Honda aAt The Paris Motor Show

Honda reveals the new European CR-V at the Paris Motor Show 2012 with the announcement that the new CR-V will be offered with Honda’s new 1.6-litre i-DTEC engine. The new smaller diesel engine is the first in a series of engines to be introduced in Europe under the name of Earth Dreams Technology. The 1.6-litre i-DTEC engine will be available on the Civic later this year and the CR-V from September 2013 with production at Honda’s UK factory in Swindon.

The application of new high-strength material in the cylinder head has enabled Honda to deliver the world’s lightest aluminium open deck 1.6-litre diesel engine. These lightweight characteristics support an agile handling of the car, along with the compact high-efficiency turbocharger, enhance responsiveness and ensure the car will offer a class-leading balance of fuel economy and performance.

The 2013 CR-Z hybrid makes its debut at Paris Motor Show. Subtle revisions to the exterior and interior enhance the styling of the car whilst the power of both the petrol engine and electric motor has been increased without comprising fuel economy or increasing exhaust emissions. The car also features a Lithium Ion battery for the first time. The revised CR-Z will go on sale in January 2013.

The production launch of the new European CR-V took place at the beginning of September and was celebrated as part of a new £267 million investment programme into new models and engines at Honda’s manufacturing plant in Swindon, UK. The new investment which will take Honda’s total spend at Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) to over £1.5 billion supports the production launch of the new Civic (December 2011), the new CR-V (September 2012) and the new 1.6-litre diesel engine (December 2012). 500 new Associates have already been recruited and trained to manufacture the new products, taking the total workforce to 3,500.

This year, Honda celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Civic which was first introduced in 1972. Since then sales have exceeded 20 million units worldwide. Popular for being affordable, comfortable and fun to drive, the Civic has always been at the forefront of engine development showcasing engineering breakthroughs such as Honda’s Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion (CVCC) engine in 1972 and the DOHC VTEC, introduced in 1987, which was the first engine in the world to electronically control both valve timing and lift. Honda is marking this anniversary by displaying an original first generation Civic at the Paris Motor Show alongside the latest generation Civic.

The Civic WTCC race car is displayed on Honda’s stand at the Paris Motor Show following the announcement that Honda will compete in the full 2013 FIA World Touring Car Championship. Driving for Honda will be Italian Gabriele Tarquini and Portuguese Tiago Monteiro.

The Civic WTCC car utilises the HR412E engine which is a completely bespoke 1.6-litre 4 cylinder direct injection turbo-charged petrol engine, fully conforming to FIA regulations for the WTCC. The engine was developed at Honda’s R&D centre in Tochigi, Japan and heralds a new generation of high performance racing engines from Honda.

THE NEW CR-V

Efficient, functional and confident

The new fourth generation CR-V makes its European debut at the Paris Motor Show 2012. Building on its success of its predecessors, the new CR-V has improved quality, practicality and refinement. For the first time in Europe, the compact SUV will be offered with a choice of both two- and four-wheel drive, while improvements to both the petrol and diesel engines have resulted in a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. Comprehensively redesigned for the European market, the new CR-V will be built at Honda’s production facility in Swindon, UK from early September, 2012.

The newcomer is instantly recognisable as a member of the CR-V family but asserts its own identity. The prominent three-bar grille and deep-set headlights continue the introduction of Honda’s new "Y" shaped ‘face’, while the vertically stacked taillights have been a CR-V signature since the first generation (1995-2001). Stylish additions to the European model include a revised front bumper, front LED daytime running lights and rear LED lights with a three-dimensional design.

Inside, the fascia features a number of horizontal layers that emphasise the feeling of space. The major controls are grouped according to their function with a ‘driver interface zone’ behind the steering wheel and an ‘information interface zone’ in the centre of the cabin.

The height of the car has been reduced by 30 mm compared with the current model, without reducing the interior space for the occupants. This represents the successful application of Honda’s man-maximum, machine-minimum philosophy. The introduction of easy fold-down rear seats has also made it possible to transform the CR-V from a five-seater to a versatile load-lugger at the pull of a handle.

Under the bonnet of the CR-V, customers will find either a 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine or a 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel. Both are developments of the engines found in the third generation CR-V but both have been comprehensively redesigned with a focus on reducing CO2 emissions. For example, the diesel model with a manual gearbox, now emits just 149 g/km of CO2. This represents a 12% reduction compared with the previous generation of CR-V, despite maintaining the same power output of 150 PS.

The CR-V will also be offered with Honda’s new 1.6-litre i-DTEC engine as a two-wheel drive model from September 2013.The first drivetrain from Honda’s new Earth Dreams Technology engine series to be introduced in Europe, it will be built at Honda’s manufacturing facility in the UK. The application of new high-strength material in the cylinder head has enabled Honda to deliver the world’s lightest aluminium open deck 1.6-litre diesel engine. These lightweight characteristics, along with the compact, high-efficiency turbocharger, will reduce response times and provide an impressive blend of performance and economy.

