BESTCAR Front Cover: Next Gen Honda Beat Rendering

Let's hope that if they do 'green light' something like this that we see this here in North America.

Source;

http://jp-cardesigncorner.blogspot.com/2011/07/latest-rendering-of-upcoming-honda-beat.html

Honda's Next Sportscar?

Stumbled across this in a recent S2000 fan site forum, interesting, they say that they found it in Road & Track; "According to R&T, this will be a 3.5 liter V6 based on the JDM Accord. The speculation is that the car will have 200 - 250 bhp and will sell in the $25,000 to $30,000 range. They say the car will hit dealers next year!" hmmm, wouldn't be too excited about seeing this car next year.... Source; http://www.s2ki.com/s2000/topic/850960-s2000-replacement/

Honda CR-Z TS-1X : DigInfo

2011 North American Auto Show: 2012 Honda Civic Coupe Si Concept

Honda dusted off concept versions of the ninth generation Civic Coupe and Sedan at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show today, and the automaker says that along with mildly updated exteriors, both vehicles will wear improved interiors compared to the current-generation Civic. Judging from the history of Honda concepts, there's a good chance that the production versions of both the four and two-door Civics will be very similar to the vehicles you see above. That means that the Civic Coupe will wear styling influenced heavily by the current Accord Coupe.

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/10/detroit-2011-honda-civic-coupe-and-sedan-concepts-are-visions-o/

Honda CR-Z Roadster Die-cast Begs the Question; Should it Become a Reality?

Interesting....

From what we know, Honda has no official plans to build a roadster version of its CR-Z hybrid coupe. But that hasn't stopped others from trying - even if in this case, we're talking about a scaled down die-cast model. Too bad we couldn't find any additional pictures of the toy-sized model, and especially of the rear end. If you happen to have any information and/or pictures, you know the drill... Follow the break and share your thoughts on whether or not Honda should create a two-seater drop top version of its CR-Z.

Source;
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2010/11/honda-cr-z-roadster-die-cast-begs.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+Carscoop+%28CARSCOOP%29&utm_content=Google+Reader

Below is an older photoshop of what someone was thinking that the car might look like....

L.A. auto show: Honda to reveal electric concept

Honda will unveil an electric-vehicle concept on Nov. 17 at the Los Angeles auto show. It will be accompanied by a new platform that shows off Honda's latest plug-in developments.

Honda Motor Co. Ltd. president and CEO Takanobu Ito will be at the press conference, marking the first time the company's global CEO has made a product reveal in Los Angeles.

The show is expected to feature about 20 global reveals, organizers said on Wednesday.

Source;
http://www.autoweek.com/article/20101027/LOSANGELES/101029900

Honda Design Concept: The Honda AIR

Honda Air

The Honda Air concept is a vision of the future of lightweight and alternative fuel performance vehicles; a coastal cruiser for the aggressive lifestyle. Inspired by the modern roller coaster as well as skydiving wing-suits, the Air is powered by a compressed air and pneumatic regulator system. It utilizes turbo vacuums and external air-flow to regenerate tank pressure for extended range and increased boost for an estimated 100 miles. The chassis doubles as the master tank and all components, including seating, are mounted to the central chassis/tank to eliminate redundant structure and reduce overall weight.

Vegetable based polymer panels and fairings protect occupants, maintaining the solid Honda method; safety for everyone. The Air’s cockpit and package maintain the aggressive human packaging of a modern roller coaster aimed at maximizing the open air experience. In order to reduce weight and increase dynamic performance, a hub-less wheel and drive system eliminates the use of heavy drive train components. Glass reinforced seating panels, urethane tire composition and skeletal sub-frame components combine for drastic weight savings. Using a Honda generator / air compressor at home or tire filler at your local filling station, the main tanks and reserves can be filled quickly and safely.

At just under 800 lbs., the powerful anthem of pneumatic propulsion and a character unlike any zero-emission vehicle exemplifies Honda’s concept of fun to drive. The pow[air] of dreams.

Source;
http://www.laautoshow.com/DC10/Honda.html

Another look at the 2011 Honda Civic?

