Airbag Technology Earns Honda Engineer the Highest Safety Engineering Excellence Award from U.S. Government

Honda safety engineer Eric Heitkamp today received the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Department of Transportation for his work in leading the creation of a groundbreaking front passenger airbag design.  Heitkamp accepted the U.S. Government Award for Safety Engineering Excellence at the 2023 Enhanced Safety of Vehicles (ESV) conference in Yokohama, Japan. Designed to decrease the chance of serious brain injury, the new passenger front airbag technology is now standard equipment in the Acura MDX, Acura TLX and Honda Pilot.

The U.S. Government Awards for Safety Engineering Excellence recognize individuals who have made exceptional scientific contributions in the field of motor vehicle safety engineering and for distinguished service to the motoring public. This is the 2nd consecutive excellence award won by a U.S.-based Honda engineer, with Sue Bai recognized at the 2019 ESV conference, the last time these awards were presented, for industry-leading efforts in connected vehicle technology.

Almost half a million Hondas and Acuras recalled for Fuel Pumps

Honda recalling more than 437,000 model year 2016-2018 Acura MDX, 2015-2019 Acura TLX and 2015-2017 Honda Accord vehicles equipped with 3.5-liter V6 engines.

Honda says sodium particulates that can be found in gasoline can stick to internal components in the fuel pumps, increasing resistance in the pumps and causing reduced performance. The pumps can be affected to the point the engines stall without warning while driving in areas of high ambient temperatures.

The automaker plans to fix the problem by updating the software for the fuel injection engine control unit. Some dealership may even replace the fuel pumps.

If you own a 2016-2018 Acura MDX, 2015-2019 Acura TLX or 2015-2017 Honda Accord, you may call 888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is P3W and Honda's recall number is N3X.

Honda EV-STER Concept

TOKYO, Japan, November 30, 2011 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will exhibit the world premiere of the EV-STER, the next-generation electric small sports concept model, at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, which will take place at Tokyo Big Sight from Saturday, December 3 through Sunday, December 11, 2011.

Featuring a dynamic and innovative styling design and excellent environmental performance, the EV-STER, an electric rear-wheel-drive two-seater convertible sports car, will propose a new way to enjoy a sports type model which is unique to the electromotive mobility. The adoption of carbon materials made it possible to reduce the vehicle weight contributing to the vehicle's high driving performance and range of approximately 160km. The easy-to-operate twin-lever steering was adopted for the thorough pursuit of the joy of driving. Moreover, the new concept model enables the driver to make his/her own adjustments to some vehicle characteristics such as motor output and suspension settings, to embody the joy of maneuvering to the fullest extent.

Furthermore, the instrument panel features not only meters, but also the vehicle information display which enables the driver to enjoy driving as well as the network display used for the audio and navigation systems and also for the internet access. The well-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.

Key specifications of the EV-STER
Vehicle length 3,570mm
Vehicle width 1,500mm
Vehicle height 1,100mm
Wheelbase 2,325mm
Maximum speed 160km/h
Acceleration (0-60km/h) 5.0 sec
Maximum range Approximately 160km (JC08 mode)
Battery 10kWh lithium-ion battery
Maximum battery output 58kW
Charging time 200V: under 3 hours / 100V: under 6 hours

Honda Announces "Earth Dreams Technology"

"Earth Dreams Technology" is a next generation set of technological advancements which greatly enhance both driving performance and fuel efficiency at a high level, using as its base advanced environmental technologies to pursue the joy of driving unique to Honda. It is a series of measures in which efficiency of internal combustion components including engine, and transmission, as well as electric-powered motor technology, is further improved.

Through its implementation first in the mini-vehicle N BOX and gradually onto other vehicle models, Honda aims to achieve top-of-industry fuel efficiency for every category within three years, while simultaneously setting a timeline of 2020 to reduce by 30% CO2 emissions for all products sold worldwide, relative to emission figures for 2000.

Inspiration of the "Earth Dreams Technology" name: "Earth Dreams Technology" is an expression for a set of technologies which takes into account both our need to protect the environment and our desire to provide a joy of driving.

Summary of key features

1. Gasoline engine which achieves top-of-industry driving performance and fuel efficiency

• By enhancing Honda's original VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System) technology to thoroughly improve thermal efficiency and minimize friction, a combination of high output and fuel efficiency was achieved. Further, a new engine series employing a new structure for higher expandability was developed.
• By gradually renewing the engine starting with the mini-vehicle N BOX, Honda aims to utilize this technology to achieve top-of-industry output and fuel efficiency in every vehicle class within three years.
• A wide range of engine classes including the 660cc, 1.3L, 1.5L, 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.4L, and 3.5L classes will feature the technology.

