Honda today reveals its 2014 Geneva Motor Show line-up, including the worldwide debut of the Civic Type R Concept model, the European debut of the Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) Concept, the powertrain layout of the new NSX and the 2014 Civic World Touring Car Championship race car.
Racing Car for the Road – Civic Type R Concept
Honda’s appearance at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show will lead with the worldwide reveal of the Civic Type R Concept model, providing the styling direction for the exterior design of the highly-anticipated production version that debuts in 2015. Dubbed by the design team as a ‘racing car for the road’, its bold and aggressive styling reflects the strong performance characteristics for which Type R is renowned.
Advanced Technology Leadership – FCEV Concept
Further underlining Honda’s leadership in the development of advanced technology, the FCEV Concept makes its first European appearance. Sleek and aerodynamic, the Concept points to the potential styling direction of Honda’s next-generation fuel cell electric vehicle which launches in the U.S. and Japan in 2015, followed by Europe.
Further Evolution – Honda NSX
Making its Motor Show debut, Honda will highlight the powertrain layout of the new NSX supercar. The model showcases the longitudinal, V6 direct injection engine with twin turbo, alongside Honda’s innovative 3 motor Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All Wheel Drive™) hybrid system.
Racing Spirit – 2014 Civic World Touring Car Championship livery
Following winning the Manufacturers’ Championship of the 2013 World Touring Car Championship, Honda will also reveal the livery of the 2014 Civic WTCC car. Additionally it will showcase its long history in Formula One with the RA271 that competed in 1964 making its debut in the German Grand Prix at the Nurburgring and the record-breaking turbo-charged RA168E engine which dominated the 1988 season.
The Honda Press Conference will take place at 14:15 CET on Tuesday 4th March on the Honda stand (4250).
RACING CAR FOR THE ROAD – CIVIC TYPE R CONCEPT
Bold and Aggressive, Styled to Reflect Performance
Honda’s appearance at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show will lead with the worldwide reveal of the Civic Type R Concept model, providing the styling direction for the exterior design of the hotly-anticipated production version that debuts in 2015. Its bold and aggressive styling reflects the strong performance credentials for which Type R is renowned.
Described by the design team as a ‘racing car for the road’ rather than a high performance version of a road car, the new Type R looks set to signal a new era for the marque- this model is set to be the most extreme Civic Type R yet. Its sleek and aerodynamic profile reflects a car designed for function and performance whilst maintaining the look of a road car and the distinctive character of Type R.
“Type R represents Honda’s racing spirit. It is built with a passion for motorsport.”
Masaru Hasegawa – Chief Stylist, Civic Type R
Styling is heavily linked to performance, with the Type R Concept showing its credentials in the exterior design. Many of the styling features offer real function, rather than just aesthetics, as confirmed by feedback from prototype testing at the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany. The need to reduce drag, add down-force, provide cooling and achieve optimum airflow, were key considerations for the design team.
The front spoiler is designed to add down-force, the vertical side wings and the cut out shape of the front bumper help to reduce drag and control airflow around the front tyres. A red stripe running along the front spoiler further accentuates the Type R’s low and wide stance.
Furthermore, the new headlight design with integrated LED daytime running lights and the sharp horizontal fog lights, add a strong character to the face of the Type R Concept. The upper and lower front grilles have been enlarged and air outlets on the bonnet provide cooling for the high output engine. The front and rear fenders have been widened to accommodate wide tyres and air outlets are integrated to optimise airflow.
One of the most stand-out advances on the Concept model is the new rear spoiler featuring LED tail lights integrated into the rear wing which accentuates the Type R’s futuristic look.
The shape and angle of the double rear wing has been designed to provide additional down-force, as a direct result of feedback gained through testing on the track.
Supporting the design direction are 20-inch wheels, edged by a red ring, with visible red brake callipers and a bright red stripe running along the bottom of the front spoiler. Such features add to the aggressive appearance which reflects the inspiring driving experience that the Type R promises to deliver.
Styling and modelling of the new Concept has been carried out in Europe, with the team based at Honda’s R&D centre in Swindon, UK. The design team maintained close contact with production colleagues, as they worked towards achieving the styling direction of the Concept model.
Building on Honda’s Pedigree for Turbo-Charged Engines
While further detail on performance is yet to be announced, Honda has confirmed that the forthcoming Type R will be the first model in Europe to feature one of its brand new VTEC TURBO engines from the Earth Dreams Technology range. The two-litre, direct injection, four-cylinder turbo is expected to deliver class-leading output of at least 280PS and will be EURO 6 compliant.