This is the second pic that www.woodyscarsite.com has come up with on the Civic.... Not sure what to think.... In my opinion if this is indeed the car, it's in Concept stage but typically Honda doesn't stray too far from the concept....Source;
http://www.woodyscarsite.com/2010/08/2011-honda-civic_31.html

Beijing 2010: Honda Li Nian Everus sedan concept

I can't help but think that this concept is showing the direction that Honda may be going with the next generation Honda Civic....
The Beijing Motor Show is well under way, and Honda is showing off a new concept slated for the Chinese market. Called the Li Nian Everus, the car is the fruit of a partnership between the Japanese automaker and its Chinese partner, Guangqi Honda Automobile. We don't have too many details on the sedan other than the fact that at this point, it's nothing more than a concept.

Judging by the renderings, we're tempted to guess this thing has more than a little Civic DNA swimming around in its blood stream, though it looks like Honda raided the Acura design department for the car's less-than-traditional nose and rear-end.

Speaking of the Civic, it would make some sense if Honda swapped a little sheet metal and called it a day. Honda's compact is sold under the Dongfeng Honda banner, leaving Guangqi Honda Automobile without a comparable model. Our guess is that when the Everus comes to market, it will be slightly more upscale and boast more standard niceties than its sibling.

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/23/honda-li-nisn-everus-sedan-concept/

Honda at the Geneva Motor Show 2010

HONDA SHOWCASES ZERO EMISSION EXPERTISE WITH 3R-C AND EV-N CONCEPTS
Honda has unveiled two battery electric urban concept cars at Geneva, the stylish EV-N and the three-wheeled 3R-C, which envisions a single occupant vehicle for zero emission commuting. The radical concepts draw on Honda’s expertise in zero and ultra low emission technologies to show two urban vehicles with no harmful tailpipe emissions.

Both, EV-N and 3R-C, build on Honda's vast working knowledge of battery electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles and fuel cell electric vehicles. Honda began producing the battery electric vehicle EV Plus in 1996 with the vehicles being leased to selected customers in the US. Since 1999 Honda has been selling petrol electric hybrid cars and in 2008 introduced the world's first production fuel cell electric vehicle, the FCX Clarity.

All of these vehicles utilize electric motors for propulsion and batteries to store power and it is this real-world production experience that Honda is bringing to its latest concept models. Honda's FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle uses a Lithium ion battery to store the energy from regenerative braking and Honda is currently enhancing its expertise in this area. Last-year a deal was signed with GS Yuasa to build a joint venture battery plant to produce Lithium ion battery packs for future Honda vehicles.

EV-N
The EV-N is a battery electric vehicle study, which evokes the spirit of the diminutive 1967 N360 city car. Honda designers have incorporated Honda's own solar panels in to the roof of the concept, to charge the car while it is parked. Two of Honda's U3-X, electric personal mobility devices are attached to the inside of each door. The two-door Concept is envisioned with a Lithium ion battery pack, and small electric motor for predominantly urban use.

The EV-N concept's four-seat interior makes use of the compact dimensions of the battery electric drivetrain, to maximise space and utility, without increasing the vehicles dimensions. The seats of the car have been produced in a mesh finish, which is both very light and easy to change, to make it easy to change the colour and style of the interior, quickly and easily. The interior has been designed in a deliberately minimal style, to reduce the weight of the vehicle, increasing range and performance.

3R-C
This revolutionary three wheeled battery electric vehicle concept shows what a future minimal urban transport vehicle for one person might look like. The battery electric drivetrain, is mounted low in the three wheeled chassis, therefore keeping the center of gravity low and thus improving stability.

The 3R-C has a clear canopy that covers the driver's seat while it is parked and not in use. When the three wheel vehicle is in motion, the canopy becomes an enveloping wind-shield that provides the pilot, who sits low in the chassis, with significant protection.

The high sides of the safety shell seat give greater safety to the occupant, reducing the threat from side impacts and improving weather protection. In front of the driver is a lockable boot area, which gives significant secure storage for luggage or other items. The 3R-C's designers created a flexible cover that surrounds the upper torso to reduce exposure to bad weather and improving comfort.

The Honda CR-Z sporty hybrid coupe
The European version of the Honda CR-Z makes its debut at the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show. The European version features a 2+2* cabin layout, bespoke LED accented headlights and is only available with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The CR-Z is a unique new car, combining the advantages of a clean, efficient petrol electric hybrid powertrain with a manual transmission and a stylish coupe body. This exciting new coupe will change current perceptions of hybrids, with its engaging chassis and responsive IMA hybrid system.

