No Accord & CR-V diesels for the Indian market says, Honda’s Jnaneswar Sen

For quite some time now, Honda has been selling diesel engined variants of the Honda Accord sedan and the CR-V crossover in the European market. The engine in question is a 2.2 liter, four cylinder turbo diesel unit, which in different states of tune, has been powering the Accord and the CR-V. In India though, Honda has been steadfastly avoiding the option of offering the Accord and the CR-V with the diesel engine stating that this engine is not suitable for the Indian market due to the quality of diesel available in India not matching European standards, to which this engine is said to be designed.

Here’s what Honda SIEL Cars India’s senior vice president for sales and marketing, Jnaneswar Sen has had to say about why Honda will not launch a diesel engined Accord or CR-V,
While it is technically possible to downgrade both these engines, the low volumes of the Accord and CR-V (in India) do not justify it. Also the engines for the European market have been developed taking into account the low sulphur content in the diesel there, unlike in India.
That said, the prescribed standard for ultra low sulphur diesel for most of the European Union confirming to Euro V emission norms is 10 ppm(parts per million), the ultra low sulphur available in India from 2010 confirms to 15 ppm, which is very close to the EU figure. All in all, this news would come as a dampener to many prospective Accord and CR-V buyers, who for long have been hoping for diesel engined variants of these cars. One factor however, could work in favor of the Accord and CR-V in the future.

Honda is said to be developing a more powerful version of the 1.6 liter i-DTEC turbo diesel engine with EarthDreams technology, that was recently showcased at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The more powerful version of this engine, pumping out 160 Bhp and 349 Nm is said to be aimed at replacing the current 2.2 Liter diesel engine. If that happens, Honda’s bad Indian diesel talk might not be a valid reason anymore in case the 1.6 Liter i-DTEC engine powers the 2012 Honda Civic in India as well.

For now though, Honda’s current focus seems to be on small capacity diesel engines that could power the likes of the Brio and the Jazz in the Indian market, and more importantly these cars would bring in the much needed volumes for the car maker. However, it remains to be seen how well Honda manages to adapt the under-development diesel engines to work with Indian diesel, for that would make or break the brand, highly renowned for its engine technology globally, in the Indian car market.

Source;
http://www.indiancarsbikes.in/cars/honda-accord-cr-v-2012-diesel-india-57299/

Honda Statement on the first anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake

Thank you for your continuous understanding and support for Honda's activities.

One year has passed since the Great East Japan Earthquake that occurred on March 11, 2011. Honda would like to express its deepest sympathy and condolences to the victims of the disaster and our sincere hopes for the earliest possible reconstruction of the affected areas.

Despite the fact that we caused our customers some inconvenience during the past year due to the impact of the earthquake, such as delays in the delivery of some new products, we received a great outpouring of support and heartwarming messages from our friends and customers inside and outside of Japan. For this we are extremely grateful.

Honda would like to contribute to the earliest possible reconstruction of the affected areas by continuing our support activities and by dedicating ourselves to continue delivering products and services that please our customers.

In Europe, Honda have set challenging plans to achieve complete recovery as shown by the 2011 launch of the new Civic and seven all new motorcycle models. Furthermore, we are recruiting 500 new employees at our European manufacturing facility to support the Autumn launch of our all new European CR-V.

We appreciate your continuous support for our activities.

11 March, 2012
Ken Keir,
Executive Vice President, Honda Motor Europe

Source;
http://www.hondanews.eu/en/news/index.pmode/modul,detail,0,2204-DEFAULT,21,text,1/index.pmode

Honda Motor Europe President, Manabu Nishimae delivers Geneva Press Conference Speech

-New Civic with 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine will deliver CO2 emissions of 95 g/km*
-NSX will be sold in Europe as a Honda
-New European CR-V prototype makes debut
-UK factory to double 2012 production volumes to 180,000

A full transcript of the speech follows:

Good morning, and welcome to Honda's media conference. I am very pleased to be here with you today.

Last year proved to be a very challenging year due to the natural disasters in Japan and in Thailand that impacted on our supply of new vehicles. Our ability to deliver cars to the customers who wanted them was restricted. Our Thai plant resumes full production within a month and all other production activity is fully restored. Whilst we must learn from recent history, we now look forward to what is an exciting future.

This is an important show for Honda. We are displaying products and technologies that will be at the heart of our growth plans for Europe. We are now entering a period of numerous product launches which will see Honda increase production volumes and increase sales.