The new CR-V has been tested extensively in Europe and the McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension has been tuned for enhanced ride comfort and high speed stability. Motion Adaptive electric power steering (MA-EPS) has also been introduced, combining easy manoeuvrability with increased feedback and response at higher speeds. Petrol-engined models can be supplied with front wheel drive but most CR-Vs sold will continue to use Honda’s Real Time AWD system, which is now electronically activated for improved efficiency.

The new CR-V also features a comprehensive range of safety equipment designed to help the driver avoid or mitigate an accident, or to protect the occupants should a crash become unavoidable.

Honda’s Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) continue to be a part of CR-V’s safety equipment, and now for the first time on the CR-V they are complemented by Honda’s Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS). In addition the new CR-V features Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure, a well-established part of Honda’s safety arsenal and is designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision and divert it away from the passenger compartment. The CR-V also comes with front, side and curtain airbags.

Efficient, functional and confident, the fourth generation CR-V builds on the success of its predecessors, of which over five million have been sold. "If you want to improve a vehicle that is already well balanced and respected, the only solution is to enhance that vehicle in every area while making it more efficient than ever before," says Large Project Leader Ryouji Nakagawa. "That is what we have done with the new CR-V."

To find out more information about the new CR-V including specifications, please go to
//www.honda-crv.eu

CIVIC 1.6L I-DTEC

1.6 i-DTEC on Civic achieves CO2 emissions of just 94 g/km^*

Shown for the first time at Paris Motor Show, Honda has introduced a new 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine in the Civic hatchback. The first engine in Europe to feature Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, it combines strong performance (120 PS) with CO2 emissions of only 94 g/km^*.

The key to the engine’s success is its lightweight technology. The use of an open deck aluminium block helps to reduce the mass of the engine by 58 kg compared with the 2.2-litre i-DTEC, making it the lightest diesel engine in its class. Reducing the weight of the engine helps reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, while also making a valuable contribution to the driving dynamics. In addition, engine parts have been optimised to reduce the internal friction to a level equivalent of a petrol engine, delivering outstanding refinement.

A compact, high-efficiency turbocharger and a high-swirl head port work together to provide impressive performance. The 1.6-litre i-DTEC generates 120 PS at 4000 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 2000 rpm.

The fuel economy is also impressive. The efficiency of the engine coupled with other standard environmental technologies such as Idle Stop, helps the Civic achieve a combined consumption of 3.6L/100km^* and CO2 emissions of just 94 g/km^*.

^* All figures for 16"wheel size.

2013 CR-Z

137 PS for the Revised Sporty CR-Z Hybrid

Honda has updated the sporty CR-Z hybrid with a range of improvements focusing on style and performance. The 2013 CR-Z hybrid makes its debut at Paris Motor Show. Subtle revisions to the exterior and interior enhance the styling of the car whilst the power of both the petrol engine and electric motor has been increased without comprising fuel economy or increasing exhaust emissions. The car also features a Lithium Ion battery for the first time. The revised CR-Z will go on sale in January 2013.

The 2013 CR-Z can be identified by a range of styling upgrades that emphasise the coupe’s sporty appeal. Style conscious motorists will appreciate the CR-Z’s new front bumper design, which frames a revised grille. This is complemented at the rear by a new aerodynamic diffuser design, while striking 17inch alloy wheels fill the wheel arches of the GT model. Two bold new colours, Energetic Yellow and Aurora Violet, further enhance the CR-Z’s stylish looks.

Honda has updated the hybrid’s interior by introducing a new material for the seats and door lining and a new colour scheme. Revisions to the door casings improve cabin storage, while new LED lights create a high quality feel at night. On GT models, the sporty appeal of the cabin is further enhanced by the addition of red detailing on the steering wheel, gear knob, seat and door trim.

The CR-Z’s 1.5-litre petrol engine has been updated with changes to the variable valve timing system and Engine Control Unit (ECU). An anti-vibration knock sensor has been introduced and the material of the crankshaft has been upgraded. The peak power output has been increased from 114 PS to 121 PS.

The electric motor system has also been improved. The change from a Nickel-metal hybrid (Ni-MH) to a Lithium Ion battery has been accompanied by an increase in power from 14 PS (10 kW) to 20 PS (15 kW).