•All-new, sporty, aerodynamic, 2+2* coupe form
•Wide track, short wheelbase chassis for agile and responsive handling
•Unique 3-Mode Drive System to tailor steering, throttle response and IMA assistance to the driver's needs
•1.5-liter i-VTEC engine coupled to the Honda IMA parallel hybrid system with CO2 emissions of 117 g/km** and 5.0 l/100km fuel economy in combined mode**
•World's first 6-speed manual transmission combined with a hybrid drive train
•Driver focussed cockpit design with 3D instruments
•European market cars to be equipped with flexible 2+2* seating arrangement

The CR-Z‘s exterior styling is formed around a "one-motion wedge" concept with a low bonnet line and wide stance giving the car a confident, athletic look. Signature Honda design features, such as the split level rear glass hatch and aerodynamic, shallow raked roofline have been referenced in the design of the sleek coupe and then combined with a curvaceous and deeply sculpted exterior form.

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 the 1.8-liter 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.

For the first time, a fuel efficient, low emission parallel hybrid system is combined with an ultra precise 6-speed manual gearbox. The manual gearbox is a core part of the driver engagement Honda's engineers wanted to bring to the CR-Z model. The flexibility of Honda's unique IMA parallel hybrid system allows it to be used with a range of transmissions, not just CVT-based gearboxes.

The manual transmission is complemented by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, which is new to Europe and is a key component in the CR-Z's unique character. This powerful, yet efficient engine is based on the engine found in the Brazilian version of the Jazz. The eager to rev nature of the medium capacity engine, is enhanced by the additional 78 Nm of torque provided by the 14 PS electric motor, which is situated between the engine and transmission. The electric motor boosts torque at low and medium revs, which gives the CR-Z in-gear flexibility more usually associated with turbocharged engines.

To maximize driver choice and enhance the day to day driveability of the car, the CR-Z is fitted with a 3-Mode Drive System. This unique feature allows the driver to choose between three driving modes, which alter the responses of the throttle, steering, idle stop timing, climate control and the level of assistance provided by the IMA system. In developing this new facility, Honda allows the driver to adapt the car's settings to enjoy their favourite road, maximise economy, or strike a balance between the two.

Sport buttons have become commonplace, usually offering a sharper throttle response, but Honda's 3-Mode Drive System is different. The new system alters the behaviour of the hybrid drivetrain and the power steering assistance as well as the throttle mapping between the three modes.

When the CR-Z driver is away from the town or city and wanting to enjoy the open road, they can put the car into SPORT mode. This sharpens the throttle response, changes the behaviour of the IMA hybrid system to provide more electric motor assistance and increases the weight of the electric power steering.

Honda recognizes that even the most enthusiastic driver may regularly experience heavy traffic, where maximizing fuel economy is more desirable than the perfect line through a corner. In these situations ECON mode can be selected, which prioritises fuel economy in the operation of the drive-by-wire throttle, ECU, air conditioning and the hybrid system. For those times when spirited driving is not possible or desirable, the Eco Assist function, in conjunction with the ECON mode, allows the driver to enjoy beating their best economy score on the way to work, or in heavy traffic.

At all other times the car can be run in NORMAL mode, which provides a balance between performance, economy and emissions and suits most driving situations.

The ambient lighting of the speedometer is used in the same way as in the Insight to guide the driver in driving more economically and ecologically. In addition to the Eco Assist function, the CR-Z's meter lighting is linked to the 3-mode drive system. In NORMAL mode the speedometer is illuminated blue, in ECON mode it is also blue (glowing green when driven economically) and it has a green eco flower lit alongside and when the speedometer is illuminated in a red ambient light, this indicates the CR-Z is in SPORT mode.

Careful consideration was given to exhaust design to ensure that as well as being efficient, the CR-Z is a car that encourages the enthusiastic driver and sounds quite unlike any previous compact hybrid. Other components including engine mounts and sound deadening were tuned to ensure that the sporting elements of the exhaust were heard by the driver, but less desirable noises often associated with sports exhausts were attenuated.

The exterior design of CR-Z deliberately evokes the iconic style of the 1980s CR-X, which was originally developed to provide a small, stylish car that could achieve spectacular economy. Signature features of the CR-X, like the split level rear glass hatch and low shallow raked roofline have been referenced in the design of the sleek coupe and then combined with a curvaceous and deeply sculpted exterior form.

The shallow raked roofline and sharply truncated tail of the CR-Z is a key Honda design feature shared with many models past and present. All of these cars have been designed to cut through the air with minimal disturbance, reducing drag to lower fuel consumption and emissions. The CR-Z's blue tinted headlights are accented with LED daytime running lights, positioned in the lower section of the front lights. This is the first time LED daytime running lights have been applied to the front of any production Honda car and help to emphasize the wide sporting stance of the new hybrid coupe.