In 2012, our UK factory will double production volumes to 180,000 units. In May, the New Civic assembly line will start a double shift and 500 new workers will join us.
Later in the year we start production of the New European CR-V.

The all New CR-V will be built in Europe and will be introduced in the Autumn with improved quality, performance, and enhanced fuel economy, along with new features unique for the European market. Today, we are showing a European CR-V prototype. We will display the production model at the Paris show in September.

Honda will also renew our entire European engine line-up, with a new engine series called Earth Dreams Technology. With these engines we aim to be Number 1 in fuel economy in each sector within 3 years.

The first engine from this series will be a new 1.6 litre diesel engine. Designed for Europe, it is expected to deliver 95 grammes per kilometre CO2 emissions and is the world's lightest engine in its class. It will be introduced on the New Civic and production starts at our UK factory at the end of this year.

Earth Dreams Technology engines will also deliver excellent performance characteristics. And at the summit of this range.... There is the new NSX.

This NSX Concept is powered by a mid-engine V6 ... and a new Sport Hybrid All-Wheel Drive system that comprises of 1 motor on the rear axle and 2 on the front. Supercar acceleration and outstanding efficiency will be the hallmarks of this revolutionary powertrain. The two motors in the front axle enable independent control of the left and right wheels to realize a ground-breaking "On-the-rail-cornering" experience. New NSX is set to define a new standard of Super Sport.
The US will launch new NSX with the Acura brand in 3 years. I can confirm the NSX will come to Europe....as a Honda.

NSX is the ultimate top-line Sports model, could we develop a smaller one? The EV-STER is another European premiere. This small sports EV Concept indicates the direction of how environmental technology can be incorporated with the pure joy of driving.

Our sporty plans are not limited to new models. A half century ago, Honda established the Suzuka circuit in Japan. It was the first racing track in Asia.

In October, at the Suzuka round, we plan to enter a European Civic into the FIA World Touring Car Championship. This celebrates the 50th anniversary of Suzuka Circuit. It also marks the 40th anniversary of Civic.

This racing Civic will be powered by Honda's new 1.6 direct injection turbo racing engine solely developed by Honda R&D. This is an important first step as we enhance the sportiness of Civic and the Honda brand.

Through Earth Dreams Technology, Honda will continue to minimise our environmental footprint so that we will all be able to enjoy sports driving for future generations and preserve Blue Skies for Our Children.

Thank you for your attention.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.eu/en/news/index.pmode/modul,detail,0,2198-DEFAULT,21,text,1/index.pmode

Honda Reveals Images of the European CR-V Prototype

Honda has revealed images of the European CR-V Prototype ahead of its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 6 March 2012.

This preview model highlights the exterior styling direction of the all-new fourth generation European Honda CR-V, which is set to go on sale in Autumn 2012.

Compared to the previous generation, this Prototype adopts a more aggressive stance with deeper sculpting of the body lines and a bolder front fascia. The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability, while the lower front bumper design now integrates more smoothly into the fascia for improved aerodynamics.

The Honda Press Conference will take place at 09.15 CET on Tuesday 6 March.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.eu/en/news/index.pmode/modul,detail,0,2183-DEFAULT,21,text,1/index.pmode

New Honda Civic awarded 5 stars by Euro NCAP

The new Honda Civic has been awarded Euro NCAP's maximum 5-star rating, following publication of the safety body's independent crash testing results.
In addition, Euro NCAP have announced that they are extending Honda's Euro NCAP Advanced reward for its Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) technology to include the new Civic.

The rating scheme focuses on the vehicle's overall safety performance which gives consumers an easy to understand single score. The system considers occupant protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and the availability of driver aids. Since the introduction of Euro NCAP's new rating scheme in February 2009, all Honda models tested have achieved 5-stars.

Euro NCAP also announced that they are extending Honda's Advanced NCAP reward for its CMBS technology to include the new Civic. The reward recognises Honda's CMBS technology as amongst the best available safety innovations, offering proven benefits. Euro NCAP Advanced is an initiative developed in response to the rapid development of new safety technologies, for which there is no independent assessment.

Honda's Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) is a radar-based autonomous emergency braking system designed to help prevent collisions with vehicles which are stationary or travelling in the same direction. The system is aimed at alerting the driver to an imminent collision both at low speeds, typical of urban driving, and at higher speeds typical of rural roads and motorways. By studying accident statistics in Germany and extending the figures to the broader European community, Honda estimates that, if all cars were fitted with CMBS, between 200,000 and 250,000 accidents could be either prevented or mitigated every year.

