cars to Yamaha engines to vast array of diesel engines etc.
.....
.....
Toyota has no restriction like Honda's dogma of doing everything inhouse and following no others.
12-24-2010, 10:36 PM
#2008
But with Toyota's giant corporate size, it can buy out any valuable aviation outfit without a wink, and short-cut it's development time; just like how Microsoft eats up all it's potential competitions.
Toyota has no restriction like Honda's dogma of doing everything inhouse and following no others.
Toyota has no restriction like Honda's dogma of doing everything inhouse and following no others.
both Honda and Nissan sales are rising on global bases. Once Honda and Nissan enters there next generation Hybrid line up. Toyota profits from higher value will practically finished. Toyota does not have anymore upside. Honda is soon introudcing new engines and small diesel engine for third world which Toyota so dominant for decades.
12-26-2010, 06:26 AM
#2009
Safety Car
Accord
Late last week, Honda wheeled out the electric Fit for a brief publicity drive in Torrance, CA. Parked beside the battery-powered Fit was a Honda Accord dressed in graphics that read "Plug-In Hybrid." The Accord plug-in hybrid (PHV) that made its debut is nothing more than an early-stage prototype, but Honda did drop some specs for its PHV, which we've highlighted below:
* This new hybrid system is designed for mid-size to larger vehicles and will be introduced in a future Honda model in 2012.
* The plug-in hybrid allows for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode.
* The Honda 2-motor system continuously moves through 3 different modes to maximize driving efficiency: all-electric, gasoline-electric and a unique, engine direct-drive mode.
* In all-electric mode, the vehicle uses a 6kWh lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor.
* The all-electric mode achieves a range of approximately 10-15 miles in city driving and a top speed of 62 mph.
* Fully recharging the battery will take 3 to 4 hours using a 120-volt outlet and 1 to 1.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet.
Honda intends to launch a production PHV in 2013, so there's still ample time for the automaker to modify its powertrain before the vehicle debuts, but these preliminary specs suggest that a plug-in Prius fighter is in the works.* The plug-in hybrid allows for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode.
* The Honda 2-motor system continuously moves through 3 different modes to maximize driving efficiency: all-electric, gasoline-electric and a unique, engine direct-drive mode.
* In all-electric mode, the vehicle uses a 6kWh lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor.
* The all-electric mode achieves a range of approximately 10-15 miles in city driving and a top speed of 62 mph.
* Fully recharging the battery will take 3 to 4 hours using a 120-volt outlet and 1 to 1.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet.
12-26-2010, 06:34 AM
#2010
Race Director
I wonder what Honda will do when it finds out that the general public is not so keen on plugging in its cars. Honda, wake up , this is the same consumer that can't be bothered to change gears themselves, what makes you think they will bother to plug in their cars when they get home? You either force them to do so (a la Leaf) or don't bother.
01-07-2011, 02:38 PM
#2011
Senior Moderator
From Temple of Vtec
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=949553
Interesting.
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=949553
In an email sent out to dealers today, Honda has revealed that a 4-cylinder Accord CrossTour model is on its way. The memo says it will be released "mid-summer" but we have been told that it might be much later in the year. Also mentioned in the memo is a "late April" release date for the 2012 Civic (which we have known for some time), a mention of the upcoming 2012 CR-V FMC, and also a mention of the Pilot's MMC.
There was no other information contained within the email sent out by Honda BUT we have learned separately that the CrossTour 4-cylinder model would most likely only be offered in the lower trim levels and FWD initially. We have also heard that the all-new CR-V will come with an all-new 4-cylinder engine, and it would likely be larger than 2.4L - perhaps displacing as much as 2.6 or even 2.7L.
There was no other information contained within the email sent out by Honda BUT we have learned separately that the CrossTour 4-cylinder model would most likely only be offered in the lower trim levels and FWD initially. We have also heard that the all-new CR-V will come with an all-new 4-cylinder engine, and it would likely be larger than 2.4L - perhaps displacing as much as 2.6 or even 2.7L.
