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Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
CarScoop: 2012 Toyota Prius Alpha Hybrid Minivan Scooped?
8:13 AM
rin
Hmmm, interesting....
Carscoop reader Nick K. had an opportunity to snag what may very well be the first spy photos of the long-anticipated minivan version of the Prius, rumored to be called the Prius Alpha.
Spotted out in California following a new Lexus CT200h with its logos covered, the camouflaged minivan seen here - said by Nick to be "about the size of a Mazda 5" - appears to be wearing a Prius-esque front fascia and doesn't look to fit anywhere else in the lineup.
As you can see in our photo gallery after the jump, the minivan and the Prius also seem to share a similar design for the windshield, front window line and tail lamps.
If earlier reports from Reuters and Japan's Nikkei daily are correct, the Prius MPV will end up housing three rows of seats with space for up to seven passengers and be powered by in-house developed lithium-ion batteries (which may later be manufactured with help from Panasonic).
As we recently told you, Toyota Executive VP Takeshi Uchiyamada hopes to launch six new hybrids worldwide by 2012 (two Lexi and four Toyotas) on top of its current hybrid offerings. That means the Lexus hybrid family - LS, GS, HS, and RX - will likely gain another crossover of some sort and probably an IS hybrid.
Toyota - currently at three hybrids in the U.S. with the Prius, Camry, and Highlander - will likely get at least one more variant of the Prius, as well as three other models. Speculation on those is up to you all.
By Phil Alex
Source (with more pic's!);
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2010/09/2012-toyota-prius-alpha-hybrid-minivan.html
Carscoop reader Nick K. had an opportunity to snag what may very well be the first spy photos of the long-anticipated minivan version of the Prius, rumored to be called the Prius Alpha.Spotted out in California following a new Lexus CT200h with its logos covered, the camouflaged minivan seen here - said by Nick to be "about the size of a Mazda 5" - appears to be wearing a Prius-esque front fascia and doesn't look to fit anywhere else in the lineup.
As you can see in our photo gallery after the jump, the minivan and the Prius also seem to share a similar design for the windshield, front window line and tail lamps.
If earlier reports from Reuters and Japan's Nikkei daily are correct, the Prius MPV will end up housing three rows of seats with space for up to seven passengers and be powered by in-house developed lithium-ion batteries (which may later be manufactured with help from Panasonic).
As we recently told you, Toyota Executive VP Takeshi Uchiyamada hopes to launch six new hybrids worldwide by 2012 (two Lexi and four Toyotas) on top of its current hybrid offerings. That means the Lexus hybrid family - LS, GS, HS, and RX - will likely gain another crossover of some sort and probably an IS hybrid.
Toyota - currently at three hybrids in the U.S. with the Prius, Camry, and Highlander - will likely get at least one more variant of the Prius, as well as three other models. Speculation on those is up to you all.
By Phil Alex
Source (with more pic's!);
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2010/09/2012-toyota-prius-alpha-hybrid-minivan.html
Is the US ready to accept diesel?
6:50 AM
rin
By: Glenn Brooks, Monday, September 27, 2010, AutomotiveWorld.com 
"Hybrids are costly and although sales are strong in the US and Japan, globally they are not so successful. Of the 60 million vehicles built a year, just 1% are hybrids."
So said Mazda president and CEO Takashi Yamanouchi at the New York auto show earlier this year. With its sole hybrid model, the Tribute HEV, having recently been withdrawn from the US market due to disappointing sales, Mazda has been brave enough to address a situation many rivals remain in denial over. While no-one doubts the success of the Toyota Prius in both the US and Japan, this car is the sole exception to the global reality of hybrid vehicles being little more than pricey niche models.
Honda, Toyota's main rival in gasoline-electric technology, has tried to emulate the success of the Prius with its CR-Z, Insight and Civic Hybrid models. But with fewer than 5,000 Civic Hybrids and 15,000 Insights sold in the US in the first eight months of 2010, even American Honda would hesitate to label those numbers a good result.
It would be surprising if VW wasn’t planning to build diesel engines at its new Mexican powertrain plant.
Some of the reason why the fizz has gone out of US market hybrid sales is the end of tax credits for most brands. The cars are also typically high-priced and, with the weight of two propulsion systems onboard, are often none-too-economical in the freeway conditions typical of many owners' daily commutes.
Perhaps another, equally unseen factor is also contributing to declining hybrid sales: the US consumer's endless desire for novelty. Once seemingly everyone has a Prius it's time to find The Next Big Thing. Could that be diesel? The received wisdom that Americans dislike compression-ignition cars is outmoded as anyone who takes even a casual look at the recent sales figures for Volkswagen of America.
It is also worth noting the wording of VW's recent statement concerning its forthcoming 330,000/annum 'engine' plant that's due to come on stream in Silao, Mexico in 2013. No doubt the majority of engine production will be gasoline units but with sales of its diesel models rising rapidly in North America and all those TDI engines currently being imported from Europe, it would be surprising indeed if VW wasn't planning to also build diesels at Silao.