Honda uses its own car-to-car crash test facility at the Tochigi R&D centre allows the Japanese manufacturer to analyse impacts between models of different sizes and weights and develops solutions to mitigate injuries for both passengers and pedestrians. The omni-directional vehicle-to-vehicle crash test facility opened in 2001 and is the world's first indoor facility of its type.

Source;
http://www.newcarnet.co.uk/Honda_news.html?id=11913

2012 Honda Jazz Si

New Jazz Models for Europe
Two new Jazz derivatives will also be displayed for the first time. The Jazz Si, on sale from Summer 2012, features an upgraded sporty suspension package and styling changes to the interior and the exterior.
The Jazz 1.2, now with Idle Stop, delivers a reduction in CO2 emissions of 3g/km compared to the standard 1.2 model.

Source;
http://world.honda.com/news/2012/4120206Geneva-Motor-Show-Display/index.html

2012 Euro Civic TV Advertisement

Japan's Magazine X Honda Rumour: Honda sub CRV SUV

There's been a good rumour floating around for awhile about Honda putting together something (more for the Euro market) in the sub-CRV suv size to compete with the popular Nissan Quasquai (similar to North America's Juke).

Source; www.vtec.net member: danielgr

Source page;

http://www.vtec.net/forums/one-message?message_id=1033756

Honda Accord is getting a new diesel engine and the Type S package

Not for North America....

Honda has recently announced that the Accord model will get a new diesel engine, which will generate 180 horsepower, and the Type S package.



According to the Japanese based car manufacturer, the facelifted Honda Accord will soon get a new diesel engine which is expected to develop 180 horsepower. Honda says that the Type S package will also become available for the Accord facelift, which should bring a more aggressive look for both the Japanese station wagon and sedan.



The Honda Accord facelift will get, with the new Type S package, redesigned front grille, new bumpers, chrome insertions, bi-xenon headlights, which will be doubled by fog lights with black chromed surrounding and 18 inch wheels painted in Dark Silver. In the cabin, future customers of the Honda Accord facelift with the Type S package will get black and red leather upholstery with black stitches, black roof, chromed insertions, red illumination for the clusters and aluminum pedals.



Under the hood, the facelifted Honda Accord will be available with a new engine, 2.2 liters in displacement, diesel, i-Dtec, which will be developing a total output of 180 horsepower and it will have a peak torque of 380 Nm. There’s no official word on the prices for the Type S package or the vehicle with the new engine powering it.



Source;

http://www.inautonews.com/honda-accord-is-getting-a-new-diesel-engine-and-the-type-s-package

Honda Civic SUV on way for the UK

Nice! I heard rumblings of this coming, didn't think it would be so soon.... Hmmm, Acura is bringing something new to the compact segment, wouldn't it make sense if....
Honda has set its sights on emulating the runaway success of the Nissan Qashqai – and our exclusive images reveal the car it will pin its hopes on.

The company is keen to boost its profitability in Europe, particularly in the UK, where sales have halved over the last three years. And a new crossover to sit between the Civic and the CR-V is seen as key to its chances of doing so.

The as-yet-unnamed car will be based on a tweaked version of the new Civic’s platform, and go on sale next year. And our illustrations show how it’s likely to look.

Source;
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/276766/honda_civic_suv_on_way.html

Honda plans new range of direct injection petrol and smaller diesel engine

Honda plans new range of direct injection petrol and smaller diesel engine
Among the world best small petrol engine without turbo and direct fuel injection develop for use in Honda car around the world start from last decade is nearly at the end of it life.

As Honda announced at the Tokyo Motor Show that is develop a new generation of engines called Earth Dreams Technology that consist of petrol and diesel engine.Including a CVT that designed for compact cars, as well as another for mid-size (Jazz,City,CR-V,Civic and Accord) and even new dual-clutch 7-speed transmission (integrated into a new SH-AW) for premium end of the range of Accord and Acura.

The new petrol engine will be a DOHC engine with direct injection and VTEC arrangement with an Atkinson cycle lower load cam plus extensive friction reduction technologies.Honda say that they hope to be number one in fuel economy in each category within three years.

