Honda will use Hydrogen

Honda Motor Co. (NYSE: HMC) won't be lining up to produce electric-powered automobiles any time soon. That is, the Japanese automaker is running after hydrogen fuel-cell technology instead of battery-powered electric propulsion technology, which is the mainstay of current hybrid vehicles and upcoming all-electric vehicles.

Honda's fuel-cell development chief, Takashi Moriya, said that "Fuel-cell cars will become necessary ... we're positioning it as the ultimate zero-emission car." Why is Honda pursuing fuel-cell technology instead of electric motor technology? Does Honda believe battery technology won't ever satisfy the ever-growing demand for completely gasoline-free engine designs in the next decade? Possibly. Right now, a major drawback to electric vehicles is battery longevity and cost.

AutoPacific's Ed Kim indicated that "Honda has a propensity to think very long term" -- and he's mostly right. Honda believes in this more than the current hype over electric cars, and they tend to stick with a decision they really believe is correct, according to Kim.

Honda FCX Clarity - Hydrogen Powered Car If you live in California and can spare $600 per month, you can drive the FCX zero emission car Look - no exhaust pipe! Just a vertical gas flow cell structure The styling of the car is fairly restrained, optimised for aerodynamic efficiency

Honda reveals hydrogen-powered sports car concept

Currently producing only one single sporting product, the engineers at Honda are obviously eager to infuse just about everything in their model lineup with a degree of sporting character. From the tenacious Honda Civic Si to the new, more powerful Acura TL, they've taken a page from Ford's old "Total Performance" book by placing a high priority on vehicle dynamics across the line.

And that includes taking the same approach in even the most unexpected direction. Surprising the masses at the LA Auto Show, the FC Sport concept showcases what Honda's performance engineers can do to the hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity sedan's powertrain.

"The Honda FC Sport explores how to satisfy automotive performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petroleum," said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "People who love sports cars will still have a reason to love in a hydrogen-powered future."

A unique three-seater layout, last utilized in the iconic McLaren F1, reportedly facilitates the use of a modular hydrogen fuel cell powertrain, allowing a lower centre of gravity and superior aerodynamics. Packaging the majority of the hydrogen and electrical systems between the axles helps maintain a balanced weight distribution, however, the placement of the FC Sport-specific high output hydrogen fuel stack between the rear seats has certain crash standard technicians scratching their heads as to the concept's viability as a production model.

From the rear view a pair of fuel storage tanks is visible from above, while the uniquely styled front end hides the electric drive motors. And no, you won't be turning any wrenches on this little pocket rocket in your own garage.

Aerodynamically, the FC Sport borrows heavily from the lessons learned by Honda's resident F1 team (and painful lessons they've been). Barge boards split the air ahead of the front wheels, while a series of hex forms at the vehicle's rear house the radiators, keeping the powertrain within operating temperatures. And whilst Honda claims the Glacier White paint "conveys the FC Sport's clean environmental aspirations while the dark wheels and deeply tinted glass provide a symbolic contrast befitting of the vehicle's unique combination of clean power and high performance," we can't help but wonder if it wasn't chosen simply because it looks cool.

In either case, Honda's press materials include a few citations of the word "supercar," which leads to some very interesting questions. Completely devoid of specifications, there's no speculation on the vehicle's performance figures, and whilst the canopied cockpit, strange seating layout, and completely NHTSA-unfriendly bodywork may have many critics screaming "crazy concept," there may be a grain of truth in Honda's desire to produce a viable hydrogen-powered sports coupe.

Release from Honda

The FC Sport emphasizes the design flexibility and potential of Honda’s V Flow fuel cell technology – already deployed in the Honda FCX Clarity sedan – and reconfigures it into a lightweight sports car design with an ultra-low center of gravity, powerful electric motor performance and zero-emissions.

The design study concept is inspired by supercar levels of performance through low weight and a high-performance, electrically driven fuel cell powertrain.

“The Honda FC Sport explores how to satisfy automotive performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petroleum,” said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “People who love sports cars will still have a reason to love in a hydrogen-powered future.”

The high-output Honda fuel cell powertrain and a sleek, aerodynamic body contribute to the vehicle’s performance potential. A modular approach to fuel cell component packaging and the electric drivetrain contribute to the FC Sport’s low center of gravity with the majority of vehicle mass distributed between the axles, creating the balanced weight distribution sought after in sports cars.

Honda Civic Type R MUGEN EURO Version

Following media speculation, MUGEN EURO Co., Ltd has confirmed the development of a highly-tuned Honda Civic Type R 'MUGEN' concept prototype road car, using the same powertrain as the Civic MUGEN RR saloon launched in 2007 in Japan.

The car is being developed in Japan by MUGEN EURO - the Northampton-based subsidiary of Honda's long standing tuning partner MUGEN - and will be brought to the UK for testing later in the year. At this stage, the car is being prepared purely as a prototype model.