Volkswagen may have the diesel segment to itself for the foreseeable future
With 23% of its annual US sales already diesel and plans to lift its overall annual numbers to 800,000 vehicles by 2018, VW could even have much of this market to itself for the foreseeable future: neither General Motors, Ford, Toyota nor any other major player has plans to manufacture passenger car diesel engines in North America.
Until Volkswagen starts building diesel engines in Mexico and/or the US, we just don't know what the true potential for vehicles like the Jetta TDI (presently 25% of the car’s average 11,000 monthly sales in 2010) or Audi A3 TDI (fully 50% of sales in August) might be: much of the exchange rate volatility from imports of European engines is currently passed on to the US consumer in the form of high stickers for such models.
As the prices of diesel cars in the US market fall, as surely they will, so their popularity will grow. In the premium segment, the signs are already unmistakable. BMW, which had not offered a diesel in the US for 24 years, quietly introduced the 335d and X5 xDrive35d in 2009. Despite limited promotion, sales have surged. Lexus, the long time leading premium brand is no doubt already feeling alarmed, saddled as it is with slow-selling hybrids such as the HS 250h and LS 600h but without even one diesel offering: last month, BMW became the US market's number one premium brand.
Source;
http://www.automotiveworld.com/news/environment/83958-is-the-us-ready-to-accept-diesel
"Hybrids are costly and although sales are strong in the US and Japan, globally they are not so successful. Of the 60 million vehicles built a year, just 1% are hybrids."So said Mazda president and CEO Takashi Yamanouchi at the New York auto show earlier this year. With its sole hybrid model, the Tribute HEV, having recently been withdrawn from the US market due to disappointing sales, Mazda has been brave enough to address a situation many rivals remain in denial over. While no-one doubts the success of the Toyota Prius in both the US and Japan, this car is the sole exception to the global reality of hybrid vehicles being little more than pricey niche models.
Honda, Toyota's main rival in gasoline-electric technology, has tried to emulate the success of the Prius with its CR-Z, Insight and Civic Hybrid models. But with fewer than 5,000 Civic Hybrids and 15,000 Insights sold in the US in the first eight months of 2010, even American Honda would hesitate to label those numbers a good result.
It would be surprising if VW wasn’t planning to build diesel engines at its new Mexican powertrain plant.
Some of the reason why the fizz has gone out of US market hybrid sales is the end of tax credits for most brands. The cars are also typically high-priced and, with the weight of two propulsion systems onboard, are often none-too-economical in the freeway conditions typical of many owners' daily commutes.
Perhaps another, equally unseen factor is also contributing to declining hybrid sales: the US consumer's endless desire for novelty. Once seemingly everyone has a Prius it's time to find The Next Big Thing. Could that be diesel? The received wisdom that Americans dislike compression-ignition cars is outmoded as anyone who takes even a casual look at the recent sales figures for Volkswagen of America.
It is also worth noting the wording of VW's recent statement concerning its forthcoming 330,000/annum 'engine' plant that's due to come on stream in Silao, Mexico in 2013. No doubt the majority of engine production will be gasoline units but with sales of its diesel models rising rapidly in North America and all those TDI engines currently being imported from Europe, it would be surprising indeed if VW wasn't planning to also build diesels at Silao.
Volkswagen may have the diesel segment to itself for the foreseeable future
With 23% of its annual US sales already diesel and plans to lift its overall annual numbers to 800,000 vehicles by 2018, VW could even have much of this market to itself for the foreseeable future: neither General Motors, Ford, Toyota nor any other major player has plans to manufacture passenger car diesel engines in North America.
Until Volkswagen starts building diesel engines in Mexico and/or the US, we just don't know what the true potential for vehicles like the Jetta TDI (presently 25% of the car’s average 11,000 monthly sales in 2010) or Audi A3 TDI (fully 50% of sales in August) might be: much of the exchange rate volatility from imports of European engines is currently passed on to the US consumer in the form of high stickers for such models.
As the prices of diesel cars in the US market fall, as surely they will, so their popularity will grow. In the premium segment, the signs are already unmistakable. BMW, which had not offered a diesel in the US for 24 years, quietly introduced the 335d and X5 xDrive35d in 2009. Despite limited promotion, sales have surged. Lexus, the long time leading premium brand is no doubt already feeling alarmed, saddled as it is with slow-selling hybrids such as the HS 250h and LS 600h but without even one diesel offering: last month, BMW became the US market's number one premium brand.
Source;
http://www.automotiveworld.com/news/environment/83958-is-the-us-ready-to-accept-diesel
General Motors to Sell a Diesel Powered Car in North America
6:45 AM
rin
I hope that if this car actually comes about that it is a success, then maybe companies like Honda can bring their diesel products over here to North America....
General Motors has confirmed that it will sell a diesel-powered car on U.S. soil in the future. According to Ward’s Auto, the source of the news is none-other than GM Vice Chairman Tom Stephens. The use of a diesel would mark the first time in almost three decades that a diesel car was sold in the U.S., with the last diesels being sold in Cadillac, Buick and Oldsmobile vehicles in the late ’70s and early ’80s.