The range of 4 cylinder petrol start from 1500 cc 127 hp maximum torque of 15.3 kk.-m,1800 cc for the Civic to upgrade. the 148 horsepower and 2400 cc for the CR-V and Accord is the most powerful 181 hp with maximum torque of 24.4 kk.-m.While V-6 gasoline engine with capacity of 3500 cc, will be upgrade to 310 horsepower, which is more than a V-6 engine in the current version that is installed on the TL or Honda Legend around 30 horsepower.The 660 CC and 2000 CC petrol with not disclose power now is going to replace by new one.

The current 2.2 liter diesel engine that power in European’s Honda will be add with new1600 cc 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine, the maximum power of 118 hp at 4000 rpm and torque is 300 Nm at 2000 rpm, while Honda said the new engine is lighter than diesel engines that currently in the market. And exhaust emissions only 100 grams per kilometer.

The new change will happens in late 2012 in model by model.

Source;
http://autoten.com/2011/12/17/honda-plans-new-range-of-direct-injection-petrol-and-smaller-diesel-engine/

First Drive: 2012 Honda Civic European-Spec

It's Different, but Is It Better?November 07, 2011 / By Paul Horrell
The new Ford Focus and Honda Civic went on sale at roughly the same time, aiming at roughly the same buyers -- but the two were designed with entirely different global philosophies. Thanks to One Ford, the Focus is largely interchangeable in Europe, Asia, and the U.S. Honda, meanwhile, has continued the split-design policy started with the previous-gen Civic. As such, the European model has very little in common with the one sold in the States and elsewhere.

For starters, the European Civic is a hatchback, not a sedan. It has entirely different exterior sheetmetal, rear suspension, and interior. It even has different front frame rails to make space for Europe's bulky 2.2-liter diesel engine.

Because it hasn't gotten into bed with any other car company, Honda is now in the second tier, size-wise. This separation of platforms must therefore count as a scarily expensive decision. Is it worth it?

Certainly the Euro-Civic has a unique selling proposition. As with the Jazz/Fit, the fuel tank is under the front seats. The rear suspension uses a simple, compact torsion beam layout rather than double wishbones, giving the Civic remarkable versatility. There's nothing but fresh air under the rear seats, so you can flip the cushions up against the backrest like in a movie theater, giving a wide floor-to-roof cave that can easily fit a bicycle upright. Even with rear passengers, the trunk is super-deep.

But let's face it, if cargo space is that important, there are plenty of other options, like one of the micro-minivans that are all over the roads in Europe. If the rest of the Civic doesn't have enough engaging characteristics, flip-up rear cushions aren't going to save it.

Cosmetically, this brand-new Euro Civic is an update of the car it replaces. It develops the same styling form, a sort of one-box that tends to the pyramid-shaped, but it's slightly lower than last time, and has a wave-like crease along the sides plus a black goatee at the front.

On the powertrain side, Honda hasn't done enough. Although the automaker used to be regarded as one of the world's most progressive engine-makers, these days it looks out of step with the European market. European buyers are busily downsizing, and gasoline engines in this category tend to be torque-rich direct-injection turbos such as the Ford Ecoboost or Mini 1.6s, or even a 1.2 and 1.4 from Volkswagen. Honda is sticking with port-injected 1.4 and 1.8 VTECs. The 1.4 makes a scant 94 lb-ft. Meh.

At the same time, Honda's diesel is the opposite: It's too big and powerful. Europe's compact car diesels are usually around 1.6 or 1.8 liters in size. Honda's is 2.2-liters, making it an expensive engine for the market. Still, Honda has at least found ways to eke out the fuel consumption -- the reason diesels proliferate. For this size of car, it now balances performance and economy in an attractive fashion. Economy is a bit better than average, and performance is much better than average.

It's not just engine improvements that make these economy gains. Honda obsessed on aerodynamics, both in the body shape and the details. There's an active shutter arrangement for the radiator grille, so that at speed when cooling air isn't needed in quantity, the grille shuts off for smoother airflow over the car. The tail has several small spoilers and fillets to clean air detachment and cut turbulence. More gain came from an idle-stop system. And weight hasn't risen, despite better equipment.

Yes, this is a good engine to use, with a wide spread of torque and decent refinement. Use the sweet six-speed stick sensibly and the rated acceleration (0-62 mph in 8.5 seconds) translates through the major-league torque into muscular passing and corner-exit acceleration.