The interior of the production car has been developed from the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show CR-Z Concept, with its 3D displays and driver focussed cabin. The high-technology instrument binnacle places all of the commonly used controls close to the driver's hands, allowing full concentration on driving at all times.

The dashboard of the new coupe has a complex two-level construction, with a dark upper portion appearing to float above a light grey lower dash section, which continues into the center of the inner door panels.

Equipment levels on the CR-Z are generous with all grades benefitting from six airbags, active headrests, Vehicle Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist. All CR-Zs will also come fitted with Climate Control, 6-speaker CD player, USB iPod® link and an engine start button. Middle and top grades benefit from leather seats, steering wheel audio controls and alloy pedals. Top grades gain Bluetooth® Hands Free Telephone controls, Cruise Control, Panoramic Glass Roof, HID lights and 240W high power audio system - including a boot mounted sub-woofer.

The stylish interior has a 2+2* layout, opening up the possibility of carrying smaller adults for short distances or children on longer journeys. The one-touch motion folding rear seats open up a flat floored cargo area, that gives a surprising 400 liters of cargo space, comparable to a C-segment hatchback. The flexible luggage area also has an under-boot area of 19 liters to stow additional cargo, or store items out of sight.

The chassis was an important factor in the development of the new car, with driver enjoyment being a core part of the design brief. The platform shares some components with the Jazz and Insight models, but the wheelbase, track width and set-up are all unique to the new hybrid. Overall the CR-Z has a 115 mm shorter wheelbase and is 295 mm shorter in overall length than the Insight, enhancing agility and reducing kerb weight by 44 kg compared to its 5-door, five-seat, family car cousin.

The CR-Z suspension features unique, spring and damper settings and the tolerances are also unique. One of the major detail changes is the adoption of a forged aluminium lower arm in the MacPherson strut front suspension to replace the Insight's pressed steel items. This reduces weight of each wishbone by 4 kg and also increases strength to cope with the wider track width and tyres.

*2+2 configuration is only available in the EU and Japan.
**All figures preliminary and are subject to homologation

Source;
http://world.honda.com/news/2010/4100302Geneva-Motor-Show/

Honda 3R-C concept World Debut at Geneva International Motor Show 2010

Honda 3R-C concept World Debut at Geneva International Motor Show 2010

The revolutionary Honda 3R-C concept will make its world debut in Geneva, alongside the EV-N concept which makes its European debut at the show.

Both the three-wheeled 3R-C concept, which envisions a single occupant vehicle for zero emission commuting, and the EV-N urban concept, draw on Honda's vast working knowledge of vehicles utilising electric motors.

3R-C
This revolutionary three wheeled battery electric vehicle concept shows what a future minimal urban transport vehicle for one person might look like. The battery electric drivetrain is mounted low in the three wheeled chassis, therefore keeping the centre of gravity low and thus improving stability.

The 3R-C has a clear canopy that covers the driver's seat while it is parked and not in use. When 3R-C vehicle is in motion, the canopy becomes an enveloping wind-shield that provides the pilot, who sits low in the vehicle, with significant protection from the bodywork and doors.

The high sides of the safety shell seat give greater safety to the occupant, reducing the threat from side impacts and improving weather protection. In front of the driver is a lockable boot area, which gives significant secure storage for luggage or other items. The 3R-C's designers created a flexible cover that surrounds the upper torso to reduce exposure to bad weather and improving comfort.

The 3R-C study was created by European designers working at Honda's Research and Design facility in Milan.

EV-N
The EV-N concept, which has only previously been shown at the Tokyo Motor Show will make its European debut in Geneva.

The EV-N is a battery electric vehicle study, which evokes the spirit of the diminutive 1967 N360 city car. Honda designers have incorporated Honda's own solar panels in to the roof of the concept, to charge the car while it is parked. Two of Honda's U3-X, electric personal mobility devices are attached to the inside of each door. The two-door EV-N concept is envisioned with a Lithium ion battery pack, and small electric motor for predominantly urban use.