There’s no additional info on what vehicle could get the new diesel powerplant or even if the diesel engine being considered is new. GM has been offering a diesel version of its Ecotec 4-cylinder in Europe and other markets since 1996. That being said, it would seem easiest to offer a diesel engine in a car like the Buick Regal, which is based off the European Opel Insignia and is already offered with a choice of several diesel powerplants overseas including an upcoming twin-turbo 2.0-liter CDTi Ecotec motor making 190-hp and 300 ft-lbs of torque.
Source;
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2010/09/general-motors-to-sell-a-diesel-powered-car-in-north-america.html
General Motors has confirmed that it will sell a diesel-powered car on U.S. soil in the future. According to Ward’s Auto, the source of the news is none-other than GM Vice Chairman Tom Stephens. The use of a diesel would mark the first time in almost three decades that a diesel car was sold in the U.S., with the last diesels being sold in Cadillac, Buick and Oldsmobile vehicles in the late ’70s and early ’80s.There’s no additional info on what vehicle could get the new diesel powerplant or even if the diesel engine being considered is new. GM has been offering a diesel version of its Ecotec 4-cylinder in Europe and other markets since 1996. That being said, it would seem easiest to offer a diesel engine in a car like the Buick Regal, which is based off the European Opel Insignia and is already offered with a choice of several diesel powerplants overseas including an upcoming twin-turbo 2.0-liter CDTi Ecotec motor making 190-hp and 300 ft-lbs of torque.
Source;
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2010/09/general-motors-to-sell-a-diesel-powered-car-in-north-america.html
Monday, September 27, 2010
Next-Gen Acura Legend (RL) a Go
9:57 AM
rin
There were reports that development of the next-generation Acura RL was postponed, but Honda president Takanobu Ito has confirmed that it’s all go for Acura’s next full-size luxury car. Many have pointed to the current RL’s V-6 engine as the weak point in the car’s equipment lineup, saying V-8-power and smoothness are necessary to compete in this segment. Therefore, the next RL will feature Honda’s large displacement hybrid powerplant under its hood. Also, as you can see from this drawing, the front grille will look much different than the “shield” design used on today’s Acura cars. That said, don’t be surprised to the “shield” still be used on U.S. cars. As for me, I’ll take this grille, thank you.Source;
http://blog.roadandtrack.com/next-gen-acura-legend-rl-a-go/
Freak Segway accident kills company owner
9:35 AM
rin
LONDON - The British millionaire businessman who owns the firm Segway has been found dead at the bottom of a cliff with one of the two-wheeled electric scooters near his body, police said on Monday.Jimi Heselden, 62, who bought the U.S.-based firm, and who was also chairman of Hesco Bastion, was discovered in a river near Leeds, northern England, on Sunday.
The incident, described as a freak accident in the media, was not being treated as suspicious. A Segway was found near his body, a police spokeswoman said. “It is with great sadness that we have to confirm that Jimi Heselden has died in a tragic accident near his home in West Yorkshire,” Hesco Bastion said in a statement.
A family spokesman said speculation about the cause of his death had been deeply upsetting.
“There is absolutely nothing to suggest it was anything other than a tragic accident,” he said in a statement.
Invented by Dean Kamen, the self-balancing Segway scooter was made famous by then U.S. President George W. Bush when he took one for a spin, only to jump off after losing control.
Heselden, a former miner who left school at the age of 15, became a wealthy businessman, donating millions of pounds to charity. This month, he gave 10 million pounds ($16 million) to a community project which helps disadvantaged areas.
He made his fortune with Leeds-based Hesco Bastion, which developed a flat-pack wire mesh “blast wall” container, replacing the traditional sandbags, used by British and coalition troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Media reports said Heselden was one of Britain’s richest men, with a fortune put at 166 million pounds ($260 million).
Source;
http://www.torontosun.com/news/world/2010/09/27/15487901.html
Euro Honda: Honda Jazz Hybrid, Fully Flexible
9:21 AM
rin
The world debut of the Jazz Hybrid at the Paris motor show will offer the first opportunity to see that Honda has added IMA hybrid technology to the innovative hatchback while still retaining the flexibility of its unique folding Magic Seats.Importantly in the Jazz Hybrid the integration of the hybrid system into the car has not diminished the interior space, with the boot floor remaining at the same level as the current 1.2 and 1.4 Jazz models. The IMA battery pack and power control unit have been integrated in the area under the boot floor, keeping the normal boot (above floor) area of 300 litres 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 large boot space of 831 litres or the seat bases can be folded to sit vertically to accommodate tall items within the car.
The IMA hybrid motor and control system are 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 behind it, the Honda IMA system has proven itself to be a flexible and dependable technology, with over half a million vehicles on the road benefitting from its combination of low emissions and fuel economy.