The previous Civic was set up with a jittery ride and sharp steering. Fun, but tiring on a long trip. It didn't suit the buyers - families, commuters, and business travelers who spend a lot of time on highways. So Honda used the model change to uprate the NVH isolation. It went back to the source with, among other measures, new fluid-filled bushings for the rear suspension. Even more significant, the springs have been softened off. The Euro Civic now has a decently pliant and quiet ride, a contrast to the criticisms leveled at the U.S. version.

Of course, this means extra body lean, but in general the motions when cornering feel well-controlled. The real downer is a new EPS system, which is soggy and lacks road feel through curves. The simplicity of the rear suspension probably doesn't help. Still, the steering does have good straight-line stability and easy placement in urban driving. And it saves fuel versus the old hydraulic system. See where Honda's priorities are?

Honda did consider moving the European and American Civics closer together with this generation, but as the project went along they drifted apart again. There's a lot to like about the Euro car, and its character seems very different from the U.S. one. But both of them seem, in different ways, to have needed a bit more money spent on them. Maybe a single world-car program would have been the way to do it.

Source;
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/sedans/1111_2012_honda_civic_european_spec_first_drive/printer_friendly.html

2012 Honda Civic 5-door Euro-spec in detail [video]

Honda has released new information about the 2012 Civic (Euro-spec).

Designed for maximum efficiency, the car has an aerodynamic shape with a lower front fascia, streamlined mirrors and drag-optimized taillights. Compared to the previous model, the car is 10mm wider and 20mm lower. This gives the vehicle an aggressive stance which can be augmented by 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the cabin is outfitted with 'soft touch' plastics, a redesigned steering wheel and a touchscreen infotainment system. Other highlights include Bluetooth connectivity, additional sound deadening material and a boot that holds 401 liters (14.2 cubic feet) of luggage.

Under the hood, three engines are available. The 1.4-liter i-VTEC produces 100 PS (73 kW / 98 hp) and 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) of torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 13.4 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 187 km/h (116 mph). While it won't win any races, the car averages 5.4 L/100km (52.3 mpg imp) with CO2 emissions of 129 g/km.

For added performance, the 1.8-liter i-VTEC develops 142 PS (104 kW / 139 hp) and 174 Nm (128 lb-ft) of torque. It allows the car to run from 0-100 km/h in 9.1 seconds and hit a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). In terms of efficiency, owners can expect to average 5.8 L/100km (48.7 mpg imp) with CO2 emissions of 137 g/km.

Lastly, the 2.2-liter i-DTEC diesel has 150 PS (110 kW / 148 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. With this engine, the dash to 100 km/h takes 8.5 seconds and the top speed is 217 km/h (135 mph). Despite being the fastest model available, the car is relatively fugal as it consumes 4.2 L/100km (67.2 mpg imp) while emitting 110 g/km.

Source;
http://www.worldcarfans.com/111103137781/2012-honda-civic-5-door-euro-spec-in-detail-video#ixzz1cSe8AOEb

UK 2012 Honda Civic Review

Our verdict on the new Honda Civic – and better efficiency and toned-down looks give hatch added appeal

By Jo Oliveira

The new ninth-generation Honda Civic is more civilised than ever, with improved refinement, toned-down styling and lower running costs. Honda has sold more than 650,000 Civics in the UK since 1973, so the arrival of an all-new version of the Ford Focus rival, built in Swindon, Wiltshire, is big news – and we’ve driven it.

The design represents a gentle evolution rather than the radical overhaul introduced by the old car. It won’t be to everyone’s tastes, but is still sure to get you noticed. The new Civic is 2cm lower, 1cm wider and 3cm longer than before, but a shorter wheelbase leaves it with much longer overhangs.

Other novelties include the high-mounted tail-lamp clusters, the daylight running LEDs and the active grille shutter on diesel models. The light strip spoiler, which bisects the back window, is set 20mm lower than before and a rear wiper has been added, too.

Inside, there’s slightly less space in the rear, although adults still have plenty of head and legroom. The boot is eight litres smaller than before, at 478 litres, but that’s still class-leading. Honda’s flexible seat layout is carried over, allowing you to fold the rear bench flat or fix the seats vertically, freeing up space to slot in bulky objects through the rear doors.

From the driver’s seat, visibility is improved thanks to thinner A-pillars, but the spilt screen still hampers the view to the rear. The dash layout has grown up, too, with the confusing digital dials from the old car making way for a cleaner, more logical design.