To enhance the performance of the already-impressive Civic Type R, MUGEN EURO will tune Honda's 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine to produce more power and torque, as well as developing the brakes, exhaust and suspension. Externally, the Civic will take on an even more aggressive appearance, with a new aerodynamic package including a larger rear boot spoiler.

"In standard trim, the Civic Type R is a thrilling machine to drive," said Hiro Toyoda, Vice President of MUGEN EURO. "It is a fantastic base model from which we hope to develop one of the quickest point to point front-wheel-drive road cars in the country."

There are currently no plans for a production model.

2010 Honda CR Z Hybrid Announced

Honda's new CEO, Takanobu Ito has today announced plans to begin sales of the Honda CR-Z sports hybrid model in Japan in February 2010. The start date for UK sales of the new hybrid coupe will be released towards the end of 2009.

By combining this new model with the current Insight and Civic Hybrid, Honda will further enhance its line-up of compact hybrid models, powered by Honda’s compact, lightweight, and efficient Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system. The IMA system will also be introduced into the award-winning Honda Jazz within the next few years. In addition, Honda is currently developing a new hybrid system which is intended to be suitable for installation in mid-to-large vehicles.

Honda also announced that another production line at its Suzuka Factory, is now producing Insight, leveraging Honda’s flexible production system. This extra capacity on line No. 3 has been opened up to cope with the high level of demand in Japan where the new Insight has exceeded all expectations.

Ito succeeds Takeo Fukui as CEO of Honda, having been President of Honda’s R&D operation previously. Like his predecessor, Ito has a background as an engineer and was instrumental in bringing the revolutionary NSX from concept to reality. Ito was in charge of one of the most challenging development areas as the Project Leader for the NSX’s ground breaking aluminium unibody construction.

To continue contributing to the global effort to reduce CO2 emissions, Honda will remain focussed on research and development of technologies that improve fuel-efficiency and will strive to deliver products with improved environmental performance to as many customers as possible.

The Honda CR-Z concept car made its world debut at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in 2007. The Honda CR-Z sporty hybrid will feature advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all, while reducing the car‘s environmental footprint.

2010 Honda Odyssey - Photo, Detail, Specs

The 2010 Honda Odyssey continues to stand apart from the minivan crowd with a reputation built on innovation, quality and engineering excellence. The Odyssey’s alignment of features like an engaging-to-drive character, a 3rd-Row Magic Seat®, a premium appearance and efficient engine performance combine to offer a sophisticated transportation environment with room for up to eight people (seven on LX models). The available 244-horsepower V-6 engine achieves an EPA highway fuel-economy rating1 of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) on models equipped with Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®), a system that can deactivate up to half of the engine’s cylinders when less power is needed. Available premium features include a leather-trimmed interior, Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System, DVD rear entertainment system, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™, a backup camera, power side-doors, power tailgate and much more.

“A minivan is tough to beat when it comes to carting your kids around or to moving the maximum number of people in maximum comfort and efficiency,” said Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president of Product Planning for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Beyond the superior functionality inherent to a minivan, the Odyssey offers customers convenient seating versatility, a high-quality feel and a reputation for surprisingly engaging driving dynamics.”

With its One-Motion 60/40 Split 3rd-Row Magic Seat®, the Odyssey’s seating areas can quickly and easily adapt between passenger and cargo duties. The 3rd-Row Magic Seat can accommodate up to three passengers and still provide 38.4 cu-ft. of cargo volume behind the seats, or fold completely flat into the floor to create 91.1 cu-ft. of cargo volume while still maintaining room for five passengers (four passengers on LX). With the second-row seats removed, total cargo volume expands to 147.4 cu-ft. Total interior volume measures 209.8 cu-ft. for passenger and cargo volume combined. The unique 2nd-Row PlusOne Seat™ on the Odyssey EX, EX-L and Touring integrates a storage bin inside the seat structure and is also removable to create a walk-through to the third row.

The Odyssey achieves the highest crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, five stars, for both frontal and side impacts2.

All Odyssey models are equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), commonly referenced as electronic stability control; standard anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and Brake Assist; advanced dual-stage, dual-threshold driver’s and front passenger’s SRS front airbags; front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); three-row side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor; active front seat head restraints; daytime running lights and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure provides enhanced occupant protection in a frontal collision.

Designed with families in mind, a total of three Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) child seat attachment systems are available. Two are located in the outboard second-row seating positions and one is located in the middle third-row seating position.

The 3.5-liter, all-aluminum, SOHC VTEC® engine on the Odyssey LX and EX produces 244 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 240 lb-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm. The Odyssey LX and EX models achieve an EPA-rated city/highway fuel economy of 16/23 mpg1 . A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment.