The Jazz Hybrid will feature the same 1.3 litre i-VTEC as the Insight hybrid and despite its taller, more flexibility focussed shape, the new car has CO2 emissions of a similar level at 104 g/km* according to internal Honda tests. Like the Insight and Civic Hybrid models, the Jazz Hybrid will be capable of running on the electric motor alone under some medium and low speed conditions and this contributes to a combined fuel consumption figure of just 4.4 l/100km*.
The Jazz hybrid will go on sale in some European markets in the early part of 2011, prices homologated emissions levels and full specifications will be announced in due course.
Source;
http://www.hondanews.eu/en/news/index.pmode/modul,detail,0,1586-DEFAULT,21,text,1/index.pmode
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Road & Track: Honda Contemplates a CR-Z Convertible
7:33 AM
rin
September 24, 2010 by Sam MitaniWe have reported about the possibility of an S2000 successor for many months, and now we’re hearing reports that it may indeed happen, but not in the way we previously imagined. Our sources in Tokyo have told us that Honda is putting a priority on adding a sports car in its lineup; the execs feel that a sports car is a necessity to uphold its brand image. While there have been many debates and arguments within the walls of Honda HQ’s Aoyama-based offices buildings about the details of the car, many believe that the best first step may be to use the CR-Z hybrid car’s platform. Despite its front-drive layout, performance will be increased via a stronger engine and lighter weight. If such a car can be created, it would go up against the likes of the Mazda MX-5. After this car is established, then Honda would move on to create a rear-drive high-powered sports car, probably with a hybrid powerplant. We’ll keep you up to date as news develops.
Source (via autoblog);
http://blog.roadandtrack.com/honda-contemplates-a-cr-z-convertible/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
Friday, September 24, 2010
2012 Honda Civic Interior Inspired by Honda's Open Concept
9:29 AM
rin
Just an observation really, the top photo is of the "Open Concept" in 2008 and the bottom one is of the spyshot from www.vtec.net with Brenda Priddy....
Spyshot Source;
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=924038
Spyshot Source;http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=924038
2011 Honda Odyssey debuts
8:23 AM
rin
Minivan on display this weekend at Georgian College Auto Show
BARRIE - The 2011 Honda Odyssey minivan will be making its Canadian debut this Friday (Sept. 24) at the 25th annual Georgian College Auto Show in Barrie.
The Odyssey, which is set to go on sale Oct. 22, will be on display at the Honda exhibit Friday from noon until 6 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday (Sept. 25 and 26) it will be on display from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Georgian College’s Barrie campus is located at 1 Georgian Dr. More information is available online at www.georgianc.on.ca.
"The all-new Odyssey is set to once again redefine the minivan segment as the benchmark of minivans," said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president of Honda Canada Inc. "Never before has so much space, functionality and comfort been combined with this much style, safety, advanced technology and fuel economy all in a fun-to-drive package.”
This model will feature over 50 new features. One of the notable improvements include a new “three-mode” second row seat design that can expand laterally. This seating design accommodates three passengers with improved comfort and increased legroom. The new tapered cabin allows for better viewing for third row passengers.
A more powerful and efficient 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine features a variable cylinder management system, allowing for better fuel economy. The 2011 Odyssey also has 248 horsepower, an increase of four over last year’s model.
Also debuting this year for the standard model is a five-speed automatic transmission. The touring edition will come equipped with a standard six-speed.
Now in its 41st year of operation in Canada, Honda Canada Inc. has sold more than 3,375,000 Honda and Acura passenger cars and light-duty trucks in Canada. A record high 91 per cent of the Honda and Acura vehicles sold in Canada in 2009 were produced at the company's assembly plants in North America, up nearly 3 per cent from 2008.
Since 1986, Honda has built more than 5,400,000 cars and trucks at its assembly facilities in Alliston, Ontario. More than half of all vehicles sold in Canada last year were also made in Canada. Prior to 2004, the Odyssey model was built in Alliston.
The 2011 Odyssey will be sold for manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $29,990.
Source;
http://www.simcoe.com/news/article/878026--2011-honda-odyssey-debuts
BARRIE - The 2011 Honda Odyssey minivan will be making its Canadian debut this Friday (Sept. 24) at the 25th annual Georgian College Auto Show in Barrie.The Odyssey, which is set to go on sale Oct. 22, will be on display at the Honda exhibit Friday from noon until 6 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday (Sept. 25 and 26) it will be on display from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Georgian College’s Barrie campus is located at 1 Georgian Dr. More information is available online at www.georgianc.on.ca.
"The all-new Odyssey is set to once again redefine the minivan segment as the benchmark of minivans," said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president of Honda Canada Inc. "Never before has so much space, functionality and comfort been combined with this much style, safety, advanced technology and fuel economy all in a fun-to-drive package.”
This model will feature over 50 new features. One of the notable improvements include a new “three-mode” second row seat design that can expand laterally. This seating design accommodates three passengers with improved comfort and increased legroom. The new tapered cabin allows for better viewing for third row passengers.
A more powerful and efficient 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine features a variable cylinder management system, allowing for better fuel economy. The 2011 Odyssey also has 248 horsepower, an increase of four over last year’s model.