Quality has taken a leap with soft-touch materials added everywhere except on the top of the instrument panel. The driver’s seat has better lateral support and now features a pneumatic lumbar support which will be useful on long journeys.

It doesn’t take long behind the wheel to realise Honda’s focus was to improve refinement. The suspension bushes are now filled with fluid, rather than rubber, so the ride is more comfortable, while reinforced door sills and thicker front windows help keep engine noise and tyre roar at bay.
The Civic’s relaxing character is helped by the light steering, which is ideal around town, and a more direct ratio means it’s accurate and quick when you up the pace.

The initial engine line-up will be familiar to owners of the current Civic, although stop-start has been added across the range. The 1.4-litre and 1.8-litre petrol engines have the same outputs as the current model – 99bhp and 140bhp respectively – while the 2.2-litre diesel in the car we drove has been given a more thorough makeover. Power is up by 10bhp and torque by 10Nm, to 148bhp and 350Nm, and fuel economy rises 18 per cent to 67.3mpg.

The large-capacity four-cylinder diesel remains one of the best engines around. It pulls hard from low revs, spins smoothly and has plenty of performance.

Despite being the most expensive option, Honda predicts this engine will be its biggest seller here – at least until a smaller 120bhp 1.6-litre diesel, with less than 100g/km of CO2, arrives this time next year.

For an alternative review of the latest Honda Civic visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

Source;
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrives/274567/new_honda_civic.html

Next Honda Civic Type R will be firm’s first-ever turbo road car

The Honda Civic Type R already has a formidable reputation but the tuning experts at Mugen still think it could be improved. Sources in Japan divulged that Mugen has started development of a package for the model. Actually, the next Honda Civic Type R is believed to be its fastest version ever and is expected to be Honda’s first-ever turbo road car. The Type R is famous in the UK for its high-revving naturally aspirated engine and aggressive styling. To be able to comply with strict emissions standards, there will be some modifications.

A 2.0-litre turbo meant to comply with Euro V emissions regulations will be used instead of the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine, according to AutoExpress. Honda’s 2012 British Touring Car Championship challenger will also be tweaked and will use a similar engine. Because of the turbo, there will be more torque lower in the rev range. This means that a higher gear can be used more frequently to improve efficiency. It’s also expected to have stop-start.

The Type R’s output will increase slightly to 210bhp, enabling the vehicle to accelerate from zero to 62mph in less than 6.5 seconds and to reach a top speed nearing 150mph. The Type R will feature the standard car’s front grille, slim headlights and LED daytime running lights. However, most of the bodywork will be uprated. It will appear more stunning with a front end with large mesh air intakes, a lower chin spoiler and chunky side skirts. It will be more stable at high speeds due to its rear diffuser and extended spoiler. To improve the balance in corners, it will have the standard Civic’s longer, wider chassis. As a result, ride comfort and grip are improved as well.

Source;

http://www.4wheelsnews.com/next-honda-civic-type-r-will-be-firms-first-ever-turbo-road-car/

Honda UK; Honda powers up Accord range for 2012

Honda in Ireland has introduced a new 180bhp Type S diesel version of the Accord for 2012. The car aims to be an alternative to the BMW and Audi options with a more powerful engine and improved driving feel and plenty of extras as standard for a list price of €39,465 plus delivery charges.

The exterior of the Type S 180PS, with its 18” alloy wheels and aero bumpers and side sills, has a sporty look that reflects the power under the bonnet. The car is equipped with a high beam support system with Bi Xenon head lights and active cornering lights. Standard features include leather seating and electrically adjustable heated front seats. The car has an advanced dual zone climate control linked to the satellite navigation system to detect the position of the sun and set the temperature accordingly. Cabin noise has also been reduced through a new floating sub-frame structure with insulated carpets, all adding to an enriched driving experience.

Type S 180bhp is combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Honda claims that the aim of the engine and transmission development was to maintain the high performance driving experience whilst improving the overall efficiency of the engine resulting in lower running costs. Power output is at 180bhp at 4,000 rpm while peak torque is 380Nm at between 2000 and 2750rpm. That delivers an improved acceleration performance of 8.8 seconds in a 0-100km/hr race and a top speed of 220km/h.

Despite the extra power the CO2 emissions are below Euro 5 levels at 147g/km putting the car into Road Tax Band C with an annual road tax cost of €302. The combined fuel consumption is rated 17.8km/litre (5.6l/100km) so it’s very frugal for a big high performance car.