Working in unison, the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system now delivers a combined output of 137 PS at 6600 rpm (+13 PS) and 190 Nm of torque (+16 Nm). The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint time falls from 9.7 sec to 9.0 sec and top speed is 200 km/h (124 mph). The combined consumption is 5.0 l/km (56.5 mpg) and 116 g/km of CO2.^*

^* All figures for 2013 CR-Z S Model

To help the driver make the best use of this sporty performance, Honda has introduced a Plus Sport (S+) boost system. If the battery is more than 50% charged, the driver can activate this system using the S+ button on the steering wheel. When the accelerator is pressed the electric boost begins, delivering increased acceleration for up to ten seconds. A flashing gauge on the dashboard indicates when the system is active. S+ can be used in ECON, Normal or Sport modes.

The revisions to the 2013 CR-Z enhance its sporty appeal without compromising its impressive fuel economy and low exhaust emissions. The result is a car with a desirable combination of style, performance and driving pleasure.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

^* Combined power and torque figures are not the sum of the maximum figures for engine and motor. Because the engine and motor generate their peak figures at different rev ranges, the maximum figure is less than the two peaks and this gives a better spread of power and torque.

HONDA EV-STER

Honda exhibits the EV-STER, next-generation electric small sports concept model at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

Featuring dynamic and innovative styling and excellent environmental performance, the EV-STER, an electric rear-wheel-drive two-seater convertible sports car, suggests a new way to enjoy a sports car that is unique to the electric vehicles. The adoption of carbon materials throughout the EV-STER made it possible to reduce the vehicle weight delivering high performance driving and an extensive range of approximately 160 km.

The easy-to-operate twin-lever steering system was adopted in the pursuit of the joy of driving. Moreover, this concept model enables the driver to make adjustments to many of the vehicle characteristics such as motor output and suspension settings, to embody the joy of driving to the fullest extent.

The instrument panel of the EV-STER features a vehicle information display which provides the driver with an interface that accesses a network display used for the audio and navigation systems and also for using the internet. The thoughtfully designed layout of the meters and displays enables the driver to concentrate on driving and enjoy the comfortable space.

Honda remains committed to developing sports models beyond the expectations of its customers and offering exciting and thrilling mobility products.

PRODUCTION OF EUROPEAN CR-V BEGINS AS PART OF NEW £267 MILLION INVESTMENT PROGRAMME INTO UK PLANT

The production launch of the new European CR-V took place at the beginning of September and was celebrated as part of a new £267 million investment programme into new models and engines at Honda’s manufacturing plant in Swindon, UK.

The new investment which will take Honda’s total spend at Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) to over £1.5 billion supports the production launch of the new Civic (December 2011), the new CR-V (September 2012) and the new 1.6-litre diesel engine (December 2012).

500 new Associates have already been recruited and trained to manufacture the new products, taking the total workforce to 3,500.

By the end of the year, production at the Swindon plant is forecast to have doubled on last year’s figure – up to 183,000 units. Honda aims to increase that figure to 250,000 units per year within 3 years.

Commenting on the new investment, Honda Motor Europe President, Manabu Nishimae said, "We are entering an exciting period of numerous product launches and these new products will be produced here in Europe, at our UK manufacturing plant. HUM will be the cornerstone of our European operations."

CIVIC HERITAGE

Honda Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of the Civic

This year, Honda celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Civic which was first introduced in 1972. Since then sales have exceeded 20 million units worldwide. Popular for being affordable, comfortable and fun to drive, the Civic has always been at the forefront of engine development showcasing engineering breakthroughs. Honda is marking this anniversary by displaying an original first generation Civic at the Paris Motor Show alongside the latest generation Civic.

1st Generation (1972-1979)
The Civic was launched as Honda’s vision of an affordable yet comfortable and fun to drive car. It was the first car in the world to pass the pioneering US ‘Muskie’ Clean Air Act and achieved the highest fuel economy ratings issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency for four successive years.

2nd Generation (1979-1983)
Sales of the Civic passed the 2.5 million milestone. 3, 4 and 5-door versions were sold in all the major markets and engines ranged from 1.3 to 1.5-litres. The CVCC engine was further developed for even higher combustion efficiency and a catalytic converter was also added.

3rd Generation (1983-1987)
The ‘Wonder Civic’ evolved around a design concept called ‘Man-Maximum, Machine Minimum’, with the customer as the focus and served by the vehicle.

4th Generation (1987-1991)
This Civic saw the introduction of four-valve-per-cylinder engines across all models. For the first time the double wishbone suspension system used on the Accord and Prelude was incorporated front and rear for excellent stability and handling. The DOHC VTEC was the first engine in the world to electronically control both valve timing and lift.

5th Generation (1991-1995)
Aerodynamics and economy were key elements behind the 5th generation Civic. The engine line-up included 1.3, 1.4, 1.5 and 1.6-litre units. The acclaimed VTEC technology was also applied to the SOHC engine, thus further enhancing the balance between fuel economy and performance. Further developments came with VTEC-E which was geared towards improved fuel efficiency. Civic production passed the 10 million mark during this period.