Also debuting this year for the standard model is a five-speed automatic transmission. The touring edition will come equipped with a standard six-speed.
Now in its 41st year of operation in Canada, Honda Canada Inc. has sold more than 3,375,000 Honda and Acura passenger cars and light-duty trucks in Canada. A record high 91 per cent of the Honda and Acura vehicles sold in Canada in 2009 were produced at the company's assembly plants in North America, up nearly 3 per cent from 2008.
Since 1986, Honda has built more than 5,400,000 cars and trucks at its assembly facilities in Alliston, Ontario. More than half of all vehicles sold in Canada last year were also made in Canada. Prior to 2004, the Odyssey model was built in Alliston.
The 2011 Odyssey will be sold for manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $29,990.
Source;
http://www.simcoe.com/news/article/878026--2011-honda-odyssey-debuts
Honda Takes Over Times Square for First-Ever 3-D Launch of All- New 2011 CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe
7:10 AM
rin
09/23/2010 - NEW YORKHonda held the first-ever takeover of Times Square in 3-D technology today to support the launch of the all-new CR-Z sport hybrid coupe. Spanning five blocks of Times Square, the event marked the first time 3-D footage was broadcast to the public space. As a part of the takeover, Honda ran 3-D CR-Z commercial footage on the Times Square HD Spectacolor screen (located on Broadway between 46th and 47th Street), displayed several CR-Z's and sponsored a special performance from chart-topping hip-hop trio, N.E.R.D. An estimated 250,000 people attended the CR-Z event in Times Square today.
Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/honda-takes-over-times-square-for-first-ever-3-d-launch-of-all-new-2011-cr-z-sport-hybrid-coupe
Hyundai Launches Next Gen i10, New i10 priced at Rs. 3.48 - 5.9 Laks - New i10 Kappa2 Photos, Pics, Images
12:02 AM
rin
Hyundai India face lifted its successful entry level hatchback " i10" with major changes both in exterior and interior on 23rd, September, 2010. The new i10 got a new sporty front grill with new head lamps. The pricing of the new Hyundai i10 starts at Rs 3.48lakh and goes upto Rs 5.9lakh.
The ‘Next Gen i10’ will replace the existing i10 and will be available in two petrol engine variants of 1.1 litre with a mileage of 19.81 km per litre, and 1.2 litre with a fuel economy of 20.36 km per litre.
New Next Gen Hyundai i10 Exterior Photos:
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Honda working to address environmental challenges
8:59 AM
rin
By Masahiro Takedagawa, For The Calgary HeraldBased on our commitment to innovation and original technology creation, Honda is working to help address the world's environmental challenges, such as global climate change, emissions reduction and energy sustainability.
Honda is taking a comprehensive portfolio approach that involves advanced powertrain and energy technologies for the near and longer terms.
Honda's unique strategy also includes further improvements to gasoline-engine fuel efficiency, including the expanding use of gasoline-electric hybrid technology; the development of viable alternatives to gasoline, including compressed natural gas, non-food-based biofuels, electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered fuel-cell electric cars; and advanced energy production and distribution technologies including solar cells, co-generation systems and more efficient means of producing renewable biofuels.
IMPROVING FUEL EFFICIENCY
Ever since the company was founded, we have focused on meeting the mobility needs of our customers as well as concern for the environment, including leadership in fuel efficiency and emission-reduction technologies.
In the 1960s, Honda reinforced its commitment by establishing its Blue Skies for Our Children philosophy, and has maintained its position as a fuel-efficiency leader.
Honda is committed to further advancements in internal combustion engine efficiency, with a focus on the broad application of technologies such as VTEC and Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), and with the expanded application of pinnacle technologies such as Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system.
-As one of the most affordable hybrids available on the road today, the five-passenger Honda Insight, utilizes an interactive Ecological Drive Assist System to help enhance customers' fuel-efficient driving capabilities.
-Our new two-seat CR-Z sports hybrid expands Honda's line of hybrid vehicles by offering good fuel economy with sporty characteristics.
-Second-generation VCM technology is being used in theAccord V-6 sedan and coupe, Pilot SUV, Accord Crosstour and Odyssey minivan.
-Extensive use of advanced materials that improve fuel economy while allowing engineers to meet other critical targets such as vehicle safety.
REDUCING EMISSIONS
Honda has led all automakers in the introduction of vehicles that meet or exceed increasingly stringent exhaust emissions regulation:
-First gasoline-powered vehicles to meet American LEV, ULEV, SU-LEV, and AT-PZEV certifications.
-For model year 2011, all Honda and Acura vehicles meet or exceed Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards on an individual model basis, without the use of fleet averaging.
-Honda has been a leader in the application of overhead valve four-stroke engines to its power sports and power equipment product lines. All 2008 and newer Honda motorcycles, including competition models, and all Honda power equipment lines use OHV four-stroke engine technology.
FUEL-CELL TECHNOLOGY
Honda has paced the industry in the development and deployment of fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) technology as well as the refuelling infrastructure that will be required to take it to the mass market.