Source;
http://corkindependent.com/stories/item/4833/2011-40/Honda-powers-up-Accord-range-for-2012

Honda Civic Type R is back

Hot hatch Honda legend is set to return – and the new Civic Type R will have a turbo engine
The next Honda Civic Type R will not only be the fastest version yet – it’s tipped to be Honda’s first-ever turbo road car. And our sources in Japan say tuning expert Mugen is already well underway with development.

The Type R has already achieved cult status in the UK – Europe’s biggest hot hatch market – thanks to its combination of a high-revving naturally aspirated engine and aggressive styling. But in order to meet emissions regulations, this latest model will tweak the formula slightly.

Instead of the previous 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine, it will use a 2.0-litre turbo designed to comply with Euro V emissions regulations. A similar engine will feature in Honda’s 2012 British Touring Car Championship challenger.

Adding a turbo will give more torque lower in the rev range, so a higher gear can be used more often to boost efficiency. Stop-start is also likely to be fitted.

Just as VW hiked power with its latest Golf GTI, so Honda will increase the Type R’s output – but not by much. A figure of 210bhp would allow a 0-62mph time of less than 6.5 seconds and a top speed approaching 150mph.

Based on the new Civic seen at last month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the Type R gets the standard car’s front grille, slim headlights and LED daytime running lights, although most of the bodywork will be uprated.

A front end with large mesh air intakes, a lower chin spoiler and chunky side skirts will boost the visual impact, while a rear diffuser and extended spoiler aim to increase stability at high speeds. Also helping the car’s balance in corners is the standard Civic’s longer, wider chassis; this should also improve ride comfort and grip.

Don’t expect refinement to match a Mercedes S-Class, however. The Type R has always been an extreme proposition and that’s the way it will stay.

The steering is set to be pin sharp, while the six-speed manual box will use a stubby gearlever for snappy changes. Plus, the suspension will be firm, to cope with track work as well as blasting down B-roads.

In a break from tradition that matches the turbocharged Ford Focus ST – a key competitor for the Type R – Honda will offer the car as a five-door only. Prices are expected to start from around £23,000 when it arrives in 2013.

Source;
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/273562/honda_civic_type_r_is_back.html#ixzz1a0cqzBM9

Daydream believers

Honda's Dream Factory has put together a list of 'cultural engineers' - people who embody the Honda philosophy of pushing forward and venturing into the unknown. Photograph: Katelyn Downs Photography/Getty Images/Flickr RF

Set up in honour of the philosophies of the Honda founder, Soichiro Honda, the Dream Factory is all about ­inspiration.

"Mr Honda's beliefs run right through the company that he ­created," explains Steve Kirk, ­Honda's communications manager, and part of the team behind the Dream Factory. "For example, Mr Honda believed that success is 99% failure; in other words, he wanted the people who worked for him to keep trying, not to fear getting something wrong because they would get in trouble with the ­management, but to feel free to dream dreams and try the ­impossible. He said: 'We only have one future, and it will be made of dreams if we have the courage to challenge convention.'"

The Dream Factory is a logical extension of that philosophy, searching out "cultural engineers" who embody the Honda philosophy of pushing forward and venturing into the unknown. "We wanted people who were leaders, who were ­inspirational to others, who also ­celebrate the power of dreams," says Kirk.

Honda put together a panel to search out possible candidates for the Dream Factory, and then brought them all together last spring.

"That was when the fireworks went off. It was really extraordinary to see all these innovators come together and immediately start ­connecting, start thinking of ways in which their work might intersect." For Kirk and his team, the real power of the Dream Factory began with that moment.

The Cultural Engineers
Dr Kevin Fong has been taking science by the scruff of the neck since setting up the Space Medicine module at University College London, aged just 28. Now working as an anaesthetist, Fong brings the wonders of modern technology to a wider audience through TV and radio, recently presenting programmes about NASA, the frontiers of heart surgery and life in the universe.

Benedict Radcliffe loves to turn familiar objects such as cars or trainers inside out so that viewers are not quite sure what they are looking at. Working in collaboration with artists and designers including Ron Arad and Patrick Cox, he recently created a series of bikes that quite literally reinvented the wheel. Agents of Change is a global collective of artists with a graffiti background who produce work based as much on materials and situation as on some artistic masterplan. Innovative techniques and cutting-edge ideas mean their work stays true to its roots.