Interesting.
01-07-2011, 06:52 PM
#2013
Whats up with RDX owners?
iTrader: (9)
Thats a rather large 4cyl.
And a 4cyl in the Crosstour? Will it even move?
And a 4cyl in the Crosstour? Will it even move?
02-11-2011, 08:37 AM
#2014
Safety Car
Geneva
Honda is still toting the company line that plug-in vehicles are a "near-future technology" and that the ultimate goal of green motoring is a choice of mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, such as its own FCX Clarity. This, despite the presence of new production plug-in vehicles (Leaf, Volt, etc) on the road today.
Regardless of whether or not you subscribe to Honda's way of thinking, it's always a pleasure to welcome in a new electric vehicle concept from a major automaker, and that's exactly what the Japanese automaker will be bringing to the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
Says Honda, "The Honda EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling for Honda's upcoming production battery electric vehicle, the Fit EV, which will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012." Honda also notes that the concept is designed "to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter," and to that end, seats 5 passengers and has room for their cargo in the hatch.
Range will come in at 100 miles (using the U.S. LA4 City Cycle), and there will be 3 separate driving modes (as seen in the CR-Z hybrid hatchback) along with "several interactive coaching systems to assist the driver in maximising battery range." Honda will also show off a matching prototype Honda Charging Stand for electric vehicles.
The other major draw at the Honda display will be a new plug-in hybrid platform that will showcase the automaker's next-gen 2-motor hybrid drivetrain. Unlike Honda's current Integrated Motor Assist technology, this will be a full hybrid system with 3 modes: all-electric, petrol-electric and an engine direct-drive mode. Honda has packaged the hybrid technology in a midsize platform – roughly the size of an Accord, we'd imagine.
We certainly look forward to seeing what Honda has in store for Geneva, but in the meantime, feel free to scan though the press release after the break for more clues.
Honda EV Concept and Plug-in Hybrid Platform feature at Geneva International Motor Show 2011
The all-new Honda EV Concept electric vehicle will be displayed in Geneva, alongside a platform for mid size plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The concepts will be shown as part of Honda's "Road to 0 Emissions", illustrating the current technology of hybrids alongside the near-future technology of plug-in vehicles and the ultimate goal of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, like Honda's FCX Clarity.
Both vehicles are integral to the Honda Electric Mobility Network, the company's comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions through innovative products, energy-management and energy-production technologies.
The Honda EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling for Honda's upcoming production battery electric vehicle, the Fit EV, which will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012. The all-new plug-in hybrid platform showcases Honda's next-generation, 2-motor hybrid technology set to debut in 2012.
Honda EV Concept
The EV Concept is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilises the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Fit hatchback (known as Jazz in Europe).
The Honda EV Concept will achieve an estimated 160 km (100 mile) driving range per charge using the US EPA LA4* city cycle . Driving range can be maximised by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sporty hybrid. In addition to this, the Honda EV Concept will include several interactive coaching systems to assist the driver in maximising battery range.
Alongside the Honda EV Concept will be a prototype Honda charging stand, providing a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that is easy to use and intuitive for consumers.
Honda Plug-in Hybrid
Honda will also unveil a plug-in hybrid platform, which showcases Honda's next-generation 2-motor hybrid system. Integrated into a mid-size sedan platform, the plug-in hybrid is designed to be compatible with daily driving habits, allowing for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode, while providing long-distance driving capability when needed.
The Honda 2-motor system continuously moves through 3 different modes to maximise driving efficiency: all-electric, petrol-electric and a engine direct-drive mode. The plug-in hybrid also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.
FCX Clarity
The FCX Clarity will be displayed alongside the 2 concept vehicles demonstrating its position as the ultimate solution to 0 emissions mobility. The world's 1st production fuel cell electric vehicle has been available to lease in the US and Japan since 2008.