6th Generation (1995-2000)
This Civic was a top seller with over 3.2 million units built. Available in 2, 3, 4, and 5-door variants the 6th generation engine choice included the Civic’s first diesel – a 2.0-litre. The petrol choice was between 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.8-litre capacities. The possibility of improving engine output without adversely affecting fuel consumption was clearly demonstrated by the three-stage VTEC engine. CVT transmission offered stepless, automatic gear changing for the first time.

7th Generation (2000-2005)
2 million 7th generation Civics were produced between 2000 and 2005, featuring a more spacious interior, a totally new flat floor and a dashboard-mounted gear lever. By coupling VTEC with VTC (Variable Timing Control), Honda engineers created better performing engines. Growing environmental concerns led to the creation of the Civic IMA (Integrated Motor Assist). An electric motor coupled to a frugal i-DSI engine generated something very unique: a 1.3-litre engine with fuel efficiency similar to a 1.0-litre engine and with the performance of a 1.6-litre engine. This generation saw Honda introduce their first Civic Hybrid, powered by a 1.3-litre engine. In terms of safety the Civic had been awarded the highest ever score by Euro NCAP for pedestrian safety (old protocol).

8th Generation 2006-2011
For the 8th generation Honda split the model into two different platforms, one primarily for the home market and North America and the other designed for the European market. The European version featured a 1.8-litre i-VTEC, a 1.4-litre i-DSI and the 2.0-litre Type R engine as well as the powerful and economical 2.2-litre diesel engine. It excelled in combining good handling and performance with a spacious interior and impressive fuel efficiency.

In 2009 the Civic was updated with a fresh look, a new, economical 1.4-litre i-VTEC engine and bespoke automatic transmission.

9th Generation 2012- current
Launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011, the 9th generation is the latest Civic featuring the 2.2 i-DTEC, 1.8 i-VTEC and 1.4 i-VTEC. The Civic 5 door was rated one of Europe‘s safest cars earlier this year according to new independent crash testing results from Euro NCAP which rated the Civic a maximum of 5-star rating. In addition, Euro NCAP have announced that they are extending Honda’s Advanced NCAP reward for its Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) technology to include the new Civic.
Since 1972, more than 20million Civics have been sold worldwide.

HONDA CIVIC WTCC RACE CAR

Honda shows off the new Civic WTCC Race Car

Honda showcases the new Civic WTCC Race Car with its racing engine, the HR412E at the Paris Motor Show. The car will compete in the 2013 FIA World Touring Car Championship.

For this project, Honda has formed a joint partnership with Mugen and J.A.S. Motorsport. Mugen will manufacture a bespoke racing engine developed by Honda R&D and will maintain the engine in every race along with the team.

J.A.S. Motorsport will develop the race car, using the new Honda Civic 5-door produced in Honda’s manufacturing plant located in Swindon, UK.

Developed at Honda’s R&D centre in Tochigi, Japan, the HR412E is a completely bespoke 1.6-litre 4 cylinder direct injection turbo-charged petrol engine, fully conforming to FIA regulations for the WTCC.

Commenting on the announcement, Daisuke Horiuchi, the WTCC Development Project Leader at Honda R&D said: "In the continuous technological development of an internal combustion engine, the thermal efficiency is the essential key for improvement. And a race engine is not an exception. This HR412E was born from such thought process: aiming for higher efficiency.

The HR412E heralds a new generation of high performance racing engines from Honda. All engineers at the R&D centre in Tochigi have worked hard to develop a race engine that will deliver great driveability to our racing drivers, with no compromise on peak power performance.

We believe the innovations that have led to this revolutionary engine will also lead to benefits beyond the race track, helping us to further increase the efficiency of our road car engines."

The engine has been delivered to the J.A.S. Motorsport workshop in Milan, Italy, where the Civic WTCC is being developed, and successfully passed all initial tests.

The news follows the recent naming of Honda’s works team drivers in the the FIA World Touring Car Championship – Italian Gabriele Tarquini and Portuguese Tiago Monteiro.

Honda will enter the WTCC as early as this season with one car. Behind the wheel of the Civic WTCC will be ex-Formula One driver Tiago Monteiro, who will compete in three races, starting at Suzuka in October 2012. Honda R&D and Mugen will provide trackside support to the team.

Both drivers will compete in the full FIA World Touring Car Championship in 2013.

Racing has always been a fundamental element of Honda’s DNA . In the late 1950s Honda first entered the Isle of man T.T and then Formula 1 in the 1960s. The FIA WTCC is the next chapter in Honda’s on-going commitment to world motor sport and provides a perfect platform to demonstrate its racing spirit to Honda’s numerous fans around the world.