-Honda introduced the world's first production fuel-cell vehicle, the Honda FCX, in the U.S. and Japan in October 2002.
-Honda's FCX Clarity, the successor to the FCX, was the world's first purpose-built fuel-cell electric vehicle and the first to be manufactured on a dedicated production line.
-The FCX Clarity, with Honda's compact and efficient V Flow fuel-cell stack, achieves performance on par with a four-cylinder, five-passenger, gasoline-powered sedan but with three times the fuel efficiency.
CLEANER-ENERGY RESEARCH
Honda's efforts have gone beyond developing new vehicle technologies.
Honda has also focused its research and development resources on the creation of new sources of cleaner power.
-Solar cells: Honda-developed photovoltaic solar cells significantly reduce the energy and carbon-dioxide emissions in the manufacturing phase. Honda subsidiary Soltec Ltd. began mass production of Honda solar cells at its new Kumamoto, Japan, factory in October 2008. We will also be using these solar cells at our new Honda headquarters in Markham, Ont.
-Flexible fuel: Honda has developed a flexible-fuel system that enables engines to operate on either 100 per cent ethanol or a wide range of ethanol-gasoline fuel mixtures.
-Biofuel: To address the need for more efficient means of producing bio-ethanol in other areas of the world, Honda R&D and the Research Institute of Innovative Technology for the Earth (RITE) are researching new technology to produce ethanol from soft-biomass, a renewable resource of plant-derived material.
There are numerous environmental challenges, and there are also numerous potential solutions to meet issues. That is why we have adopted a portfolio approach instead of only focusing on one specific technology.
In the near term, however, we believe optimum benefits will come from further advancements to fuel-efficient gasoline engines as well as gas-electric hybrid technology to help reduce our products' greenhouse gas emissions.
Source;
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Opel Meriva Concept
7:14 AM
rin
I understand that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but whoa, this is officially the ugliest prototype i've ever seen....
Source;
http://visions-autos.sport24.com/596288/Design-retour-de-la-Porte-Suicide-et-de-la-porte-Coulissante/
Source;http://visions-autos.sport24.com/596288/Design-retour-de-la-Porte-Suicide-et-de-la-porte-Coulissante/
AMS Terra Brings the Space Invader Theme to Honda's CR-Z Hybrid Coupe
6:52 AM
rin
This is AMS's take on the new Honda CR-Z hybrid sports coupe/hatch, and it's called the Terra. The CR-Z, which already looks nice as a cute little sporty hybrid, has been dropped on 19-inch RAYS Versus Torismo Rechente one-off rollers that have been finished in piano black and pearl white.The front of the car gets a new front bumper - with or without a license plate holder- and some "eyeline garnish", while both front and rear fenders have been widened (15 mm and 70 mm, respectively). Also, the side sills get their WIDE on to the tune of 30 mm.
Up above, there's a roof lip and rear hatch spoiler. The rear of the car is where the magic really happens, though: the Terra gets an alien-inspired rear diffuser with twin center exhaust outlets for the sports muffler.
Although the performance of the car hardly requires such aggressive and excessive styling, it's nice to see people at least taking a stab at it.
Interested in taking your sporty hybrid to the next visual level? Expect a full painted kit (including exhaust bezels and the diffuser-mounted tail light) to run well north of $5,000.
By Phil Alex
Source;
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2010/09/ams-terra-brings-space-invader-theme-to.html
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Honda to overhaul sourcing method for emerging markets push
7:55 AM
rin
(Reuters) - Honda Motor Co will overhaul its sourcing strategy by ditching its one-spec-fits-all method on global car models to better compete with Hyundai Motor and others in emerging markets, an executive said on Tuesday.Honda, Japan's No.2 automaker, has until now used a common blueprint for components on cars built and sold globally for efficiency's sake, and to offer consumers around the world the same specifications for those models.
But Masaya Yamashita, head of Honda's purchasing operations, said that strategy was outdated and making some of its cars unnecessarily pricier in China, India and other regions at a time when South Korea's Hyundai and others were boosting sales with cars that were a better fit for local consumers.
"Hyundai has become a very tough competitor for us and they're growing at an incredible pace, along with Chinese and Indian automakers, because they're looking at components from a new angle," Yamashita told Reuters in an interview.
"The stereotype used to be that the cheap prices came from lower quality, but that's no longer the case. We need to operate with a brand new standard for components," he said.
By coming up with several different blueprints on vehicle components, Honda would aim to slash purchasing costs on the next-generation Fit subcompact, one of its best-selling models, by about 20 to 30 percent in emerging markets, Yamashita said. The fully remodeled Fit, expected around 2012 or later, would be the first car to reflect the new sourcing method, he said.
Honda builds the Fit, called Jazz in some markets, in Japan, China, India, Thailand, Indonesia, Britain and Brazil, and currently uses the same design and materials for most components in all seven countries.
That means components must meet the highest common denominator for specifications, leading to steep costs, he said.
"For example, if we were designing a cup, we're designing one that could withstand the intense heat in India all the way up to the freezing weather in Canada, and that's a waste."