The Odyssey EX-L and Touring models feature a 3.5-liter, all-aluminum, SOHC i-VTEC® V-6 engine with VCM for enhanced fuel efficiency. This engine produces 244 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 245 lb-ft. of torque at 4,900 rpm while achieving an EPA-rated city/highway fuel economy of 17/25 mpg1 . This VCM engine is programmed to run on 3, 4 or 6 cylinders, based on current power requirements. Powered by the intelligence of i-VTEC technology, VCM quickly and seamlessly activates or deactivates 2 or 3 cylinders by closing each cylinder’s intake and exhaust valves at the same time. The system provides V-6 power when accelerating or climbing, as well as the fuel efficiency of a smaller engine while cruising.

An independent front and rear suspension and a rigid unit-body structure help provide comfortable and refined handling performance. Additional chassis components include power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes and variable power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L models have 16-inch wheels (alloy on EX and above) with all-season 235/65R16 tires. Odyssey Touring models are equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels and all-season 235/60R17 tires.

The Odyssey is available in four model choices (LX, EX, EX-L and Touring). Standard comfort and convenience features on the Odyssey LX include a front and rear air conditioning system with an air-filtration system, keyless entry, tilt and telescopic steering column, cruise control, power windows with auto-up/down driver’s and passenger’s window, power door and tailgate locks, AM/FM/CD stereo system with 4-speakers and auxiliary audio input jack, heat-rejecting glass and more.

The Odyssey EX adds a tri-zone automatic climate control system, an 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, power sliding doors, 2nd-Row PlusOne Seat™ with storage bin, 6-disc in-dash CD changer with 6-speakers, security system, body colored side mirrors and door handles, alloy wheels, roof rails, auto-off headlights, fog lights, exterior temperature indicator, HomeLink® remote system and more. Newly available on the Odyssey EX for 2010 is the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with 9-inch screen, which also adds a 115-volt power outlet.

The Odyssey EX-L adds leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, power tailgate, 4-way power front-passenger’s seat, XM Radio®3, power moonroof, automatic-dimming rearview mirror with a 2.5-inch rearview camera display (EX-L-exclusive). Available on the Odyssey EX-L is the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with 9-inch screen, which also adds a 115-volt power outlet. Available on the Odyssey EX-L equipped with the DVD rear entertainment system is the Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System with voice recognition and rearview camera (navi screen rearview camera display replaces rearview mirror display). Navigation-equipped models also include Bluetooth HandsFreeLink.

The Odyssey Touring includes all of the features from the Odyssey EX-L with the DVD rear entertainment system and the Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System as standard equipment plus the Premium Audio System with 7-speakers including subwoofer, a programmable multi-information display with trip computer, a two-position memory power driver’s seat, power adjustable pedals, premium alloy wheels, corner and backup sensors, auto on/off headlights and a compass.

The Odyssey has won numerous awards and critical acclaim including the Kelley Blue Book award as one of the 10 “Best New Family Vehicles of 2009,” and “2009 Best Resale Value Award” in the van category, which honors vehicles that are expected to have the best resale value after five years of ownership.

Colors for 2010 include Alabaster Silver (replaces Silver Pearl Metallic), Crystal Black Pearl (replaces Nighthawk Black Pearl), Polished Metal Metallic (replaces Sterling Gray Metallic), Slate Green Metallic, Bali Blue Pearl, Dark Cherry Pearl, Ocean Mist Metallic, Mocha Beige Metallic and Taffeta White. Interior color choices, determined by exterior color, include ivory, olive, black or gray.

The Odyssey is produced from domestic and globally sourced parts by Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC in Lincoln, Alabama.

2010 Honda Odyssey Basic Specs:

Engine: 3.5-liter VTEC V-6 (LX, EX), 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 (EX-L, Touring)
Horsepower: 244-hp@5,750 rpm (LX, EX), 244-hp@5,700 rpm (EX-L, Touring)
Torque: 240 lb-ft.@5,000 rpm (LX, EX), 245 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (EX-L, Touring)
EPA-estimated Fuel Economy, City/Hwy/Comb.: 16/23/18 (LX, EX), 17/25/20 (EX-L, Touring)
Seating Capacity: 7(LX), 8 (EX, EX-L, Touring)
Passenger Volume: 171.4 cu-ft. (LX, EX), 168.3 cu-ft. (EX-L, Touring)
Cargo Volume: 34.7 cu-ft.
Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs.4
Standard Airbags: Driver’s and Front-Passenger’s Dual-stage, Dual-Threshold Front Airbags; Front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and Side-curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®)
Standard Anti-lock Braking System: 4-channel with Brake Assist

2010 Honda Insight

The new 2010 2010 Honda Odyssey is also comfortable to drive, the driver's seat on the this model comes standard with an 8-way power seat adjustment, and the Honda Odyssey LX model has manual height adjustment for the driver's seat. Also meeting stringent Low Emission Vehicle standards. The front and rear air-conditioning is standard on both new Honda van models, the EX models include an automatic climate control system. Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 240-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The 2010 2010 Odyssey is a carryover from 2003. There is also a lot of space in The 2010 Honda Odyssey vans. The 3rd row bench-seat is retractable into the floor, the hinge mechanism of the seat allows it to lie completely flat, allowing cargo to be stacked more easily.