Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - The Honda Stand At The Frankfurt Motor Show 2011

13.09.2011

IAA 2011

THE HONDA STAND AT THE FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW 2011

Road to Zero Emissions
The launch of the new Honda Civic at Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) 2011 reaffirms Honda's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions. The stand at IAA outlines Honda's environmental direction - �Road to Zero Emissions'.

The integrated coloured tubes on the stand represent and link Honda's environmental technologies. Red marks the area for conventionally (petrol and diesel) driven models. Blue symbolises the Hydrogen-powered Fuel Cell electric vehicles, green represents the battery electric vehicles. The combination of red and green represents Hybrid technology. All the different coloured tubes meet in the Honda Dream House area, in which Honda displays a number of its technologies for environmentally friendly ways to generate energy - demonstrating its wide approach of road to zero emissions.

The concept of the coloured tubes has been created and implemented by the young artist Sebastien Wierinck.

THE NEW HONDA CIVIC
(View the full image gallery here)

Honda announces the new Civic at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show. Developed specifically for the European market, the Civic will be offered exclusively as a five-door hatchback and will compete in the C-segment. It will reach European showrooms in early 2012.

Introduction
The Civic team led by Mitsuru Kariya, the �Large Project Leader' (LPL), were given the task to create and develop the new Civic. With the current Civic being known for its unique exterior styling and interior practicality within the C segment in Europe, Mitsuru Kariya and his team were keen to further understand the needs and desires of the European customers. The current Civic became the benchmark focus for their research to create a car that was even better.

"... when evaluating the requirements of our customers, we recognised that the European customer desires are demanding and unique in many aspects. We have focussed our development on fulfilling these expectations and through this process we have taken our development standards even further to a new level."
(Mitsuru Kariya, LPL)

With the current increase of fuel prices across Europe and the environmental targets set to achieve low emissions, it was concluded from the European customer survey that the current Civic customer not only considers modern styling and performance to be important but also advanced technologies to create a Civic that was even more cost efficient to run and eco-friendly.

The development period for the new Civic spanned over four years. Nearly all of components are new to the Civic or have been further developed with areas of focus on the suspension set-up to improve the ride and handling, the interior materials to improve the overall interior quality, the new design styling and aerodynamics for a refreshed image and improved efficiency, and the engines for improved performance and reduced CO2 emissions.

Overall the new Civic builds on the core strengths of its predecessor and takes them to an appreciably higher level. It also is one of the sector's best in performance against low CO2 emissions - the diesel model produces just 110 g/km with 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque.

Background and Research
The current Civic originally launched in 2006 saw a change in the type of layout approach with the development of a unique platform based on a "centre tank" layout designed to offer practical benefits such as large cabin space meeting the needs of Europe's "C" category customers. The Civic was designed and developed for the European market receiving positive feedback in areas such as design and versatility/practicality which have helped define the current Civic as having �road presence' with its �futuristic looks;' and having a �multi-purpose' function with the large boot space and multiple seat arrangements offered by the �magic seats'.

As research commenced, the development team for the new Civic considered these key milestones achieved with the current Civic and opted to maintain and even look to enhance the current Civic model qualities. The team wanted to create a new emotional design with the ability to surprise and provide the unexpected in terms of roominess and other practical features whilst also improving the visibility and widening the field of vision to enhance the overall ownership experience.

The current Civic had already achieved superior interior space with an unbeatable boot capacity among its competitors. Focus now was on maintaining this class leading interior space whilst improving the overall packaging and space efficiency in the attempt to reduce overall dimensions. This would lead to a new exterior design, improved aerodynamic performance, reducing weight that play a role in raising the car's overall performance envelope.

Focused research was conducted to determine the latest and most important requirements for the European market. European and Japanese designers and engineers worked together closely throughout the development process. Testing was carried out first in Japan and then repeatedly in Europe to ensure suitability for the world's most demanding C-segment customers.