Honda Range at Geneva Motor Show 2011
Jazz
The Geneva Motor Show will be the European motor show debut of the revised Honda Jazz and marks the return of a CVT automatic transmission to the endlessly flexible B-segment hatchback.
Jazz Hybrid
The Jazz Hybrid will go on sale in March 2011 in many markets and will be shown in full production specification, further demonstrating Honda's continuing commitment to petrol-electric hybrid technology.
Accord
The revised Honda Accord sedan and Tourer models will make their debut at the show. Both cars receive a host of changes including enhanced styling, emissions, ride and handling.
Insight
The 2011 Honda Insight will feature a revised interior. The car also features revised suspension components and settings, specification changes and 2 new exterior colours.
CR-Z
The world's first 6-speed manual hybrid coupe, the Honda CR-Z will grace the stand at the Geneva Motor Show.
CR-V
Joining the Accord in the safety zone of the Geneva Motor Show stand is the CR-V equipped with the Euro NCAP award-winning Collision Mitigation Brake System, the Honda-developed autonomous emergency braking system.
The all-new Honda EV Concept electric vehicle will be displayed in Geneva, alongside a platform for mid size plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The concepts will be shown as part of Honda's "Road to 0 Emissions", illustrating the current technology of hybrids alongside the near-future technology of plug-in vehicles and the ultimate goal of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, like Honda's FCX Clarity.
Both vehicles are integral to the Honda Electric Mobility Network, the company's comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions through innovative products, energy-management and energy-production technologies.
The Honda EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling for Honda's upcoming production battery electric vehicle, the Fit EV, which will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012. The all-new plug-in hybrid platform showcases Honda's next-generation, 2-motor hybrid technology set to debut in 2012.
Honda EV Concept
The EV Concept is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilises the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Fit hatchback (known as Jazz in Europe).
The Honda EV Concept will achieve an estimated 160 km (100 mile) driving range per charge using the US EPA LA4* city cycle . Driving range can be maximised by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sporty hybrid. In addition to this, the Honda EV Concept will include several interactive coaching systems to assist the driver in maximising battery range.
Alongside the Honda EV Concept will be a prototype Honda charging stand, providing a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that is easy to use and intuitive for consumers.
Honda Plug-in Hybrid
Honda will also unveil a plug-in hybrid platform, which showcases Honda's next-generation 2-motor hybrid system. Integrated into a mid-size sedan platform, the plug-in hybrid is designed to be compatible with daily driving habits, allowing for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode, while providing long-distance driving capability when needed.
The Honda 2-motor system continuously moves through 3 different modes to maximise driving efficiency: all-electric, petrol-electric and a engine direct-drive mode. The plug-in hybrid also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.
FCX Clarity
The FCX Clarity will be displayed alongside the 2 concept vehicles demonstrating its position as the ultimate solution to 0 emissions mobility. The world's 1st production fuel cell electric vehicle has been available to lease in the US and Japan since 2008.
Honda Range at Geneva Motor Show 2011
Jazz
The Geneva Motor Show will be the European motor show debut of the revised Honda Jazz and marks the return of a CVT automatic transmission to the endlessly flexible B-segment hatchback.
Jazz Hybrid
The Jazz Hybrid will go on sale in March 2011 in many markets and will be shown in full production specification, further demonstrating Honda's continuing commitment to petrol-electric hybrid technology.
Accord
The revised Honda Accord sedan and Tourer models will make their debut at the show. Both cars receive a host of changes including enhanced styling, emissions, ride and handling.
Insight
The 2011 Honda Insight will feature a revised interior. The car also features revised suspension components and settings, specification changes and 2 new exterior colours.
CR-Z
The world's first 6-speed manual hybrid coupe, the Honda CR-Z will grace the stand at the Geneva Motor Show.