FCX Clarity
The two concept vehicles will be displayed alongside Honda's production fuel cell electric vehicle, the FCX Clarity. The World Green Car winner is being leased by customers in Japan and the US, who are experiencing the range, performance and practicality of this unique zero-emission vehicle. Two of the bespoke hydrogen fuelled vehicles are now permanently stationed in Europe for long-term research purposes. Alongside research work, the pair of FCX Claritys are being demonstrated at events like the COP 15 climate summit in Copenhagen, and the Berlin Climate Conference. The FCX Clarity shows Honda's continuing commitment to fuel cell electric vehicles as the ultimate zero harmful emission mobility technology.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.eu/en/news/index.pmode/modul,detail,0,1431-DEFAULT,21,text,1/index.pmode

More 2011 Honda Odyssey Concpet Pic's

This will be a sharp indication of what the production version will be, looks great so far! I can't wait to see what they have up their sleeves for the interior....
These pic's are from the Autoblog, here's a link with more photo's;
http://www.autoblog.com/gallery/2011-honda-odyssey-concept-in-chicago/#2

Here's the link to Honda's Press Release(s);
http://thehondaportal.blogspot.com/2010/02/2010-chicago-auto-show-remarks-by-vicki.html
http://thehondaportal.blogspot.com/2010/02/odyssey-concept-reveals-stylish-dynamic.html

Odyssey Concept Reveals Stylish, Dynamic Image for All-New Honda Minivan

Finally!
The next-generation Odyssey adds sleek styling, new functionality and higher fuel economy to best-selling minivan

02/10/2010 - CHICAGO -
The Honda Odyssey Concept, on display at the Chicago Auto Show, introduces a sleek and distinctive exterior styling direction for the next generation of the industry's best-selling minivan, set to debut this fall, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

The Odyssey Concept dramatically departs from conventional minivan styling with its low and wide stance, highlighted by a "lightning-bolt" beltline that further distinguishes the vehicle's profile. Compared to the current Odyssey, the Concept's slightly lower roofline (-1.0 inch) and wider stance (+1.4 inch) contribute to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics that help increase fuel economy. Forthcoming improvements to the production Odyssey's interior are designed to further enhance the current model's accommodating space for people and cargo.

"The Odyssey established its reputation by providing families with what they most want in a minivan - great functionality, an emphasis on safety and good fuel economy," said Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president of American Honda product planning. "Odyssey then further delighted customers with its surprisingly engaging, fun-to-drive and dynamic nature. The next-generation Odyssey promises to take these strengths to a higher level while adding more style and personality."

The steeply raked front and rear roof pillars, unique side-glass profile, chamfered roof line, and tapered rear cabin shape combine to create a dynamic and distinctive appearance from any perspective. The lightning-bolt beltline dives toward the rear of the vehicle emphasizing the new Odyssey's sporty appearance while enhancing outward visibility for third-row passengers.

Aggressive body-to-wheel proportions reduce the perception of vertical height common to most minivan designs. Fender flares further accent the vehicle's securely planted and stylish persona. The concept vehicle's projector beam headlights, LED taillights and form-fit fog lights further heighten the sophisticated quality of the design.

Enhanced aerodynamics and advanced powertrain technologies will contribute to the next-generation Odyssey's increased fuel efficiency. The all-new 2011 Odyssey is expected to achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating1 of 19 city/28 highway miles-per gallon on select models (preliminary estimate determined by Honda).

Currently in its third generation, the Odyssey's unique array of features, including its superior driving dynamics, 3rd-Row Magic Seat® and efficient i-VTEC™ V-6 engine with three-mode Variable Cylinder Management™ (available) all combine to offer a sophisticated environment with room for up to eight people (seven on Odyssey LX). The Odyssey has been America's best-selling minivan since 2008(2) and is produced exclusively in Alabama by Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (using domestic and globally sourced parts). Both the concept and production vehicles, along with all development activity for the 2011 Odyssey, are being designed at Honda R&D Americas in Torrance, California, and Raymond, Ohio.

The Odyssey has won numerous awards and critical acclaim. Recent accolades include the Edmunds.com 2010 "Top Recommended" minivan award, U.S. News and World Report 2010 "Best Minivan for the Money" award, Automotive Lease Guide 2010 "Best Minivan for the Money," the Kelley Blue Book award as one of the ten "Best New Family Vehicles of 2009" and "2009 Best Resale Value Award" in the van category, which recognizes vehicles that are expected to have segment-leading resale value after five years of ownership.

Odyssey Concept Basic Dimensions

Length (inches)
202.8

Width (inches)
78.5

Height (inches)
68.3

Wheelbase (inches)
118.1

1Preliminary EPA mileage estimates determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

2Based on Odyssey calendar-year sales of 135,493 for 2008 and 100,133 for 2009.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/1097/releases/5375