"the car had to be safe and easy to handle, affordable and so on ... premium in terms of having a good balance of affordable performance."
(Mitsuru Kariya, LPL)

The Civic development team turned to drivers, dealers and the media to evaluate the existing Civic and define the essential �must keep' features and qualities, as well as the priorities for the new model. Drivers appreciated the distinct styling and form of the car, with its futuristic looks and practicality. However their feedback suggested that the car's rear design could be more sophisticated and that rear view could be improved. Inside the Civic the modern and user-friendly cockpit design was appreciated, as were the spacious cabin and versatile �magic seats', but users demanded an improvement in the quality of the materials used. Drivers were impressed with the driving experience, but noted that suspension noise could be reduced and ride comfort increased.

Research revealed that the typical Civic driver is attracted to unique, fresh design with sporty performance and advanced technologies. The environment was defined as a high priority, with customers demanding high fuel economy and low emissions.

Concept and development
Initial ideas for the new Civic explored the realm of the car having a �Lean Energetic' design. �Lean' was to emphasize the environmental-conscious world existing today, and �Energetic' to express Honda's vitality. This design direction translated into a �Clean-Dynamic' design concept.

The design team often referred back to their sources of inspiration to help define �Clean- Dynamic', a �blended body' airplane in which fuselage and wings blend into a single body for superior aerodynamic performance, quietness and habitability. Other inspiration was swimwear and track outfits worn by the athletes which provide low resistance.

Initial sketches focused on elegantly flowing designs taken from the �blended body' airplane (a concept model designed by engineers at the University of Cambridge) and low resistance swimwear with no obvious borderlines between surfaces with bumper and fender lines blending seamlessly into the body.

This concept was a clear break in a new direction, rather than relying on sheer strength and engine power to convey a sporty image, a �blended body' with reduced resistance would demonstrate a smarter image for the new Civic.

The team returned to these sources over and over again during the design process, using them as a touchstone when they needed to reaffirm their direction.

Drive trains
The new Civic will be offered with three engine options: a 1.4 l petrol unit, a 1.8 l petrol unit and a 2.2 l diesel unit. All the engines are combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox, ECO Assist, advanced fueling control technology and Idle Stop. They are also equipped with Hill Start Assist. The 1.8 l engine can be paired with a specially designed 5-speed automatic transmission.

The chief goal in 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.

REDUCED CO2 EMISSION OF ONLY 96 G/KM* FOR THE 2012 HONDA INSIGHT

The refreshed Honda Insight is launched at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor show. The Insight is now even more environmentally friendly producing just 96 g/km* of CO2. The Insight also receives a new exterior design including a new front grille. The features within the interior have been improved for a superior perceived quality with two new interior colours to choose from. Rear visibility has been improved and rear passenger headroom has been adjusted. Revisions have been made to the engine and suspension for an overall improvement to ride comfort and stability. Two new exterior colours are available.

96 g/km* CO2 and improved Fuel Economy
The 2012 Insight will be available with either 15" or 16" wheels. In both cases the improvement on CO2 emissions is 5 g/km - which means that models with 15" wheels now boast CO2 emissions of only 96 g/km* and models with 16" wheels 100g/km.

Fuel economy has been improved by means of improved aerodynamics and power train efficiency. Reduced engine friction and CVT efficiency together with improved air-conditioning benefiting from a new cold storage all contribute to a lower fuel consumption.

Exterior
The exterior design receives updates that help to emphasise the Insight's smart image with efficient and aerodynamic styling. The new model year includes a refreshed grille and bumper design and also modifications to the headlights.

The rear has had a similar design treatment applied with a new tail spoiler which helps to improve rear visibility. Details of the license plate garnish have been changed as well as the tail lights, where the indicator surround is blue to highlight its hybrid identity.

Interior
New interior features confirm the improved quality and comfort of the 2012 Insight. These include a new seat fabric and black wood look panelling. The rear space has been redesigned to allow for improved head clearance of 10mm. This has been achieved by adjusting the angle of the rear seat and re-shaping the headlining so that it is curved at the edges.

N/V Improvement
Driver and passenger comfort has been increased by means of reducing the intrusion of engine and road noise from the suspension and tyres into the cabin. The front lower suspension arms are now made from aluminium, rather than steel and also a new tyre development has reduced the noise within the cabin.

Visibility
Refinements to the rear design of the car which include a new slimmed tail spoiler allows for a wider rear glass area, an improved tail gate garnish and the wiper motor unit has been reduced in size meaning overall increased visibility at the rear.

Bespoke Hybrid Model
The Insight utilises the efficient, compact and proven 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine, combined with an electric motor. This engine and motor combination is shared with the new Jazz Hybrid and both models benefit from the ability to run on electric power alone under certain conditions.

The combination of an ultra-aerodynamic body and a parallel hybrid powertrain gives the Insight impressive environmental performance with low overall exhaust emissions, not just CO2 emissions of 96 g/km*. The Insight has been developed to offer excellent fuel economy and emissions all of the time, not just in official tests. The Eco Assist encourages and assists drivers in achieving good fuel economy every day with the coaching function and ECON button.

Recycling of Battery Packs
Importantly the Insight is manufactured in a plant where zero production waste ends up in landfill and a suite of energy saving techniques are used to reduce overall impact. At the end of the vehicle's life the Insight is designed to be highly recyclable and recoverable and the batteries can be easily recycled through any Honda dealer.

*Honda internal data

HONDA EV CONCEPT & PLUG-IN HYBRID PLATFORM, FCX CLARITY

Honda has brought the Honda EV Concept battery electric vehicle and the platform for a midsize plug-in hybrid vehicle to the Frankfurt Motorshow.

The concepts are displayed as part of Honda's "Road to Zero Emissions", showing the current technology of hybrids alongside near future technology of plug-in vehicles and the ultimate goal of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, like the FCX Clarity.

Both vehicles are integral to the Honda Electric Mobility Network, the company's comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions through innovative products, energy-management and energy-production technologies.

The Honda EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling for Honda's upcoming production battery electric vehicle, which will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012. The all-new plug-in hybrid platform showcases Honda's next-generation, two-motor hybrid technology set to debut in 2012.

"Honda's long history with electromotive technologies has enabled us to understand customer requirements," said Takanobu Ito, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President and CEO. "In Honda's view, an electric vehicle must offer great utility and be fun to drive. Honda EV Concept's urban commuting capability will be a perfect addition to the full-function mobility of the plug-in hybrid and FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle."

Honda EV Concept
The Honda EV Concept is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilises the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Honda Jazz. When the Honda EV Concept production model is introduced, it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor.

The high-density motor, derived from the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds. The Honda EV Concept will have a top speed of 144 km/h (90 mph).

The Honda EV Concept will achieve an estimated 160 km (100 mile) driving range per charge using the US EPA LA4* city cycle (112 km when applying EPA's adjustment factor). Driving range can be maximised by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the Honda CR-Z sporty hybrid.

The system allows the driver to select between ECON, NORMAL, and SPORT to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximise efficiency or improve acceleration.

The 3-mode electric drive system uses the same principle as the 3-mode drive system in the CR-Z hybrid, which allows drivers to optimise the vehicle for their preferences or traffic conditions. While in ECON mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17 percent, compared to driving in NORMAL mode, and up to 25 percent compared to driving in SPORT mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in SPORT mode, generating performance similar to a vehicle equipped with a 2.0-litre petrol engine.

In addition to the 3-mode E-Drive system, the Honda EV Concept will include several interactive coaching systems to assist the driver in maximising battery range.

A special meter display advises the driver when to shut off air conditioning and other accessories to conserve battery power.

To help the driver manage the electric vehicle ownership experience, the Honda EV Concept has a standard connectivity system that allows the driver to stay connected through a smartphone and personal computer, or the Honda-exclusive interactive remote, while away from the vehicle. The pocket-friendly, interactive remote provides connectivity to the vehicle without the need for an internet connection or mobile phone signal. Through the connectivity system, drivers will be able to remotely view the vehicle's state of charge, initiate charging and activate the air conditioning, even while connected to the grid, to reduce the drain on the battery at start-up. The mobile application and website also offers the ability to set charging notifications and alerts to optimise utility rates, and provides 24-hour roadside assistance, along with a public charging station locator.

The Honda EV Concept is equipped with a standard Honda Satellite Linked Navigation SystemTM that includes a public charging-station locator capability.

The Honda EV Concept is designed to be easy and convenient to charge. Battery recharging can be accomplished in less than 12 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet, and less than six hours when using a 240-volt outlet.

The Honda EV Concept displayed at Frankfurt features an exclusive Deep Clear Blue Pearl exterior colour and distinctive five-spoke aluminium-alloy wheels with blue inserts. The Concept has unique LED headlights, a chrome front fascia, aerodynamic bumper, clear LED taillights and EV decals. Inside, the Honda EV Concept is outfitted in an eco-friendly grey bio-fabric on the seating surfaces.

Displayed alongside the Honda EV Concept at the show is a prototype Honda charging stand. To begin charging, the driver swipes a card in front of the screen and then connects the charger to the vehicle. The Honda charging stand provides a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that is easy to use and intuitive for consumers.

Honda Plug-in Hybrid
Honda is also showing a plug-in hybrid platform, which showcases Honda's next-generation two-motor hybrid system. Integrated into a mid-size sedan platform, the plug-in hybrid is designed to be compatible with daily driving habits, allowing for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode, while providing long-distance driving capability when needed. The Honda two-motor system continuously moves through three different modes to maximise driving efficiency: all-electric, petrol-electric and a unique, engine direct-drive mode. The plug-in hybrid also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.

In all-electric mode, the vehicle uses a 6kWh lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor. The all-electric mode achieves a range of approximately 16-24 km (10-15 miles) in city driving and a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph). Fully recharging the battery will take 2 to 2.5 hours using a 120-volt outlet and 1 to 1.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet.

The vehicle can also run in a petrol-electric hybrid mode, the platform features a fuel-efficient 2.0-litre, i-VTEC inline 4-cylinder, Atkinson cycle engine, paired with an Electric Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT). An onboard generator adds to the battery powering the electric motor.

For more efficient high-speed cruising, the vehicle can engage in a direct-drive mode, in which only the engine drives the front wheels.

Advanced Technology Demonstration Program
Honda will launch an Advanced Technology Demonstration Program in the USA this year to provide real-world testing of its new vehicles, as well as research into customer behaviour and usability, public charging infrastructure planning and sustainability initiatives. Partners in the program will include Stanford University, City of Torrance, California and Google, Inc.

Honda Electric Mobility Network and Energy Management
Together, the Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, the Honda EV Concept and the future plug-in hybrid vehicle, are a part of the company's comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions. Honda is unique in its efforts to create both environmentally-responsible products and the renewable energy solutions to power them. Honda is currently producing and marketing thin-film solar panels in Japan, and an installation has recently been completed at three sites including the Honda Akademie in Erlensee, Germany, the Honda UK Manufacturing plant in Swindon, UK and the Honda Nordic head office in Malm�, Sweden.

Honda is also using innovative ways to produce and distribute energy through sustainable methods, such as using solar power to produce hydrogen fuel from water. Additionally, Honda is developing home energy-management systems that utilise micro-cogeneration technology and solar cell modules to power and heat homes as well as charge electric vehicles. The Honda Electric Mobility Network joins clean vehicle technology, renewable energy production and energy management solutions for the benefit of customers and society.

FCX Clarity
The FCX Clarity is displayed alongside the two concept vehicles demonstrating its position as the ultimate solution to zero emissions mobility. The world's first production fuel cell electric vehicle has been available to lease in the US and Japan since 2008, and has been delivered to customers including, actress, Jamie Lee Curtis and ice hockey player, Scott Niedermayer.

The FCX Clarity is fundamentally an electric vehicle, with a hydrogen fuel cell stack providing the electricity from a reaction between hydrogen and atmospheric oxygen. This reaction has only one emission, utterly pure water (H2O) in the form of vapour. The FCX Clarity can be refuelled from empty to full in less than four minutes, just like a fossil fuel car, and has a range of 460 km (288 miles). The FCX Clarity has ample space for four full-size adults plus luggage and combines this with a whisper quiet, 160 km/h (100 mph) top speed. Honda's fuel cell electric vehicle shows that a vehicle with no harmful emissions can be practical, comfortable and fun to drive.

Since 2009 the FCX Clarity has been around Europe to demonstrate the potential of fuel cell electric technology to politicians, key decision makers and infrastructure projects. The FCX Clarity appeared at COP 15, United Nations Climate Change Conference, the European Youth Parliament and the World Hydrogen Energy Conference in Essen amongst others. In May 2011 Honda joined the Clean Energy Partnership, Europe's leading fuel cell vehicle and hydrogen infrastructure demonstration project.

For further details, specifications, video and high-resolution photos, please visit www.hondazeroemissions.eu

Honda Environmental Leadership
The Honda EV Concept and a plug-in hybrid sedan will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012, joining Honda's diverse line-up of environmentally-responsible vehicles, which include the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, the Civic GX compressed natural gas-powered sedan (U.S. only) and four distinct petrol-electric hybrid models: Civic Hybrid (US only); CR-Z sporty hybrid; Insight hybrid and Jazz Hybrid (Japan and Europe only).

*The EPA LA4 test mode is the standard US government testing mode for electric vehicles and what most automakers use for comparison purposes. Calculations under New European Drive Cycle conditions are not currently available.

HONDA ACCORD

The revised Honda Accord sedan and Tourer models made their debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March this year. Both cars receive a host of changes with the styling, emissions, ride and handling all enhanced for 2011.

Summary of Changes:

Revised exterior styling
Detail changes to interior finishes
Improvements to emissions and economy on all engines
138 g/km 2.2 i-DTEC introduced
Ride and handling improvements for all models
Auto High-Beam Support System and Active Cornering Lights debut on Accord
180 PS Type S model now available across Europe with bespoke interior and exterior styling.

Exterior Design
Both the sedan and Tourer have benefitted from small but noticeable changes to the head lights and bumpers to complement the changes under the skin. The head lights have been given a cleaner, crisper appearance with the previously amber indicators now in a clear finish. On top grade cars the lights are now Bi-HID (xenon high and low beam) and feature Active Cornering Lights to improve night time visibility. The grille has been subtly remodelled with the two central spars finished in the same chrome material as the outer grille, for a sportier look. The cooling duct and fog light recesses on all models have been re-profiled with the taper of these areas given a more aggressive line, giving the car a more planted appearance.

The rear of the sedan model has been subtly enhanced with the rear lights having a light red finish for the reversing light and indicators to match that of the fog light, giving a balance to the rear styling. The exclusive styling of the sedan is rounded off with a light chrome garnish above the rear licence plate on most models and a dark chrome finish on Type S grade cars. The new exterior design cues are finished off with three new colours consisting of Alabaster Silver, Graphite Lustre and Celestial Blue Pearl added to the line up.

Interior Design
The exterior styling changes have been complemented by a number of subtle changes to the interior with most grades having new seat materials and door linings, changing the ambience of the cabin. Type S models have exclusive half leather, seats in a dark grey finish and a black head lining to further distinguish the top grade.

The metal-look finish interior trim that covers the hand brake, gear lever surround, steering wheel garnish, door inlays, with a red background and sweeps up across the centre of the dash is now in a darker hue, to complement the new interior fabrics. The footwells of the majority of models are now illuminated blue if the headlights are on and red on Type S models.

Fuel Economy and Emission Improvements
The refined 2.2 litre 150 PS i-DTEC diesel engine has had internal frictional losses reduced to improve fuel economy and emissions. The result of these changes is an 9 g/km drop in CO2 emissions for the sedan with the 6-speed manual transmission and an 11 g/km reduction for the automatic variant. These internal changes have been combined with a host of underbody aerodynamic aids, including a larger front air dam, underfloor and a rear subframe cover Honda's engineers have also put effort into reducing the frictional losses in the wheels and tyres with low friction wheel bearings and reduced rolling resistance tyres. Accords equipped with Automatic transmission have also benefitted from minimised frictional losses in the gearbox and optimised ratios to improve economy and emissions.

Quieter Cabin
The already impressive NVH performance of the current Accord has been further improved with the adoption of higher density foam in the under bonnet and dashboard areas. The underfloor noise insulation has also been revised and teamed with additional sound deadening shields on the DPF and exhaust manifold cover of the diesel engine. The suite of noise reductions techniques is completed with a 0.9 mm increase in the thickness of the rear window glass, improving the rear passenger experience.

Chassis
Engineers from Japan worked with their counterparts in Germany and the UK to further refine the dampers of the Accord Tourer and sedan for the vast range of road conditions found in Europe. Detailed refinement of the dual mode dampers has given improvement in both high speed stability for highway driving and a significant improvement in ride quality, even over poor road surfaces.

Active Cornering Lights
One of the most visible changes to the top of the range Accords is the addition of Active Cornering Lights, which provide enhanced illumination when the vehicle is turning. Additional lights units have been subtly integrated into the existing lights units, casting all of their light to the side of the vehicle to help the driver in low visibility conditions. The light unit on the relevant side will be illuminated when the driver activates the indicators in that direction or turns the steering wheel more than 90 degrees. When the vehicle is in reverse, both lights will be activated to give a good view to either side of the driver.

High-Beam Support System
Another new lighting technology for Honda is the High Beam Support system, which is fitted on vehicles with the Bi-HID (xenon high and low beam) headlights. This system is controlled by a CMOS camera fitted to the windscreen in the area of the driver rear view mirror. The camera detects oncoming headlights or the taillights of a vehicle in front and automatically dips the headlights onto their normal setting if they are on high-beam. This allows the driver to fully concentrate on the road conditions, without having to manually control the high-beam setting.

HONDA JAZZ WITH CVT GEARBOX

This year's Geneva Motor Show was the European motor show debut of the revised Honda Jazz and marks the return of a CVT automatic transmission to the endlessly flexible B-segment hatchback.

CVT Automatic Transmission
When Honda's engineers set about revising the popular Jazz model, one of the priorities was to give Jazz customers an automatic transmission that would not impact on fuel economy or CO2 emissions. The solution they came up with was to combine a Continuously Variable Transmission, similar to that seen in the first Jazz, with a torque converter unit. The torque converter replaced the start clutch arrangement of the previous CVT unit, giving improved parking speed drivability and better highway fuel economy.

It meant customers could benefit from the smooth, low stress driving experience of an automatic, without compromising its environmental performance.

Exterior Design
The exterior of the Jazz has been given a makeover with the front lights given a subtly different shape, which are complemented by a new matt black mesh grille in between.

The front bumper has also been re-profiled to enhance aerodynamics and appearance. At the rear of the car the lights now have red sections at the top and bottom, with the centre section remaining white.

Interior Design
The interior has seen a total change of dashboard colour, with a much darker plastic now used, giving a completely different ambience to the cabin. Chrome rings have been added to the climate control display and air vents, to contrast with the new dashboard. The seat fabrics have been given a new blue and black pattern to compliment the new surfaces of the dashboard areas. All illuminated areas of the dash are now lit in a soft amber colour, unified across all instruments and complimenting the new interior materials.

Magic Seats
The interior retains the legendary practicality which is made possible by the unique central fuel tank layout of the Jazz.

The Jazz's Magic Seats are a key feature of the interior, with the ability to drive down into the floor of the vehicle, giving a completely flat load bay, with a very low floor. Alternatively, the bases can be flipped up through 90 degrees to give a tall load space from the floor to the ceiling for carrying a huge variety of items, from bicycles to pot plants. The rear seats can now recline a few degrees, to allow rear seat passengers the possibility to adjust the seat pitch to their liking.

Chassis
Detail revisions to suspension and steering settings have yielded significant improvements in both ride and handling for the new Jazz. Engineering teams in Germany and the UK, where a significant percentage of Jazz models sold in Europe are produced, spent time refining the already impressive chassis on a variety of roads. To allow drivers to enjoy the improvements, the engineers increased the torque around the centre position of the steering wheel, to give the driver more feeling.

HONDA JAZZ HYBRID - LOW EMISSIONS AND PRACTICALITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE

The Jazz Hybrid went on sale in March 2011 in many markets and was shown in full production specification at the Geneva Motor Show this year further demonstrating Honda's continuing commitment to petrol-electric hybrid technology.

The launch of the latest addition to the practical Jazz line-up marks the first time a parallel hybrid vehicle has been available to B-segment consumers. Importantly the Jazz Hybrid will not lose any of its practicality, with the compact nature of the Honda IMA system allowing the B-segment car to retain its ultra-flexible "Magic Seats" and 300 litres of boot space.

Magic Seats
The IMA battery pack and power control unit have been integrated in the area under the boot floor, retaining the normal boot area 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 1320 litre of space or the seat bases can be folded up to sit vertically, so as to accommodate tall items within the car.

The IMA hybrid system is 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 over 10 years of sales behind it, the Honda IMA system has proven itself to be a flexible and dependable system, with over half a million vehicles on the road benefitting from its combination of low emissions and fuel economy.

Engine
The new model features the same IMA system as in the Insight hybrid, using the same 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine as its dedicated hybrid model sibling. The IMA system is combined with a CVT gearbox in the Jazz and with emissions of just 104 g/km of CO2 it has the lowest CO2 output of any automatic car in the B-segment. As a petrol-electric hybrid, the new derivative has ultra-low levels of other exhaust emissions, not just taxable elements.

Exterior Design
Visually the Jazz Hybrid is distinguished from the current Jazz range with revised headlights, which have a blue surround, clear rear lights, new front grille, restyled bumpers and a chrome tailgate garnish.

The new hybrid will be is available in a range of existing colours plus a bespoke Lime Green metallic.

Interior Design
Inside the cabin is given a fresh look with a darker single colour dashboard, which contrasts strongly with the blue lighting of the dials and centre console. The hybrid model, like the petrol range, is also available with leather trim. The dashboard integrates a version of the Eco Assist function, which uses the ambient lighting of the speedometer to advise the driver on how their driving style is impacting on their fuel economy. The Eco Assist function aides drivers in getting the maximum economy from their car in everyday situations and gives users real-time feedback on how their use of the brakes and throttle affects their fuel bills and environmental impact.

Accessories
While respecting the unique features of the car, a range of Genuine Accessories will accentuate its hybrid character even further. Decoration items, such as doorstep garnishes, a variety of exterior and interior stickers, B-pillar garnishes and alloy wheels can be fitted according to the driver's personal taste. A Solid State Drive navigation, hands-free Bluetooth� and rear entertainment system are set to provide extra technological comfort. A complete range of Genuine Accessories is available for those customers that want to add in even more functionality and style.

HONDA CR-Z - THE WORLD'S FIRST 6-SPEED MANUAL SPORTY HYBRID

The world's first 6-speed manual hybrid coupe, the Honda CR-Z is gracing the stand at the Frankfurt Motorshow 2011. In its first year of sales the car has smashed sales predictions in Japan and starred in the Live Every Litre social media activated documentary around Europe.

With CO2 emissions of just 117 g/km and fuel economy of 5.0 l/100km, the CR-Z shows being green doesn't mean sacrificing being sporty.

The one-motion wedge coupe offers something unique to motorists who are looking for a lower emission, or hybrid vehicle. The combination of 2+2 coupe styling, with a 1.5 litre IMA enhanced engine and a manual gearbox has changed perceptions of hybrid vehicles.

The overall power output of the engine and IMA system is 124 PS and a healthy 174 Nm of torque.

The peak torque figure is identical to that of a 1.8-litre Civic and arrives at just 1500 rpm, a level where previously only turbocharged engines deliver their maximum. Even with torque levels directly comparable with a Civic, the CR-Z emits 35 g/km** less CO2 than its conventionally powered cousin. Other harmful exhaust emissions are also very low and the Nickel Metal Hydride battery pack can be recycled through Honda dealers, at the end of the vehicle's life.

**Based on EU combined figure for both vehicles

A CR-Z Genuine Accessories range has been developed in four themes to enable Honda's dealers and customers to easily identify their individual requirements. The Carbon theme includes floor carpets and door-step garnishes, interior panels, body skirts and a 17" alloy wheel. The Metallic theme covers a front sports grille, door mirror covers, air-intake garnishes, pillar decorations and speaker rings. The Illumination theme gives a cool, blue luminescence to the interior of the CR-Z, while the Coloured theme offers tailgate garnishes and body styling graphics. The CR-Z Genuine Accessories range offers customers a wide variety of options to individualise and enhance their vehicle.

More details can be found at ">www.hondasportyhybrid.com

HONDA CR-V

Joining the Accord in the petrol/diesel area of the Frankfurt Motor Show stand is the CR-V equipped with the Euro NCAP award-winning Collision Mitigation Brake System, the Honda-developed autonomous emergency braking system.

The CR-V was revised at the beginning of 2010 with changes to the suspension, styling, interior and specification. With these enhancements building on an already strong base, the CR-V has continued where its predecessor left off, with strong sales across Europe.

i-DTEC
The introduction of the i-DTEC engine and the option of a diesel automatic version has proven popular with customers wanting a combination of fuel economy and superb ease of use.