CR-V
Joining the Accord in the safety zone of the Geneva Motor Show stand is the CR-V equipped with the Euro NCAP award-winning Collision Mitigation Brake System, the Honda-developed autonomous emergency braking system.
02-11-2011, 10:17 AM
#2015
Senior Moderator
If manufacturers want the most ease of use for the consumer along with great range, why not have a TOTALLY electric powered vehicle coupled with a moped motor (something small) paired to an alternator.
The little fuel engine can generate power to run the electric motor all the time. Add in a larger battery pack and the car can charge the batteries and then turn off the fuel motor. Then when it starts running low, the fuel motor turns back on to recharge it!
Benefit is that the moped motor (or whatever it is) can be air cooled and not rely on a cooling system that adds weight. You also save weight in other aspects and have a car that gets great gas mileage. And of course you can actually hear it pull up then so you don't get run over by a prius with some playing cards in the spokes
Hell, put in a motorcycle motor that gets 100+ MPG. It can power up a electric motor easily!
The little fuel engine can generate power to run the electric motor all the time. Add in a larger battery pack and the car can charge the batteries and then turn off the fuel motor. Then when it starts running low, the fuel motor turns back on to recharge it!
Benefit is that the moped motor (or whatever it is) can be air cooled and not rely on a cooling system that adds weight. You also save weight in other aspects and have a car that gets great gas mileage. And of course you can actually hear it pull up then so you don't get run over by a prius with some playing cards in the spokes
Hell, put in a motorcycle motor that gets 100+ MPG. It can power up a electric motor easily!
Last edited by csmeance; 02-11-2011 at 10:20 AM.
02-11-2011, 10:52 AM
#2016
The sizzle in the Steak
^^ Sounds like you are designing VOLT 2.0
02-11-2011, 11:27 AM
#2018
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yea...that's pretty much a series hybrid system...like the Volt. The little moped engine is probably not powerful enough to generate enough electricity to power the car.
02-11-2011, 12:27 PM
#2019
Certainly not strong enough, but if coupled with plug in capability maybe. BUT then you're back to big batteries. I want a Honda Jet in the car. Give me a tiny gas turbine to charge the batteries that power the electric motors!
02-11-2011, 04:51 PM
#2020
You'll Never Walk Alone
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Yea, and when you have bigger batteries, you need to find a way to cool them, and then that will take up space and increase weight.
Hmm...Jet engine to charge batteries...that's probably not a bad idea considering jet engines are efficient when they are running at constant speed!
Hmm...Jet engine to charge batteries...that's probably not a bad idea considering jet engines are efficient when they are running at constant speed!
02-25-2011, 09:36 PM
#2021
Safety Car
Article
Honda denies it is using dual clutch technology on its MotoGP bikes after the strong showing from its riders at a recent pre-season test at Malaysia’s Sepang circuit.
Honda riders claimed the top 4 spots on the Sepang test time sheet. Repsol Honda factory rider Casey Stoner had the fastest lap with a time of 1:59.665 with teammate Dani Pedrosa second at 1:59.803. San Carlo Honda Gresini rider was next at 2:00.163 with the 3rd Repsol Honda rider Andrea Dovizioso at 2:00.541.
To give some perspective, the official lap record at Sepang is 2:00.518 set by Valentino Rossi in 2009. The fastest non-Honda rider was Yamaha factory rider Ben Spies at 2:00.678 with fellow American and former teammate with Monster Yamaha Tech 3, Colin Edwards at 2:00.966.
02-25-2011, 09:43 PM
#2022
Senior Moderator
It doesnt beat it by that much where i would say it was the trans. Tech progression could be whats the difference here, suspension, tires, chassis etc???????
03-08-2011, 07:27 AM
#2024
Safety Car
15 Miles
TOKYO -- 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 2-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 9 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, in part because it was underpowered.
03-08-2011, 08:07 AM
#2025
Senior Moderator
TOKYO -- 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 2-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 9 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, in part because it was underpowered.