Turbo engines have not been seen in Honda’s production cars in Europe for some time, however, the company has continued to actively develop turbo technology, deploying it on the race track and in road cars in other regions. The 2013 WTCC season saw Honda successfully return to the track with the turbo-charged HR412E in the Civic; powering the Castrol Honda World Touring Car team and Zengo Motorsport team to become the Manufacturers’ Champion in Honda´s first full season.
Honda’s successful return to WTCC in 2013, has been instrumental in gathering knowledge that has helped shape the new Type R, providing the development team with analysis and feedback on performance and styling collected from the track to assist in the creation of a ‘racing car for the road’ from the Civic five-door.
The manufacturer’s long history in developing turbo engines for success on the track dates back decades, with one stand-out example being Honda’s turbo-charged RA168E used in Formula One. In the 1988 F1 season the RA168E powered Honda to set eight new records, including the most race victories (15 out of 16), the most Constructors points (199) and the most one-two finishes (10). The season also saw Honda take both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships for the second consecutive year.
Additionally, the 2013 American Le Mans Series saw Honda Performance Development and its teams dominate, with Scott Tucker taking his third consecutive drivers title in the ARX-03b. Powered by the Honda HR28TT twin-turbo V6 engine, the ARX-03b produces 450hp from 2800cc displacement. In the Japanese Super GT series, GT300 class, the CR-Z GT has used a turbo engine since 2013; while the 2014 NSX Concept –GT, in the GT500 class will feature a two-litre turbo engine coupled with hybrid technology.
Honda also continues to deploy turbo-charged engines in production cars in markets outside of Europe. The 1988 Legend introduced a 2.0-litre 24-valve V6 engine with a variable “Wing Turbo” that could regulate exhaust stream and efficiently utilise charging pressure. More recently, the Acura RDX launched in 2008 with a 2.3-litre 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine utilising i-VTEC intake valve control; combining Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) with Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™). With the variable flow turbocharger working in unison with i-VTEC, the RDX delivers strong power and torque, excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Rated output for the engine is 240 hp at 6000 rpm, with 260 lb-ft/352 Nm of torque at 4500 rpm.
Many smaller Honda models also utilise turbo engines in order to deliver a dynamic ride; for example, the 1982 City Turbo through to the successful N-ONE turbo model released in Japan, in 2012.
The unveiling of the new Type R Concept model follows Honda’s announcement at the Paris Motor Show in 2012, where it confirmed the return of the Civic Type R, with a commitment to setting new standards in performance and handling, with the application of technologies developed through its participation in the World Touring Car Championships. The company also announced its aim for the new Civic Type R to become the fastest front-wheel-drive vehicle to lap the Nurburgring.
The Civic Type R Concept model will appear on the Honda stand at Geneva Motor Show, in a vivid red with a gold highlight, a colour developed especially for this car, aiming to express its performance credentials and unique character.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY LEADERSHIP – FCEV CONCEPT
Further underlining Honda’s commitment to leadership in the development of advanced technology, the latest FCEV concept model makes its debut European appearance. Sleek and aerodynamic, the concept points to the potential styling direction of Honda’s next-generation fuel-cell electric vehicle which launches in the U.S. and Japan in 2015, followed by Europe.
Showcasing exciting and modern styling, the Honda FCEV Concept features sweeping character lines underscored by an ultra-aerodynamic body. It also delivers ample interior space and seating for five passengers, thanks to new powertrain packaging efficiencies.
Honda’s next generation FCEV will feature the world’s first application of a fuel-cell powertrain packaged completely in the engine room of the vehicle, allowing for efficiencies in cabin space as well as flexibility in the potential application of fuel-cell technology to multiple vehicle types in the future.
Significant technological advancements to the fuel-cell stack have yielded more than 100kW of power output, with power density now 3kW/L, an increase of 60 percent, and the stack size reduced by 33 percent, compared to the current FCX Clarity. The next-generation Honda FCEV is anticipated to deliver a driving range of approximately 700km, according to Japan cycle (JC-08 mode) with a quick refuelling time of around three minutes at 70 MPa.
“Building on twenty years of fuel-cell leadership with the FCX and FCX Clarity, the FCEV Concept sets the direction for our next-generation fuel-cell vehicle and for future improvements in electric-drive technology. While this car is a concept, it points towards a very real future.“
Thomas Brachmann – Fuel Cell Technology, Honda R&D Europe
For almost two decades Honda has led the development and deployment of fuel-cell technology through extensive real world testing, significant advancements in fuel-cell operation, and meeting stringent emissions and safety regulations.