BROADER SELECTION
Yamashita said automakers were now able to choose from a broader selection of competitive parts makers in many Asian markets thanks to the expansion of Western suppliers, the entry of Hyundai's Korean suppliers and the improved quality of homegrown parts makers in emerging markets.
"Doing business with new suppliers is helpful in giving us fresh ideas for designing parts," Yamashita said. "In the long run, this kind of competition will also be good for Japanese parts makers that we've done most of our work with so far."
Japanese suppliers are already under intense pressure to slash costs, disadvantaged by a strong yen.
Honda has said there was little the automaker could do in the near term to avoid currency-related losses.
But Yamashita said Honda had asked some of its domestic suppliers to shift production of components manufactured and used in Japan to their Asian factories to lower purchasing costs.
"We usually wouldn't do this for the duration of a vehicle's model cycle, which is typically about five years, but we've asked some suppliers to do this," Yamashita said.
"If the dollar continues to trade around 85 yen, it's inevitable that the import ratio of parts will rise."
Source;
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE68K0OT20100921
Car and Driver: 2011 Ford Fiesta vs. 2010 Honda Fit, 2011 Mazda 2 - Comparison Tests
6:56 AM
rin
Most drivers in Europe motor around in small, efficient hatchbacks without feeling like failures. But here, in America—the hell with the gas bill—size still matters. On the Continent, the social stigma that’s attached to driving a very small car isn’t as virulent and deprecating as it continues to be for many drivers in the U.S.So Ford is trying, once again, to take the edge off that particular shame with its latest Fiesta—a snazzy-looking, Euro-transplant B-segment subcompact that emphasizes lots of features and high fuel economy. Mazda enters the fray with its 2, first released in Europe in 2007 and, ironically, riding on the same platform as the Fiesta (they share the same 98.0-inch wheelbase). These new releases make Honda’s product planners look like fortune tellers who were right to take a chance on bringing the first-generation Fit here in 2006, then following up in 2009 with the second-generation model.
Because these cars extol the European automotive virtues of snappy handling and fuel efficiency, we decided to test them in the most European-feeling city in North America: Montreal. The city is actually on an island in the vast St. Lawrence River, and the old quarter has cobblestone streets filled with ancient churches, beckoning cafés, and charcuteries. As in Europe, most of the population speaks a language you don’t, although some Montréalais defaulted into English after encountering a few seconds of our blank staring.
The 600-mile trip from Ann Arbor to Montreal is almost as far as a run from Paris to Berlin. Our hot day began with distinct Euro flair at lunch in southern Ontario, where our finicky managing editor was alarmed to see his root beer served without ice. Zut alors! Speaking of refreshment, all three cars come standard with air conditioning, even at their dollar-menu starting prices. The Fiesta begins at $13,995 in four-door trim. If you prefer, as we do, the style of the five-door, the minimum is $15,795. The Mazda and Honda come in one body style only and start at $14,730 and $15,650, respectively. In instant-ramen trim, all three of these cars have anti-lock brakes, power windows and locks, and plenty of airbags.
For our test, though, we rounded up the more “luxurious” versions. The feature-heavy Fiesta SES comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, LED parking lights decked out with chrome, satellite radio, and the Sync infotainment system. Another $795 adds a package with keyless ignition, heated front seats, and extra chrome. As-tested price: $18,770.
Honda also throws 16-inch alloys on the uplevel Fit Sport, in addition to a body kit, chrome exhaust tips, fog lights, cruise control, remote entry, and a rear anti-roll bar. Navigation and stability control (our test car was produced early in the year, before the ability to combine this option with the manual transmission disappeared) cost an extra $1850. Add in dealer-installed rubber floor mats, for $130, and our test car rang up at a rich $19,140.
“Sport” indicates the base Mazda 2 trim. We sampled the grander Touring model, with alloy wheels, fog lights, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, a trip computer, and a rear spoiler. All that added up to $16,185, nearly three grand cheaper than the Fit.
After more than 1300 miles of mostly suffering through Ontario’s 401 freeway (think Nebraska), touring Montreal’s environs, and exploring the edge of the wilderness of Quebec, we can report with assurance that none of these diminutive hatches suffers from a Napoleon complex. All three belong at the top of the heap in the subcompact class, and one belongs at the very top
3rd Place: 2011 Ford Fiesta SES
Highs: Rock-solid chassis, quiet on the road, high-class looks.
Lows: Slower than a Mumbai bureaucrat, worst fuel economy here, disconnected shifter, windshield glare.
The Verdict: Getting the bronze medal still means you’re a winner, right?
Here's a link to the full review;
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/10q3/2011_ford_fiesta_vs._2010_honda_fit_2011_mazda_2-comparison_tests/2011_ford_fiesta_ses_page_2
2nd Place: 2011 Mazda 2 Touring
Highs: Low curb weight, Miata-style driving fun, value priced.
Lows: Low on features, soft seat cushion, feels cheap over bumps.
The Verdict: A featherweight, but no lightweight.