03-08-2011, 11:23 AM
#2026
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^^ I thought it's pretty clear that, at least for Honda, hybrid is only a temporary solution? Not sure about other auto makers, but Honda is also working on other long term solutions.
Back on topic, hmm, 9-15 miles, it's not a lot, but for me, it would help a lot. My work place is only 10 minutes away from home (3-4km, or 2-3 miles). Most of my driving is within 15km. It will definitely help me.
Back on topic, hmm, 9-15 miles, it's not a lot, but for me, it would help a lot. My work place is only 10 minutes away from home (3-4km, or 2-3 miles). Most of my driving is within 15km. It will definitely help me.
03-08-2011, 12:06 PM
#2027
The sizzle in the Steak
^^ I thought it's pretty clear that, at least for Honda, hybrid is only a temporary solution? Not sure about other auto makers, but Honda is also working on other long term solutions.
Back on topic, hmm, 9-15 miles, it's not a lot, but for me, it would help a lot. My work place is only 10 minutes away from home (3-4km, or 2-3 miles). Most of my driving is within 15km. It will definitely help me.
Back on topic, hmm, 9-15 miles, it's not a lot, but for me, it would help a lot. My work place is only 10 minutes away from home (3-4km, or 2-3 miles). Most of my driving is within 15km. It will definitely help me.
If it's cold, it will drop dramatically.
I would also assume that that figure is with all accessories "off" as in A/C, heat, radio, windshield wipers, etc and so on.
03-08-2011, 12:46 PM
#2028
You'll Never Walk Alone
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Hmm...my interpretation is that in ideal conditions, with accessories off, and driving like a grandma, then you can get 15 miles. Worse case scenerio would be something like 9 miles. I guess we won't know until the a production version is available. Given Honda's reputation of being extremely conservative (product planning, technologies, designs, EPA ratings, hp rating, torque rating, etc), I wouldn't be surprised that in the real world, one can easily get over 10 miles.
Or may be 9 miles is for highway driving (where you will step on the gas pedal the whole time), and 15 miles is for city driving (where you won't be stepping the gas pedal the whole time and you can also regenerate energy when slowing down).
Or may be 9 miles is for highway driving (where you will step on the gas pedal the whole time), and 15 miles is for city driving (where you won't be stepping the gas pedal the whole time and you can also regenerate energy when slowing down).
03-08-2011, 01:10 PM
#2029
Race Director
03-08-2011, 05:25 PM
#2031
Safety Car
Battery Power
I read that to mean that the battery/hybrid system was not strong enough (read: cannot propel the car alone)
05-31-2011, 09:13 AM
#2033
Trolling Canuckistan
Honda raising prices and destination charges
First off, sorry no link available to the general public.
Due to the situation in Japan, Honda is raising prices by approximately .75% of MSRP across the board. Along with this they are going to be raising the destination charge. This will be for all Honda automobiles being produced from here on. Cars thst are already in transit to dealerships and cars that are at dealerships will be at the old pricing.
Due to the situation in Japan, Honda is raising prices by approximately .75% of MSRP across the board. Along with this they are going to be raising the destination charge. This will be for all Honda automobiles being produced from here on. Cars thst are already in transit to dealerships and cars that are at dealerships will be at the old pricing.
05-31-2011, 10:40 AM
#2035
The sizzle in the Steak
All imports will be increasing prices.....US dollar FTL
05-31-2011, 04:53 PM
#2037
This is not unprecedented. If I remember correctly, they raised prices three times in 2009 as the dollar fell against the yen.
05-31-2011, 06:29 PM
#2038
The sizzle in the Steak
06-01-2011, 06:26 AM
#2039
Race Director
^ they can no longer afford to eat the increase in the costs of materials. Also, I assume Honda had some exchange rate hedge to protects against a low dollar - maybe that ran out. This is the BMW way to increase prices - it's normal for them to increase prices sometime during the year outside of MY change. You get smaller increases but more of them.
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