In 2011, Honda joined the Clean Energy Partnership, the CEP is Europe’s leading fuel cell vehicle and hydrogen infrastructure demonstration project. More recently, Honda’s participation in the H2 Mobility Programmes in Germany and the UK demonstrate its commitment to synchronise the rollout of vehicles and hydrogen infrastructure.
Launched in Europe in 2008, Honda’s current fuel cell-electric vehicle, the FCX Clarity, was quickly heralded as a technological breakthrough in design, packaging and efficiency. As the world’s first dedicated fuel-cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity features a striking silhouette and a low-slung cabin. With the V-flow fuel-cell stack positioned down the centre of the vehicle and the electric motor located in the front, Honda was able to maintain the car’s futuristic styling while delivering a driving range of 240 miles.
Honda FCX Clarity Contribution in Europe:
- 2009- FCX Clarity promotion program throughout Europe
- June 2011- Honda joins CEP (Clean Energy Partnership) and H2 Demonstration Project in Germany. Support with 2 FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicles.
- September 2011- Opening of the first 70MPa and 35MPa public hydrogen station in Swindon, UK
- September- October 2012- “H2 Moves Scandinavia Road Tour” from Hamburg via Munich, Bolzano, Paris, Cardiff, Bristol, London, Copenhagen
- October 2012- Entering into Nordic MoU to prepare for H2 station and FCEV launch in Scandinavian countries
- October 2012- Joining the German H2 Mobility program to prepare for H2 station and FCEV deployment
- January 2014- Joining the UK H2 Mobility
FURTHER EVOLUTION – NSX CONCEPT
Also making its European debut at Geneva is the latest evolution of the NSX Concept, revealing a chassis layout with a longitudinal, V6, direct injection engine with twin turbo.
The forthcoming new NSX will feature Sport Hybrid Super Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), delivering a whole new level of both fuel economy and superior driving performance by combining a new mid-mounted V6 direct-injection twin turbo engine and an all-new dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
Utilising a unique two-motor Electric Motor Drive Unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system, the new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering, delivering far superior handling performance to previous AWD systems.
The SH-AWD system on the new NSX will have a mid-mounted powertrain, with the electric motors on the front wheels.
RACING SPIRIT
2014 Civic WTCC Livery
Following victory in the Manufacturers’ Championship of the 2013 World Touring Car Championship (WTCC), its first season of full participation as a factory works team, Honda will reveal the 2014 livery of the Castrol Honda WTCC Civic at the Geneva Motor Show.
Honda has recently confirmed that in the 2014 season the Castrol Honda World Touring Car Team will continue to compete with its Championship winning driver line-up of Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro; and that Honda will also provide the 2014 WTCC Civic to the private teams of Zengo Motorsport with Norbert Michelisz, and to Proteam Racing with Mehdi Bennani.
Honda’s First Formula One Car – the RA271
Honda is also using its appearance at the 2014 Geneva Show to showcase its long history in Formula One with the RA271, the first Honda to race in F1, which made its debut at the German Grand Prix at the Nurburgring in 1964.
Symbolising Honda’s challenging spirit, the RA271 featured an all-new chassis, with a light alloy panel design, replacing the obsolete space frame concept employed on the RA270F test car. Development of this state-of-the-art aluminium monochrome chassis took the team into new territory, leading them to consult textbooks on aircraft technology to support their efforts. A key priority was to ensure optimum stability and weight distribution once the engine was mounted, and so, drawing upon its expertise in motorcycle production, Honda took the innovative choice of installing the V12 engine transversely in the chassis.
Honda had originally planned to paint its first made-for-racing F1 car in gold, to match the RA270F prototype. However gold had been assigned to South Africa by the FIA, so Honda elected to finish the car in ivory white accented with a red rising sun on the cowling.
Honda’s Record-Breaking Turbo-Charged Engine – the RA168E
Completing Honda’s racing line-up will be the turbo-charged RA168E, which dominated the 1988 Formula One championship in the year that engine supply shifted from Williams to McLaren.
In this the last season of competing with turbo-charged engines Honda faced a huge challenge with regulation changes, which saw fuel tank capacity reduced to 150 litres and maximum boost pressure reduced to 2.5 bar. Rather than switching to a naturally-aspirated version, Honda fought on with a turbo-charged engine; reducing fuel consumption, boosting power output and reducing engine weight to just 146kg.
The RA168E went on to help Honda set eight new records in the 1988 season, including the most race victories (15 out of 16), the most Constructors points (199) and the most one-two finishes (10). The season also saw Honda take both the Constructors‘ and Drivers‘ Championships for the second consecutive year.
NEXT-GENERATION POWERTRAINS – HONDA CIVIC TOURER 1.6 I-DTEC
The lightest in class 1.6 i-DTEC engine first introduced in the Civic five-door, has recently been added to the new European Civic Tourer and CR-V models. This engine, the first engine from Honda’s next-generation Earth Dreams Technology series, offers an exceptional balance of power, performance and efficiency. The new Civic Tourer, CR-V and 2014 Civic five-door will appear at Geneva alongside several other models from Honda‘s current line-up.
Honda Civic Tourer 1.6 i-DTEC
Designed and developed in Europe, the British-built Civic Tourer 1.6 i-DTEC combines distinctive styling with a segment-leading mix of versatility, practicality and technology in a compact car with high fuel efficiency and surprisingly low running costs.
The frugal new 1.6 i-DTEC engine, along with innovations including the unique Eco Assist™ and Idle-Stop offers a competitive 120 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque, yet still delivers 3.8L/100km (74.33mpg) on the combined cycle, giving a range of 1,315 km (817 miles) on one tank of fuel and CO2 emissions starting from 99g/km.
The space inside the Tourer defies its dimensions. Despite being the lowest and most compact estate in the segment and just 235mm longer than the Civic five-door, the new Tourer offers a class-leading 624 litres of trunk space up to the tonneau cover; enough to accommodate four golf bags or three large suitcases and two flight cases. Additionally, utilising Honda’s unique Magic Seat system, the rear seats can be pulled down to create a completely flat load area with 1668 litres of capacity up to the roof lining; comfortably accommodating two full-sized mountain bikes with the front wheels removed.
The significant luggage space is cleverly supported by the Tourer’s newly developed rear Adaptive Damper System (ADS), a world first in a production car. The system automatically adjusts the rear suspension damping force to ensure optimum stability and comfort in varying load and driving conditions.
The new Civic Tourer is also available with a 1.8 i-VTEC petrol engine.
Comprehensive safety
Honda’s commitment to safety is embodied by the term ‘Safety for Everyone’; safety for drivers, passengers, pedestrians and occupants of other vehicles. Honda achieves this through a range of both passive and active safety features, which aim to prevent or mitigate accident and injuries. The new Civic Tourer and the 2014 Civic five-door feature Honda’s new suite of sensor-based Advanced Driving Assist Systems, which use a combination of cameras, short range lidar (Laser Radar) and radar technologies:
Advanced Driving Assist Systems
City-Brake Active System**
Specifically designed to help avoid or mitigate low speed accidents. City-Brake Active system is a laser radar system that scans the road ahead, automatically applying the brakes if an imminent risk of collision is detected. The system operates at low speeds (32km/h and below) and is designed to detect cars and trucks.
Blind Spot Information
Blind Spot Information uses radar technology to automatically detect vehicles in the driver’s blind spot and warn of potential dangers when the vehicle is travelling at speeds of more than 20km/h. The system is designed to detect cars and trucks and can help to support drivers in situations such as passing other vehicles and merging or changing lanes.
When a vehicle enters the driver’s blind spot a visual warning is displayed on the wing mirror. This remains until the vehicle leaves the blind spot. If the driver operates the indicator whilst the vehicle is in the blind spot, the visual warning will blink and an audible warning will sound to further alert the driver to the potential danger. The system can be turned off by the driver when the vehicle has stopped.
Cross Traffic Monitor
Honda’s Cross Traffic Monitor system uses rear side radar sensors to warn the driver of approaching vehicles when reversing. The direction of an approaching vehicle is shown either on the rear-view camera screen or displayed using arrows showing the direction of the travelling vehicle on the i-MID and an audible warning sound. The system is designed to detect cars and trucks travelling up to 25km/h, and can be turned off by the driver when the vehicle has stopped.
Adaptive Cruise Control**
Adaptive Cruise Control allows the driver to choose both their speed and distance from the vehicle ahead. If this falls below the set level, the system instantly decelerates the vehicle. Where quicker deceleration is required the system will alert the driver to apply the brakes using visual and audible warnings.
Collision Mitigation Braking System**
This system monitors the following distance and closing rate between the car and the vehicle (car or truck) directly in front of it, warning the driver when a collision is likely and helping reduce impact speed when a collision becomes unavoidable.