• [ 660cc class engine ]

• Employs DOHC and VTC (Variable Timing Control) to improve intake efficiency. Further, the compact combustion chamber realizes high thermal efficiency.
• By shortening the bore pitch compared to the present engine models and reducing the thickness of the cylinder block and camshaft, engine weight is reduced by 15%^*3 and fuel efficiency is improved by 10%^*3.

• [ 1.3 to 1.5L class engine ]

• Employs VTC, direct injection technology and the Atkinson cycle using the DOHC, VTEC technologies as the base.
• Extensive friction reduction measures are implemented.

• [ 1.8 to 2.0L class engine ]

• Employs direct injection technology and the Atkinson cycle using the DOHC, VTEC technologies as the base. Further, implementation of VTC and high-capacity EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) to both the intake and exhaust ports realizes significantly reduced friction.
• For the 2.0L class hybrid vehicle engines, use of an electric water pump eliminates the need for a belt in the auxiliary device and contributes to a reduction in friction. The VTC system allows fuel-efficient driving in various driving styles.

• [ 2.4L class engine ]

• Based on the DOHC and VTEC technologies, it employs VTC and direct injection technology and implements extensive friction reduction measures.
• Standalone engine features 5%^*3 improvements in fuel efficiency and output as well as a 10%^*3 improvement in maximum torque compared to the previous engine.

• [ 3.5L class engine ]

• Employs new valve train mechanisms and direct injection technology in the SOHC, VTEC, VMC systems to improve by over 10%^*3 of fuel efficiency and 5%^*3 of output, relative to the present standalone engine model.

2. A compact diesel engine which realizes the world's lightest body^*1, top-of-class^*1 acceleration performance and fuel efficiency.

• Through optimizing engine rigidity and combustion pressure, an aluminum open deck for the cylinder block was enabled in this top-of-industry lightweight^*1 1.6L class diesel engine.
• By downsizing from the present 2.2L engine and extensively reducing mechanical friction in each section, a friction level equivalent to present gasoline engine models was achieved.
• Optimized thermal management system thanks to improvements in the cooling system reduces CO₂ output by over 15%^*3.
• Employment of a compact, high-efficiency turbocharger and weight reduction in the reciprocating sliding section realizes a sporty and nimble ride.

3. CVT which combines at a high level the fun of driving and fuel efficiency.

• Three CVT structures for mini, compact, and mid-size vehicle classes are newly developed to be adopted for a variety of engine models.
• Reinforced belt is used to realize a structure for which a wide ratio range can be set.
• Implementation of analysis technology over the contact behavior between the belt and pulley, and a high-precision hydraulic control system allows for continual optimization of hydraulic pressure to the pulley under a variety of driving conditions, contributing to improved fuel efficiency.
• Use of an electronic oil pump to realize an idle stop system with high response contributes significantly to improved usability and fuel efficiency.
• "G-Design Shift", a new coordinated control system for shift transmission, throttle, and hydraulic control responds quickly to driver demands and realizes an exhilarating, sporty drive with superior acceleration.
• In the mini-vehicle class, a control mechanism and innovations in axle placement to reduce the engine size lengthwise, while a reduction in parts by simplifying the transmission casing structure helps realize a lightweight and compact body.
• For the compact and mid-size classes, in addition to the reductions in size and weight, transmission efficiency was greatly improved by expanding the ratio range to achieve fuel efficiency improvements of 5%*3 and 10%*3 compared to the conventional CVT and comparable 5ATs, respectively.

4. A two-motor hybrid system which realizes top-of-industry efficiency^*1

• A two-motor hybrid system featuring top-of-industry efficiency^*1 enhancing driving performance and reduced CO₂ emissions has been newly developed.
• Special lithium-ion battery and charger is employed to enable mounting on plug-in hybrid vehicles.
• Mid-sized vehicles equipped with this system are scheduled to begin production, starting with the plug-in hybrid model in 2012 and the hybrid model in 2013.
• Three driving modes allowing for top-of-industry efficiency^*1 for various driving environments were developed; an "EV driving mode" for urban environments, a "hybrid driving mode" using electricity generated by the motor, and a "engine-connected driving mode" where the engine and tires are mechanically connected during high-speed cruising.
• Combination with a high-output 120kW motor allows for superior environmental performance and driving enjoyment.

5. A high-efficiency, high output electric SH-AWD hybrid system which combines superior driving and environmental performance.