Mark Stevenson wanted to know "what next?" In search of an answer, he travelled the world and spoke to transhumanists (who plan to live forever), toured a space plane, discovered nanotechnology and had a few thoughts on climate change, overpopulation and resource crisis along the way. The result is his book An Optimist's Tour of the Future.

Chris Wheeler loves making a loud noise – and as artistic director of the Heritage Orchestra (HO), working with conductor Jules Buckley, he's spent the past seven years doing just that. Half band, half orchestra, the HO plays cutting-edge, experimental gigs, but always with a focus on entertainment.

David Hieatt founder of ethical clothing company Howies, wants to put people's ideas together, so he has started by putting people together. The Do Lectures started in 2008, and since then have brought a cocktail of chefs, designers, fishermen, inventors, ecologists, osteopaths, builders and more to Cardigan in Wales for four days of talking, eating and listening. It's an annual event in the US now too; people seem to want to talk.

Kevin Harman likes to create art out of what some might call chaos. He rearranges skips, breaks windows, steals doormats and is often right on the edge of what is acceptable. For him, that's the whole point: how else do you force people to think and look at their own actions without pushing them outside their comfort zone?

Katy Dawe & Oliver Hemsley had been friends for many years, but when Oliver was confined to a wheelchair after an unprovoked and vicious stabbing, they began to work together on Art Against Knives. It's morphed from a one-off show – with work donated by Tracey Emin, Cordelia Parker and many others – to a much longer-term project aiming to engage with young people in troubled areas.

Fabien Riggall aims to bring independent cinema to as many people as possible. He created Future Shorts, a worldwide network for short films which showcases wonderful, brain-addling stuff from countries as far afield as Finland, Romania and Paraguay. His latest project, the Next Generation, is a unique multi-country film festival; viewers will be watching in Austria and Australia, Iceland and Indonesia, Poland and the Philippines, the UK and the USA.

Simon Berry had an extraordinary idea. He knew that Coca-Cola can be bought almost anywhere in the world, and he also knew that in some countries in Africa 20% of children die before reaching the age of five. So why not tap into Coca-Cola's distribution network to deliver vital medicines? Years of work have nearly brought this plan to fruition; Berry continues to push.

VOTE FOR ANOTHER CULTURAL ENGINEER
Honda is on the lookout for another cultural engineer to join its Dream Factory and we are giving you the opportunity to vote for that person from a shortlist of five. Once chosen, all of the engineers will be invited to two Guardian hack days on 19 and 20 November to exchange ideas with the Guardian team. Vote and you could win £250 in Amazon vouchers, plus tickets to the event to see these innovators in action.

Source;
http://www.guardian.co.uk/honda-dream-factory/honda-cultural-engineers-changing-the-world?newsfeed=true

2012 Honda CRV Caught Testing in Europe

We've already brought pictures of prototypes, the concept version and more importantly, the official design patents of the upcoming 2012 Honda CR-V, but our persistent spy photographers just caught up with another test model of the compact SUV in Europe.

While it's only a matter of weeks before we see the final production model in North America as it is due to be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show before hitting showroom floors by the end of the year, European consumers will have to wait another year for the new CR-V to arrive in dealerships.

The European-flavored 2012 CR-V will feature the same styling as the North American version but will be offered with a larger variety of four-cylinder engines including an all-important turbo diesel.

Source;
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2011/09/spied-honda-continues-testing-european.html

Honda opens first UK hydrogen filling station

Awesome!
Honda has opened the first open access refuelling site for hydrogen powered vehicles at it’s manufacturing facility in Swindon. It’s open to anyone developing or using hydrogen powered vehicles, and will fill to 350 and 700 bar, the two standard filling pressures adopted by major manufacturers.

The aim behind the site is to encourage the development of hydrogen powered vehicles, including Honda’s own FCX Clarity. Hydrogen powered vehicles offer the same benefits as electric vehicles but with the advantages of improved range and no slow recharge time.

Thomas Brachmann, Head of Electrical Powertrain R&D at Honda, commented: “Hydrogen fuel cell technology is the ultimate transport solution; meeting environmental demands but also delivering the range and performance that customers expect.

“The cooperation on this project between vehicle manufacturers like Honda, infrastructure providers like BOC and the public sector can be a blueprint for future development.”

Source;
http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/green-motoring/2011-09/honda-opens-first-uk-hydrogen-filling-station/