* Available on selected Grades
** City-Brake Active System and Collision Mitigation Braking System/ Adaptive Cruise Control are not available in conjunction with each other. NB
HONDA GENUINE ACCESSORIES
Honda Civic Black Edition pack
A special Civic Black Edition option pack goes on sale from May this year. The pack includes gloss black front skirts, side skirts, rear spoiler and a rear bumper garnish. This bold look is completed by integrated covers for the side mirrors and a gloss black fuel lid cover with Civic logo. An aluminium badge placed on the rear of the car features the Black Edition logo.
Optional 18” Nitrogen alloy wheels, as an upgrade on 17” standard wheels, complete the look. Featuring a split five spoke design, they come in a matte gunpowder black finish and a carbon-look centre cap.
Honda CR-V Special Edition Black
Available across Europe now, the CR-V also gets a makeover in the form of a Special Edition Black model featuring a range of enhancements for additional styling and practical functionality.
This pack includes a new patterned front grille, a tailgate spoiler, integrated running boards and front and rear skid plates. Metallic paint and satellite navigation are both offered as standard.
The new limited edition model shares the same specification as the current CR-V SE, with features including Dual Zone climate control, Bluetooth HFT, front and rear parking sensors and power folding door mirrors. This model also comes with 19 inch Orion alloy wheels, exhaust finisher and privacy glass.
Honda Civic Tourer Accessory Packs
New Honda Civic Tourer customers can choose from a wide variety of accessory packs and single options to personalise their car to suit their style, needs and preferences.
ACCESSORY PACKS
Sports Pack
For a more focused, road-holding look, the front, side and rear skirts come in a carbon-inspired finish to give an extra edge to the car’s dynamic profile. The look can be further enhanced with a set of optional 18” Hydrogen alloys, diamond cut, finished in a matte clear coat and featuring Rombo Silver windows.
Cargo Pack
Perfect for those frequently transporting luggage or specialised equipment, this pack offers a strong combination of storage solutions including a separation net, cargo room garnish, a trunk side net and a trunk tray with dividers; which also further the Civic Tourer’s class-leading load area.
Convenience Pack
A bespoke collection of accessories designed to protect the car from weathering and surface wear and tear. Features include doorstep garnishes, mudguards and body-coloured side body trims to protect against scrapes, mud and sand, plus the option of 17 inch Cobalt alloy wheels.
Aero Pack
A blend of aesthetic benefits including a front Aero bumper which reflects the car’s sporty look, while the rear skirt complements the front bumper perfectly. The look can be further enhanced with the option of five-spoke 17 or 18 inch Argon alloy wheels in a diamond cut surface with a matte clear coat, contrasted by gun powder black windows.
Design Pack
A wide range of stylish design details to personalise the Civic Tourer, including a tailgate decoration, sports tank lid, door mirror covers, air intake garnishes and a front sports grille, all in a matte metallic finish. Optional 18 inch Krypton alloy wheels can be added for further stand-out appeal.
SINGLE ACCESSORIES
Useful technology
Civic Tourer customers have the option of Honda SD navigation. With a 6.1inch WVGA touchscreen, the system offers fully functional navigation with voice commands and menus in 12 different languages. The multi-sensor navigation system accurately pinpoints your position, whilst the maps cover 34 different EU countries and can be updated via SD card. The system features Bluetooth HFT connectivity with integrated microphone and audio streaming.
Additionally, front and rear parking sensors are available, to make parking effortless.
Alloy wheels
Owners have the option of five alloy wheel designs:
- ‘Argon’ – 17 or 18 inch, featuring a Diamond cut A surface, matte clear coat and GunPowder Black windows
- ‘Cobalt’ – 17 inch, featuring a full coat Chrome Shadow with a clear coat
- ‘Radium’ – 17 inch, combining a Diamond cut A surface with a clear coat and Rombo Silver windows
- ‘Hydrogen’ – 18 inch, featuring Rombo Silver Windows and a carbon-look centre cap
- ‘Krypton’ – 18 inch, featuring Diamond cut A surface with a clear coat, black pearl windows and a carbon-look centre cap
Utility accessories
Several utility accessories are available to further enhance the versatility of the new Civic Tourer. One option is a fixed or detachable trailer hitch to match the car’s bodywork; adding practicality and making the most of towing capacity. The detachable version features a foldable socket plate which is out of sight when not in use.
Additionally, roof cross bars together with a choice of attachments allow owners to carry everything from skis to bicycles and extra luggage, creating more space and comfort for passengers. The option of a dog guard will keep luggage and pets safe and secure within the boot. Made from powder-coated durable steel, it can be easily fitted and removed.
Finally, for an additional aesthetic touch, a tailgate decoration, available in either black or matte metallic silver, fits under the lower rear window and partly covers the car’s tailgate.