Here's a link to the full review;
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/10q3/2011_ford_fiesta_vs._2010_honda_fit_2011_mazda_2-comparison_tests/2011_mazda_2_touring_page_3
1st Place: 2010 Honda Fit Sport
Highs: Cavernous interior, near-perfect ergonomics, strong engine, goes the farthest on a gallon. Lows: Trucklike braking distance, wind noise, looks that only a mother could appreciate.
The Verdict: Everything we love in a tiny, affordable car.
Here's the link to the full review;
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/10q3/2011_ford_fiesta_vs._2010_honda_fit_2011_mazda_2-comparison_tests/2010_honda_fit_sport_page_4
TOV & Priddy: 2012 Civic Sedan Interior Spied!
6:40 AM
rin
Here is a link to 2X spyshots of the next gen Honda Civic's interior....
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=924038
Here's what Brenda Priddy's team has to say accompanying the spyshots....
SPIED INSIDE & OUT:
'12 Honda Civic!! Honda engineers had been trying very hard to hide the interior of the 2012 Civic from us, but today we got lucky and can REVEAL the next-gen interior!
Our photos show that the center stack now appears more oriented towards the driver. We can also see the dual-pod setup on the dash has undergone a redesign. Almost all the audio and HVAC controls are new as well as the air vents and the steering wheel.
Originally, the 9th gen Civic was set to debut in the Summer of 2010 as a 2011 model, but once CAFE regulations changed and the auto industry hit hard times in 2009, Honda had to rethink things. Rumors stated Honda originally wanted to make the Civic larger, but as you can see from the photos, the overall size of the 2012 Civic will remain largely unchanged.
While the camouflage is pretty heavy, we can see peeks at a new grille and headlights. The front end looks more upright overall as well. The doors also have some fresh character lines.
The current Civic has a 1.8L 4-cylinder, however, rumors are floating around that the base motor may get bumped to 2.0L. No rumors yet on what might be lurking under the Si's hood.'
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=924038
Here's what Brenda Priddy's team has to say accompanying the spyshots....
SPIED INSIDE & OUT:
'12 Honda Civic!! Honda engineers had been trying very hard to hide the interior of the 2012 Civic from us, but today we got lucky and can REVEAL the next-gen interior!
Our photos show that the center stack now appears more oriented towards the driver. We can also see the dual-pod setup on the dash has undergone a redesign. Almost all the audio and HVAC controls are new as well as the air vents and the steering wheel.
Originally, the 9th gen Civic was set to debut in the Summer of 2010 as a 2011 model, but once CAFE regulations changed and the auto industry hit hard times in 2009, Honda had to rethink things. Rumors stated Honda originally wanted to make the Civic larger, but as you can see from the photos, the overall size of the 2012 Civic will remain largely unchanged.
While the camouflage is pretty heavy, we can see peeks at a new grille and headlights. The front end looks more upright overall as well. The doors also have some fresh character lines.
The current Civic has a 1.8L 4-cylinder, however, rumors are floating around that the base motor may get bumped to 2.0L. No rumors yet on what might be lurking under the Si's hood.'
Monday, September 20, 2010
2012 Honda Civic to be unveiled in Detroit
8:14 AM
rin
Honda Canada invited some auto writers to a media roundtable the other night, looking for feedback on what the consumer is thinking.While we emphasized the demand for technology that works as simply as the iPhone and iPad (and connects to them too) as well as more clean diesel engines, the more interesting news of the night was the confirmation the 2012 Honda Civic will be unveiled this fall at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Calling the new car "beautiful" and an evolution rather than revolution like the current model, Jerry Chenkin, Executive Vice President of Honda Canada, said he had driven the new Civic and that it would "set a new standard" for interior excellence. He said the new Civic will have "better numbers" all around, but wouldn't elaborate, saying only that the same body styles currently offered would continue.
The new Civic is a year late after Honda's new president Takanobu Ito took one look at what was to be the 2011 Civic and went "yeck." Chenkin said the car would likely be in showrooms by May 2011 as a 2012 model year car. As much as we tried for more info on the Civic, it wasn't coming, even after we plied Mr. Chenkin with red wine. He did admit under torturous questioning, however, that the 2010 Honda Insight hybrid was an "unmitigated disaster" because it was lacking the quality and value usually found in a Honda. That's frank talk from a car-company executive, but he is absolutely right. When was the last time you saw an Insight?
Source;
http://communities.canada.com/driving/blogs/driving/archive/2010/06/30/2012-honda-civic-to-be-unveiled-in-detroit.aspx
Renaul Fluence Photos | Renault Fluence Picture | Renault Fluence Launch Date, Images
1:53 AM
rin
French car maker Renault planning to launch their beautiful sedan "Fluence" in the Indian market later this year. Renault Fluence will compete with Fiat Linea, Maruti SX4, Volkswagen Vento and Honda City. Renault Fluence will be priced at around Rs. 7-10 Lakhs.Renault Fluence Exterior Photos:
Renault Fluence Interior Photos:
