Honda Plans new Hybrid and V6 diesel engines
05-17-06, 12:25 PM
#1
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Honda Plans new Hybrid and V6 diesel engines
Honda Plans new Hybrid
Pricing to be below Civic Hybrid, 100,000 yearly sales expected
By JAMES B. TREECE | AUTOMOTIVE NEWS
AutoWeek | Published 05/17/06, 8:28 am et
Pricing to be below Civic Hybrid, 100,000 yearly sales expected
By JAMES B. TREECE | AUTOMOTIVE NEWS
AutoWeek | Published 05/17/06, 8:28 am et
TOKYO -- Honda Motor Co. will add a dedicated hybrid vehicle to its Honda-brand lineup in 2009.
The vehicle will be "suitable for family use" and will be priced below the current Civic Hybrid, says Honda CEO Takeo Fukui.
Fukui outlined plans for the new hybrid model as well as for the sale of diesel-powered cars in North America and Japan during a press conference on Wednesday.
He also said Honda plans new vehicle plants in the United States and Japan, a new engine plant in Canada, and a speed-up in its expansion in India.
Fukui said the new hybrid model will be built at Honda's Suzuka, Japan, plant. Honda aims for worldwide sales of about 200,000, including 100,000 in North America.
400,000 hybrids/year
Honda expects to reach those sales volumes "within about two years after sales start," Fukui says. Together with Honda's other hybrid-powered nameplates, the carmaker's hybrid sales then will total almost 300,000 worldwide, he says.
The new hybrid will be sold only as a Honda, says Koichi Kondo, Honda's senior managing director and COO for North American operations. There will not be an Acura version.
Even though half of the new hybrid's sales will be in North America, Honda did not consider building it there, Kondo says. "But we may have to in the future," he adds.
Honda also is developing a cleaner, next-generation version of its 4-cylinder diesel engine. That engine has been sold in Europe since 2004. The new engine will be on the market within the next three years.
Fukui says the engine will be sold in the United States and Japan as well as Europe.
The new diesel aims to meet stringent pending regulations in Europe and Canada that effectively require NOx emissions equivalent to those of a gasoline engine.
Dual diesels
Honda also is developing a clean V-6 diesel engine. That will be an all-new engine not based on the current 4-cylinder diesel.
The new diesels are not planned specifically for either the Honda or Acura brand, and could go in either brand's vehicles, Kondo says.
Fukui repeated his view that hybrid powertrains are most appropriate for small cars, and clean diesels for medium- and large-size cars.
The hybrid models and the diesel-powered cars are part of Honda's goal of reducing the carbon dioxide emissions of its fleet.
In 2000 on a global basis, Honda cars and trucks averaged 179.5 grams of CO2 exhaust emissions per kilometer traveled, or about 11.6 ounces per mile. Despite increased sales of larger-sized vehicles such as SUVs and minivans, Honda reduced its average CO2 emissions by 5 percent during the five-year period up to 2005.
Honda now targets a further reduction of 5 percent or more. It thus aims to achieve a total reduction of 10 percent by 2010 compared to the 2000 level.
The vehicle will be "suitable for family use" and will be priced below the current Civic Hybrid, says Honda CEO Takeo Fukui.
Fukui outlined plans for the new hybrid model as well as for the sale of diesel-powered cars in North America and Japan during a press conference on Wednesday.
He also said Honda plans new vehicle plants in the United States and Japan, a new engine plant in Canada, and a speed-up in its expansion in India.
Fukui said the new hybrid model will be built at Honda's Suzuka, Japan, plant. Honda aims for worldwide sales of about 200,000, including 100,000 in North America.
400,000 hybrids/year
Honda expects to reach those sales volumes "within about two years after sales start," Fukui says. Together with Honda's other hybrid-powered nameplates, the carmaker's hybrid sales then will total almost 300,000 worldwide, he says.
The new hybrid will be sold only as a Honda, says Koichi Kondo, Honda's senior managing director and COO for North American operations. There will not be an Acura version.
Even though half of the new hybrid's sales will be in North America, Honda did not consider building it there, Kondo says. "But we may have to in the future," he adds.
Honda also is developing a cleaner, next-generation version of its 4-cylinder diesel engine. That engine has been sold in Europe since 2004. The new engine will be on the market within the next three years.
Fukui says the engine will be sold in the United States and Japan as well as Europe.
The new diesel aims to meet stringent pending regulations in Europe and Canada that effectively require NOx emissions equivalent to those of a gasoline engine.
Dual diesels
Honda also is developing a clean V-6 diesel engine. That will be an all-new engine not based on the current 4-cylinder diesel.
The new diesels are not planned specifically for either the Honda or Acura brand, and could go in either brand's vehicles, Kondo says.
Fukui repeated his view that hybrid powertrains are most appropriate for small cars, and clean diesels for medium- and large-size cars.
The hybrid models and the diesel-powered cars are part of Honda's goal of reducing the carbon dioxide emissions of its fleet.
In 2000 on a global basis, Honda cars and trucks averaged 179.5 grams of CO2 exhaust emissions per kilometer traveled, or about 11.6 ounces per mile. Despite increased sales of larger-sized vehicles such as SUVs and minivans, Honda reduced its average CO2 emissions by 5 percent during the five-year period up to 2005.
Honda now targets a further reduction of 5 percent or more. It thus aims to achieve a total reduction of 10 percent by 2010 compared to the 2000 level.
05-17-06, 03:44 PM
#2
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Posts: n/a
Fukui repeated his view that hybrid powertrains are most appropriate for small cars, and clean diesels for medium- and large-size cars.
This is the approach the Germans take, offering diesals in their large cars. Though Honda really doesn't have a large car.
Clearly Lexus thinks otherwise with the 450h and 600hL.
We'll see. Honda doing both is a good thing
This is the approach the Germans take, offering diesals in their large cars. Though Honda really doesn't have a large car.
Clearly Lexus thinks otherwise with the 450h and 600hL.
We'll see. Honda doing both is a good thing
05-17-06, 04:03 PM
#3
Lexus Fanatic
Toyota needs to catch on to this V6 diesel game quickly. That engine in the E320 CDI is an amazing combination of both power and efficiency--without the complexity of a hybrid.
05-18-06, 04:02 AM
#4
Originally Posted by XeroK00L
Toyota needs to catch on to this V6 diesel game quickly. That engine in the E320 CDI is an amazing combination of both power and efficiency--without the complexity of a hybrid.
As to the E320CDI it costs as much as GS450h, a bit more with same options actually...
05-18-06, 10:34 AM
#6
Super Moderator
Summary of 2006 Mid-Year Speech by President and Chief Executive Officer
Summary of 2006 Mid-Year Speech by Takeo Fukui, President and Chief Executive Officer, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Torrance, Calif. May 17, 2006; Accelerate our effort to strengthen the core characteristics that make Honda unique to accomplish further growth
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced specific plans and initiatives in the following three areas, which will enable Honda to accelerate its efforts to strengthen Honda "at the spot," strengthen the core characteristics that make Honda unique, and achieve further growth.
Establishing advanced manufacturing systems and capabilities
Strengthening the foundation for overseas growth
Strengthening the commitment to reduce Honda's environmental footprint
1. Establishing Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Capabilities
By strengthening the areas of production and R&D in Japan that supports the future growth of overseas operations, Honda will establish advanced manufacturing systems and capabilities to create new value.
Strengthening Japan Production
Building a New Automobile Production Plant:
Honda plans to build a new auto plant capable of synchronous auto production - from the engine to the entire automobile -- in Yorii, Saitama to begin operation in 2010.
The annual production capacity of this new auto plant will be approximately 200,000 units. Employment at the new plant is expected to be 2,200 associates. Related investment is expected to be approximately 70 billion yen.
When the new plant becomes operational, Honda's total annual production capacity in Japan will be increased from the current 1.3 million units to 1.5 million units.
After the new Yorii plant becomes operational, Honda will renovate the Sayama plant to make it the most advanced production operation. Honda will establish a high quality and high efficiency manufacturing system by applying the latest technologies to both the Sayama and Yorii plants. These plants will be responsible for evolving such manufacturing systems horizontally to other Honda operations worldwide.
Strengthening Automatic Transmission (AT) Production:
The production capabilities at the Hamamatsu Plant will be further strengthened as the leader plant of global AT production, with manufacturing technologies to be further advanced in Hamamatsu.
Strengthening R&D Capabilities
Establishing New R&D Center:
Honda will build a new R&D center in Sakura, Tochigi. This new R&D facility will have multiple test courses, which reproduce various driving conditions including high-speed driving to urban-area driving. In this way, Honda will strengthen development of next-generation vehicles. Honda is aiming to begin operation of this new R&D facility in 2009. Related investment is expected to be approximately 17 billion yen.
2. Strengthening the Foundation for Overseas Growth
Honda will further strengthen the foundation for the growth of overseas operations by focusing on strengthening its business foundation in North America and on business expansion in growth areas such as Asia and South America.
Strengthening North American Operations
Building a New Automobile Production Plant in the US:
The new auto plant in the U.S., which is planned to become operational in 2008, will have annual production capacity of approximately 200,000 units. The related investment is expected to be approximately US$ 400 million. Employment at this new plant is expected to be more than 1500 associates. And this new plant will have the lowest environmental footprint among other Honda auto plants in North America.
We are in the final process of selecting locations, with plans to announce more details when the final decision is made.
With this new plant, annual auto production capacity in North America will be increased from the current 1.4 million units to 1.6 million units.
Building a New Auto Engine Plant in Canada:
Honda plans to build a new engine plant in Canada, neighborring the existing auto plant - Honda of Canada Mfg.(HCM) The annual production capacity will be approximately 200,000 units, and the plant should begin operation in 2008. Related investment is expected to be approximately US$140 million, with employment of 340 associates.
This new engine plant will produce four cylinder engines for supply to HCM, which are now produced at Anna Engine Plant in Ohio. The Anna Engine Plant will begin supplying engines for the new auto plant in the U.S. and will also begin producing some engine components which are currently being supplied from Japan. Through this, Honda is going to further increase its local content in North America.
The new automatic transmission plant in Georgia (with annual production capacity of more than 300,000 units) began operations this month (May 2006). With the addition of this plant, Honda will establish an integrated AT production capability and further improve production efficiency.
Expanding Business in Growth Areas
Motorcycle Business in Asia:
Hero Honda in India is planning to increase capacity of its existing line (by 450,000 units) as well as build a new plant with annual production capacity of 450,000 units. As a result, annual motorcycle production capacity in India will increase by an additional 900,000 units to a total of 5.2 million units by 2007.
Honda is planning to expand motorcycle production capacity in the Philippines and Pakistan. With these expansion plans, the annual motorcycle production capacity in Asia will reach 14 million units by 2007 - an increase of 6 million units in three years, compared to the 8 million unit capacity in 2004.
Automobile Business in Asia:
Honda has decided to undertake the plan to double automobile production capacity in India three years ahead of the original schedule. Annual automobile production capacity in India will reach 100,000 units around the end of 2007. Honda will consider further expansion to accommodate future growth in customer demand.
Automobile Business in China:
When Guangzhou Honda's second auto plant with annual production capacity of 120,000 units becomes operational this fall, total automobile production capacity in China will reach 530,000 units. Honda will consider further expansion based on future market trends.
Automobile Business in South America:
Honda is planning to double production capacity of its auto plant in Brazil to 100,000 units by 2008.
Based on these expansion plans and other initiatives, Honda envisions 2010 global unit sales of more than 4.5 million units for automobiles, 18 million units or more for motorcycles, and 7 million plus units for power products.
3. Strengthening our Commitment to Reduce Environmental Footprint
Under the direction of "commitment for the future," Honda will continue pursuing more proactive efforts to reduce its environmental footprint with the main focus on CO2 reduction.
Reduction of CO2 Emissions - Setting Voluntary Goals
Honda voluntarily sets global CO2 reduction goals for its products and production activities and is accelerating its efforts to achieve those goals.
In 2000, the global average of CO2 exhaust emissions among Honda automobiles was 179.5g/km. Despite increased sales of larger-size vehicles such as SUV and minivans, average CO2 emissions were reduced by 5% during the five year period up to 2005.
Honda now strives to achieve a further reduction of 5% or more, aiming to accomplish a total 10% reduction by 2010 compared to the level of 2000. Honda will also work toward a 10% reduction both for motorcycles and power products.
At Honda, the global average of CO2 emissions to produce one automobile also declined by approximately 5% during the five year period up to 2005. Honda is working toward a further reduction by 5% or more by 2010 to achieve a total reduction of 10% compared to the level of 2000. For motorcycle and power product production, Honda set goals to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% in each area.
Honda is the first automaker in the world to announce global CO2 reduction goals for its products and production activities.
Product strategy
New Dedicated Hybrid Vehicle:
Honda is now developing a new dedicated hybrid vehicle suitable for family use in major automobile markets in the world. With this new dedicated hybrid vehicle Honda will achieve further advancement of fuel efficient technologies and a major cost reduction, which will enable Honda to offer this vehicle in 2009 at a price level lower than the Civic Hybrid.
Production of all-new, more-affordable, dedicated hybrid vehicle, including the hybrid unit, will be produced at Suzuka Factory. The worldwide sales plan is approximately 200,000 units per year that includes projected North American sales volume 100,000 units.
New Clean Diesel:
� Based on the current highly successful diesel engine currently sold in Europe, Honda is now developing a cleaner next-generation 4-cylinder diesel engine. This engine will meet the U.S. EPA's stringent Tier2 BIN5 emission standard requiring NOx emission levels equivalent to a gasoline-powered vehicle. Honda plans to introduce this super-clean diesel engine to market within the next three years.
Honda will also work toward development of a clean V6 diesel engine.
While improving the fuel efficiency of gasoline engines with Advanced VTEC, Advanced VCM, and other technologies, Honda will expand application of hybrid technology to smaller size vehicles and diesel technology to medium-to-large size vehicles. Thorough these comprehensive efforts leveraging the unique characteristics of each environmental technology, Honda will accelerate its effort to reduce CO2 emissions.
Motorcycles:
Honda plans to install fuel injection on the majority of models for sale worldwide by the end of 2010.
Moreover, Honda will introduce new engine technologies such as super-low friction engines, which will improve fuel economy by up to 13% compared to the current level, and VCM systems for motorcycles, which will improve fuel economy by up to 30% compared to the current level.
Fuel Cell Vehicle:
Honda is currently developing a new vehicle based on the technology and design of the FCX Concept, and a drivable model will be unveiled in fall of this year. Honda plans to begin sales of this new fuel cell vehicle within the next three years.
Solar Cell:
Solar cell panels developed by Honda are currently installed and utilized at 15 Honda facilities worldwide, the Suzuka Factory will be added to this list in fall of this year.
Honda will begin the production and sales of solar panels in fall of this year, within limited areas. Honda will begin mass production of the solar panel by establishing a production line with the annual capacity of 27.5 megawatts at Honda's Kumamoto Factory in 2007.
Honda will further strengthen its ability to create advanced technologies and products that represent the uniqueness of Honda with the goal to become number one in the world in creating new value and joy for our customers.
source : theautochannel
Torrance, Calif. May 17, 2006; Accelerate our effort to strengthen the core characteristics that make Honda unique to accomplish further growth
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced specific plans and initiatives in the following three areas, which will enable Honda to accelerate its efforts to strengthen Honda "at the spot," strengthen the core characteristics that make Honda unique, and achieve further growth.
Establishing advanced manufacturing systems and capabilities
Strengthening the foundation for overseas growth
Strengthening the commitment to reduce Honda's environmental footprint
1. Establishing Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Capabilities
By strengthening the areas of production and R&D in Japan that supports the future growth of overseas operations, Honda will establish advanced manufacturing systems and capabilities to create new value.
Strengthening Japan Production
Building a New Automobile Production Plant:
Honda plans to build a new auto plant capable of synchronous auto production - from the engine to the entire automobile -- in Yorii, Saitama to begin operation in 2010.
The annual production capacity of this new auto plant will be approximately 200,000 units. Employment at the new plant is expected to be 2,200 associates. Related investment is expected to be approximately 70 billion yen.
When the new plant becomes operational, Honda's total annual production capacity in Japan will be increased from the current 1.3 million units to 1.5 million units.
After the new Yorii plant becomes operational, Honda will renovate the Sayama plant to make it the most advanced production operation. Honda will establish a high quality and high efficiency manufacturing system by applying the latest technologies to both the Sayama and Yorii plants. These plants will be responsible for evolving such manufacturing systems horizontally to other Honda operations worldwide.
Strengthening Automatic Transmission (AT) Production:
The production capabilities at the Hamamatsu Plant will be further strengthened as the leader plant of global AT production, with manufacturing technologies to be further advanced in Hamamatsu.
Strengthening R&D Capabilities
Establishing New R&D Center:
Honda will build a new R&D center in Sakura, Tochigi. This new R&D facility will have multiple test courses, which reproduce various driving conditions including high-speed driving to urban-area driving. In this way, Honda will strengthen development of next-generation vehicles. Honda is aiming to begin operation of this new R&D facility in 2009. Related investment is expected to be approximately 17 billion yen.
2. Strengthening the Foundation for Overseas Growth
Honda will further strengthen the foundation for the growth of overseas operations by focusing on strengthening its business foundation in North America and on business expansion in growth areas such as Asia and South America.
Strengthening North American Operations
Building a New Automobile Production Plant in the US:
The new auto plant in the U.S., which is planned to become operational in 2008, will have annual production capacity of approximately 200,000 units. The related investment is expected to be approximately US$ 400 million. Employment at this new plant is expected to be more than 1500 associates. And this new plant will have the lowest environmental footprint among other Honda auto plants in North America.
We are in the final process of selecting locations, with plans to announce more details when the final decision is made.
With this new plant, annual auto production capacity in North America will be increased from the current 1.4 million units to 1.6 million units.
Building a New Auto Engine Plant in Canada:
Honda plans to build a new engine plant in Canada, neighborring the existing auto plant - Honda of Canada Mfg.(HCM) The annual production capacity will be approximately 200,000 units, and the plant should begin operation in 2008. Related investment is expected to be approximately US$140 million, with employment of 340 associates.
This new engine plant will produce four cylinder engines for supply to HCM, which are now produced at Anna Engine Plant in Ohio. The Anna Engine Plant will begin supplying engines for the new auto plant in the U.S. and will also begin producing some engine components which are currently being supplied from Japan. Through this, Honda is going to further increase its local content in North America.
The new automatic transmission plant in Georgia (with annual production capacity of more than 300,000 units) began operations this month (May 2006). With the addition of this plant, Honda will establish an integrated AT production capability and further improve production efficiency.
Expanding Business in Growth Areas
Motorcycle Business in Asia:
Hero Honda in India is planning to increase capacity of its existing line (by 450,000 units) as well as build a new plant with annual production capacity of 450,000 units. As a result, annual motorcycle production capacity in India will increase by an additional 900,000 units to a total of 5.2 million units by 2007.
Honda is planning to expand motorcycle production capacity in the Philippines and Pakistan. With these expansion plans, the annual motorcycle production capacity in Asia will reach 14 million units by 2007 - an increase of 6 million units in three years, compared to the 8 million unit capacity in 2004.
Automobile Business in Asia:
Honda has decided to undertake the plan to double automobile production capacity in India three years ahead of the original schedule. Annual automobile production capacity in India will reach 100,000 units around the end of 2007. Honda will consider further expansion to accommodate future growth in customer demand.
Automobile Business in China:
When Guangzhou Honda's second auto plant with annual production capacity of 120,000 units becomes operational this fall, total automobile production capacity in China will reach 530,000 units. Honda will consider further expansion based on future market trends.
Automobile Business in South America:
Honda is planning to double production capacity of its auto plant in Brazil to 100,000 units by 2008.
Based on these expansion plans and other initiatives, Honda envisions 2010 global unit sales of more than 4.5 million units for automobiles, 18 million units or more for motorcycles, and 7 million plus units for power products.
3. Strengthening our Commitment to Reduce Environmental Footprint
Under the direction of "commitment for the future," Honda will continue pursuing more proactive efforts to reduce its environmental footprint with the main focus on CO2 reduction.
Reduction of CO2 Emissions - Setting Voluntary Goals
Honda voluntarily sets global CO2 reduction goals for its products and production activities and is accelerating its efforts to achieve those goals.
In 2000, the global average of CO2 exhaust emissions among Honda automobiles was 179.5g/km. Despite increased sales of larger-size vehicles such as SUV and minivans, average CO2 emissions were reduced by 5% during the five year period up to 2005.
Honda now strives to achieve a further reduction of 5% or more, aiming to accomplish a total 10% reduction by 2010 compared to the level of 2000. Honda will also work toward a 10% reduction both for motorcycles and power products.
At Honda, the global average of CO2 emissions to produce one automobile also declined by approximately 5% during the five year period up to 2005. Honda is working toward a further reduction by 5% or more by 2010 to achieve a total reduction of 10% compared to the level of 2000. For motorcycle and power product production, Honda set goals to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% in each area.
Honda is the first automaker in the world to announce global CO2 reduction goals for its products and production activities.
Product strategy
New Dedicated Hybrid Vehicle:
Honda is now developing a new dedicated hybrid vehicle suitable for family use in major automobile markets in the world. With this new dedicated hybrid vehicle Honda will achieve further advancement of fuel efficient technologies and a major cost reduction, which will enable Honda to offer this vehicle in 2009 at a price level lower than the Civic Hybrid.
Production of all-new, more-affordable, dedicated hybrid vehicle, including the hybrid unit, will be produced at Suzuka Factory. The worldwide sales plan is approximately 200,000 units per year that includes projected North American sales volume 100,000 units.
New Clean Diesel:
� Based on the current highly successful diesel engine currently sold in Europe, Honda is now developing a cleaner next-generation 4-cylinder diesel engine. This engine will meet the U.S. EPA's stringent Tier2 BIN5 emission standard requiring NOx emission levels equivalent to a gasoline-powered vehicle. Honda plans to introduce this super-clean diesel engine to market within the next three years.
Honda will also work toward development of a clean V6 diesel engine.
While improving the fuel efficiency of gasoline engines with Advanced VTEC, Advanced VCM, and other technologies, Honda will expand application of hybrid technology to smaller size vehicles and diesel technology to medium-to-large size vehicles. Thorough these comprehensive efforts leveraging the unique characteristics of each environmental technology, Honda will accelerate its effort to reduce CO2 emissions.
Motorcycles:
Honda plans to install fuel injection on the majority of models for sale worldwide by the end of 2010.
Moreover, Honda will introduce new engine technologies such as super-low friction engines, which will improve fuel economy by up to 13% compared to the current level, and VCM systems for motorcycles, which will improve fuel economy by up to 30% compared to the current level.
Fuel Cell Vehicle:
Honda is currently developing a new vehicle based on the technology and design of the FCX Concept, and a drivable model will be unveiled in fall of this year. Honda plans to begin sales of this new fuel cell vehicle within the next three years.
Solar Cell:
Solar cell panels developed by Honda are currently installed and utilized at 15 Honda facilities worldwide, the Suzuka Factory will be added to this list in fall of this year.
Honda will begin the production and sales of solar panels in fall of this year, within limited areas. Honda will begin mass production of the solar panel by establishing a production line with the annual capacity of 27.5 megawatts at Honda's Kumamoto Factory in 2007.
Honda will further strengthen its ability to create advanced technologies and products that represent the uniqueness of Honda with the goal to become number one in the world in creating new value and joy for our customers.
source : theautochannel
09-24-06, 03:48 PM
#7
Latest News
Honda Shows New Diesel; Fuel-Cell Cars
By YURI KAGEYAMA, AP Business Writer 1 hour, 42 minutes ago
HAGA, Japan - Diesel engines deliver great mileage but emit polluting gases. Fuel cell vehicles are zero-emission but look bulky. Honda's latest innovations counter the stereotypes. The latest fuel cell vehicle from the Japanese automaker, planned for limited marketing in Japan and the U.S. in 2008, has a slick, streamlined, close-to-the-ground look. Honda Motor Co.'s next-generation diesel engine delivers as clean a drive as a low-emission gas engine of comparable size.
Honda's showcased its latest developments in clean driving to reporters recently at its research facility north of Tokyo.
In a test drive, the FCX Concept fuel cell vehicle zipped quietly and effortlessly on a course at about 100 miles per hour. Honda declined to give a price for the vehicle.
Like other fuel cell vehicles, the new model runs on the power produced when oxygen in the air combines with hydrogen that's stored in the fuel tank — producing only harmless water vapor.
Old-style fuel cell stacks, the main part of the fuel cell vehicle, are usually placed under the floor of a car, making for thick floors and a box-like look.
Honda's new fuel cell stack is 20 percent smaller than the one it developed in 2003, and can sit in between the driver and passenger's seats in the front, where the stick shift lies in a regular car.
It weighs 67 kilograms (148 pounds), or about two-thirds of the 96-kilogram (213-pound) 2003 version, and far lighter than the one released in 1999, which weighed 202 kilograms (445 pounds). But it produces more power.
Another innovation in the works at Honda is the next-generation diesel car — planned for the U.S. market within three years.
Diesels are growing in popularity in Europe and some other parts of the world because of their fuel efficiency, and automakers have been working on technology to reduce diesel emissions as nations toughen environmental standards. Honda said its new engine meets standards applied in the U.S. state of California, the world's most stringent.
The key to Honda's diesel innovation is the catalytic converter attached to the engine. Honda used an ingenious way to generate ammonia — a substance that can turn harmful nitrogen oxide into harmless nitrogen.
Diesel engine systems already use ammonia to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. But Honda's system is self-sustaining and more efficient than others, company officials said.
Honda President Takeo Fukui said Honda is serious about fighting global warming and reducing pollution.
"Honda believes in the importance of keeping a creative spirit and upholding high ideals," he told reporters.
By YURI KAGEYAMA, AP Business Writer 1 hour, 42 minutes ago
HAGA, Japan - Diesel engines deliver great mileage but emit polluting gases. Fuel cell vehicles are zero-emission but look bulky. Honda's latest innovations counter the stereotypes. The latest fuel cell vehicle from the Japanese automaker, planned for limited marketing in Japan and the U.S. in 2008, has a slick, streamlined, close-to-the-ground look. Honda Motor Co.'s next-generation diesel engine delivers as clean a drive as a low-emission gas engine of comparable size.
Honda's showcased its latest developments in clean driving to reporters recently at its research facility north of Tokyo.
In a test drive, the FCX Concept fuel cell vehicle zipped quietly and effortlessly on a course at about 100 miles per hour. Honda declined to give a price for the vehicle.
Like other fuel cell vehicles, the new model runs on the power produced when oxygen in the air combines with hydrogen that's stored in the fuel tank — producing only harmless water vapor.
Old-style fuel cell stacks, the main part of the fuel cell vehicle, are usually placed under the floor of a car, making for thick floors and a box-like look.
Honda's new fuel cell stack is 20 percent smaller than the one it developed in 2003, and can sit in between the driver and passenger's seats in the front, where the stick shift lies in a regular car.
It weighs 67 kilograms (148 pounds), or about two-thirds of the 96-kilogram (213-pound) 2003 version, and far lighter than the one released in 1999, which weighed 202 kilograms (445 pounds). But it produces more power.
Another innovation in the works at Honda is the next-generation diesel car — planned for the U.S. market within three years.
Diesels are growing in popularity in Europe and some other parts of the world because of their fuel efficiency, and automakers have been working on technology to reduce diesel emissions as nations toughen environmental standards. Honda said its new engine meets standards applied in the U.S. state of California, the world's most stringent.
The key to Honda's diesel innovation is the catalytic converter attached to the engine. Honda used an ingenious way to generate ammonia — a substance that can turn harmful nitrogen oxide into harmless nitrogen.
Diesel engine systems already use ammonia to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. But Honda's system is self-sustaining and more efficient than others, company officials said.
Honda President Takeo Fukui said Honda is serious about fighting global warming and reducing pollution.
"Honda believes in the importance of keeping a creative spirit and upholding high ideals," he told reporters.
Trending Topics
09-24-06, 06:55 PM
#8
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (20)
Honda unveils diesel system to rival gasoline cars
By Chang-Ran Kim, Asia auto correspondentSun Sep 24, 1:12 PM ET
Japan's Honda Motor Co. (7267.T) has done it again.
The car maker that floored the world in the 1970s with the first gasoline engine to meet U.S. clean air guidelines without a catalytic converter said it has developed a new and simple diesel powertrain that is as clean as gasoline-fuelled cars.
The technology marks a big step forward for Honda at a time when rivals are racing to come up with ways to clear the world's strictest emissions regulations, called Tier II Bin 5, that the United States will usher in next year.
Diesel engines, which now power half of Europe's new cars, are slowly gaining traction with fuel-conscious consumers around the world since they typically get 30 percent better mileage than gasoline cars. Their weakness has been the higher exhaust levels of nitrogen oxide (NOx), a greenhouse gas.
Honda said on Monday its new diesel drivetrain features a unique method that generates and stores ammonia within a two-layer catalytic converter to turn nitrogen oxide into harmless nitrogen.
Honda engineers said the technology is superior to a process pioneered by Germany's DaimlerChrysler AG (DCXGn.DE) because the latter requires a complex system and heavy add-ons to generate ammonia from urea-based additives.
Some technical hurdles remain.
The system would need fine-tuning for the wide-ranging cetane indices of diesel fuel found in the United States. Honda also needs to develop technology to measure emissions levels according to U.S. On-Board Diagnostic System requirements.
But Japan's third-biggest auto maker said it planned to roll out the advanced diesel engine in the United States within three years. DaimlerChrysler, which along with Volkswagen AG (VOWG.DE) already sells diesel cars in the world's biggest auto market, is preparing its next-generation diesel car for a 2008 launch.
"Just as we paved the way for cleaner gasoline engines, we will take the leadership in the progress of diesel engines," Honda Chief Executive Takeo Fukui told a news conference at the auto maker's R&D center north of Tokyo.
Fukui said Honda would be "open to considering" the licensing of its new diesel technology once it was perfected.
Honda has long been at the forefront of green powertrain technology, perhaps most famously with the development in 1973 of the CVCC (Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion) engine which gave the popular Civic its name.
Earlier this year, it became the first in the world to announce voluntary global carbon dioxide reduction targets for its products and production processes.
FUEL CELLS, FLEX-FUEL
In a demonstration of other new power plant technologies, Honda also showed off a prototype of its next-generation fuel cell vehicle which runs on a newly developed compact and more powerful fuel cell stack.
The new stack is designed to allow the hydrogen and water formed during electricity generation to flow vertically instead of horizontally, making the component 20 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than the previous version.
Honda's new FCX fuel-cell car now has a driving range of 570 km (354 miles) -- a 30 percent improvement from the 2005 model -- a maximum speed of 160 km (100 miles) per hour and can be driven in temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius (86
F).
Honda plans to begin marketing the car in limited numbers in 2008 in Japan and the United States.
Honda said it also developed a flexible fuel vehicle (FFV) system that can operate on any ethanol-to-gasoline ratio between 20 percent and 100 percent. That car will be sold in Brazil, the biggest market for ethanol-based vehicles, later this year.
"Way out in the future, the ultimate green car will be fuel cell vehicles," Fukui said. "But in the meantime, you need a wide range of green technology to meet varying local needs and fuel supply."
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20060924/...echnology_dc_1
By Chang-Ran Kim, Asia auto correspondentSun Sep 24, 1:12 PM ET
Japan's Honda Motor Co. (7267.T) has done it again.
The car maker that floored the world in the 1970s with the first gasoline engine to meet U.S. clean air guidelines without a catalytic converter said it has developed a new and simple diesel powertrain that is as clean as gasoline-fuelled cars.
The technology marks a big step forward for Honda at a time when rivals are racing to come up with ways to clear the world's strictest emissions regulations, called Tier II Bin 5, that the United States will usher in next year.
Diesel engines, which now power half of Europe's new cars, are slowly gaining traction with fuel-conscious consumers around the world since they typically get 30 percent better mileage than gasoline cars. Their weakness has been the higher exhaust levels of nitrogen oxide (NOx), a greenhouse gas.
Honda said on Monday its new diesel drivetrain features a unique method that generates and stores ammonia within a two-layer catalytic converter to turn nitrogen oxide into harmless nitrogen.
Honda engineers said the technology is superior to a process pioneered by Germany's DaimlerChrysler AG (DCXGn.DE) because the latter requires a complex system and heavy add-ons to generate ammonia from urea-based additives.
Some technical hurdles remain.
The system would need fine-tuning for the wide-ranging cetane indices of diesel fuel found in the United States. Honda also needs to develop technology to measure emissions levels according to U.S. On-Board Diagnostic System requirements.
But Japan's third-biggest auto maker said it planned to roll out the advanced diesel engine in the United States within three years. DaimlerChrysler, which along with Volkswagen AG (VOWG.DE) already sells diesel cars in the world's biggest auto market, is preparing its next-generation diesel car for a 2008 launch.
"Just as we paved the way for cleaner gasoline engines, we will take the leadership in the progress of diesel engines," Honda Chief Executive Takeo Fukui told a news conference at the auto maker's R&D center north of Tokyo.
Fukui said Honda would be "open to considering" the licensing of its new diesel technology once it was perfected.
Honda has long been at the forefront of green powertrain technology, perhaps most famously with the development in 1973 of the CVCC (Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion) engine which gave the popular Civic its name.
Earlier this year, it became the first in the world to announce voluntary global carbon dioxide reduction targets for its products and production processes.
FUEL CELLS, FLEX-FUEL
In a demonstration of other new power plant technologies, Honda also showed off a prototype of its next-generation fuel cell vehicle which runs on a newly developed compact and more powerful fuel cell stack.
The new stack is designed to allow the hydrogen and water formed during electricity generation to flow vertically instead of horizontally, making the component 20 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than the previous version.
Honda's new FCX fuel-cell car now has a driving range of 570 km (354 miles) -- a 30 percent improvement from the 2005 model -- a maximum speed of 160 km (100 miles) per hour and can be driven in temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius (86
F).
Honda plans to begin marketing the car in limited numbers in 2008 in Japan and the United States.
Honda said it also developed a flexible fuel vehicle (FFV) system that can operate on any ethanol-to-gasoline ratio between 20 percent and 100 percent. That car will be sold in Brazil, the biggest market for ethanol-based vehicles, later this year.
"Way out in the future, the ultimate green car will be fuel cell vehicles," Fukui said. "But in the meantime, you need a wide range of green technology to meet varying local needs and fuel supply."
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20060924/...echnology_dc_1
09-27-06, 08:58 AM
#10
Lexus Champion
Honda says this new diesel engine is a 2000 bar powerplant.
If this is true, then I'm impressed. The only other diesel engine with this output is the one from VAG for the Q7 6.0L TDI.
Of course, the Europeans still have the crazy 1,000 nm torque frenzy and that's where they lead....but at least Honda brings something powerful to the table.
They also mention that it breaks the THREE worlds TOUGHEST vehicle emission regulations:
1) US (incl. California)
2) Europe (especially the upcoming Euro V)
3) Japan (the 2010 vehicle emissions guidelines)
This would probably do better than the MB diesel where they inject urea or something....but is having trouble getting accepted in California
Hope they can bring this Honda Diesel engine to the Philippines when it's out.
If this is true, then I'm impressed. The only other diesel engine with this output is the one from VAG for the Q7 6.0L TDI.
Of course, the Europeans still have the crazy 1,000 nm torque frenzy and that's where they lead....but at least Honda brings something powerful to the table.
They also mention that it breaks the THREE worlds TOUGHEST vehicle emission regulations:
1) US (incl. California)
2) Europe (especially the upcoming Euro V)
3) Japan (the 2010 vehicle emissions guidelines)
This would probably do better than the MB diesel where they inject urea or something....but is having trouble getting accepted in California
Hope they can bring this Honda Diesel engine to the Philippines when it's out.
09-27-06, 10:53 AM
#11
honda said within 3 years they will have a new generation of more advanced VTEC engines, probably going to replace the aging J series of the accord, TL, RL, etc. K series is still fairly new and still has a lot of potential
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=615794
More engine info:
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=615777
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=615769
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=615794
Advanced Gasoline Engine
Honda has further improved its VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System) technology with the development of the Advanced VTEC engine, which provides high performance along with outstanding fuel economy and lower emissions. The new engine combines continuously variable valve lift and timing control with the continuously variable phase control of VTC (Variable Timing Control) to achieve a world-leading level of performance and a 13%1 improvement in fuel efficiency. Honda plans to release a production vehicle equipped with the new engine within three years.
Honda has further improved its VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System) technology with the development of the Advanced VTEC engine, which provides high performance along with outstanding fuel economy and lower emissions. The new engine combines continuously variable valve lift and timing control with the continuously variable phase control of VTC (Variable Timing Control) to achieve a world-leading level of performance and a 13%1 improvement in fuel efficiency. Honda plans to release a production vehicle equipped with the new engine within three years.
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=615777
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=615769
09-27-06, 07:43 PM
#14
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (20)
09-27-06, 09:11 PM
#15
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