• A new hybrid system, electric SH-AWD, was developed for large-sized vehicles. By combining a 3.5L, V6 engine with this hybrid system, acceleration equivalent to V8 engines, as well as fuel efficiency equal or superior to in-line 4-cylinder engines were realized.
• An electric 4WD system with independent 20kW+ motors on both sides for the rear wheels combines a 7-speed dual clutch transmission system with a built-in 30kW+ high-efficiency motor with the engine.
• By mounting a high-performance lithium-ion battery and optimally controlling the front and rear motors, a new hybrid system with high fuel efficiency and output was realized.
• By mounting two independent motors in the rear and employing a newly developed bilateral torque adjustable control system, incredibly tight cornering just like driving "on-the-rail" is realized. With this mechanism, Honda strives to provide a stable ride for various driving environments.

6. A compact, high efficiency electric powertrain for EVs.

• Thanks to the high efficiency coaxial motor, low-friction gearbox and electric servo brake system, the system realizes the highest electrical consumption capability in the world^*1, meeting the required AC consumption rate of 29kWh/100mile(116MPGe) as set forth by the United States.
• A traveling distance of 123 miles^*2(LA-4mode: unadjusted) or 210km^*2(JC08 mode) was achieved thanks to the mounting of a high capacity lithium-ion battery.
• When using the 240V U.S. electric source, a full charge takes less than 3 hours. (From the time a low-charge signal is lit till full charge)
• By offering three driving modes (SPORT, NORMAL, ECON), the driver can freely select from a number of options to meet the needs of various driving styles such as power-saving or sporty drive.

*1 Honda internal research (as of November 30, 2011)

*2 Honda calculations

*3 Compared to Honda products

 

Source: Honda World News

Honda HSV

So what's this Honda HSV 10GT that everyone is talking about?

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will compete in the GT500 class of the 2010 Super GT Series with its HSV-010 GT. “HSV” stand for Honda Sports Velocity and was based on the cancelled NSX's replacement. The HSV-010 GT was developed exclusively for and conforms to the 2010 GT500 Regulations. The vehicle includes a 3.4-liter V8 engine that produces over 500 bhp mated to a Ricardo gearbox and with an FR layout.

Let's take a look at it in action:



Looks like an awesome sport's car! Maybe when the time is right, Honda will release it for the general public to buy.

Honda's Official Super GT Site.

2002-2003 Acura TL Recall

An existing safety recall of the driver's airbag in certain 2001 Honda Accords and Civics due to a potential defect in the airbag's inflation system is being expanded to include more vehicles, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. Originally initiated in November 2008, approximately 440,000 additional vehicles are included in the expanded recall, which will require the replacement of the driver's steering-wheel-mounted airbag inflator.
In some vehicles, airbag inflators can produce over-pressurization of the driver's (front) airbag inflator mechanism during airbag deployment. If an affected inflator deploys, the increased internal pressure may cause the inflator casing to rupture. Metal fragments could pass through the cloth airbag cushion material, possibly causing an injury or fatality to vehicle occupants.
Registered owners of vehicles that potentially contain affected inflators will receive a recall notice in the mail over the next few months, with the owners of vehicles most likely to include a problem airbag being contacted first. The recall notice will include further instructions to help schedule a repair to each vehicle. Interested owners may confirm their vehicle's recall status by visiting the Honda "Owner Link" website at www.owners.honda.com/recalls or the Acura "My Acura" website at www.owners.acura.com/recalls. Only certain vehicles are affected, and concerned owners of 2001-2002 Accords, 2001 Civics and 2002-2003 Acura TLs are encouraged to wait to receive a recall notice in the mail before scheduling an appointment with their local dealer.
For more information and downloadable high-resolution images of Honda and Acura vehicles, please visit www.hondanews.com and www.acuranews.com. Consumers can verify their vehicle's recall status by visiting www.owners.honda.com/recalls for Honda vehicles and www.owners.acura.com/recalls for Acura vehicles.

Honda Considers Layoffs And Moving Headquarters?

Takeo Fukui, Honda's CEO said, "If we go beyond (100 yen), we would simply have to transfer more production overseas, cut more temporary workers and even start laying off permanent jobs. Beyond that we could switch to importing more cars into Japan, bring research and development facilities overseas, and in an extreme scenario move our headquarters offshore. It would cause nothing short of a hollowing out of Japanese industry."

[Source]

Takeo Fukui is 2009 AUTOMOBILE MAGAZINE Man of the Year

Honda's president and CEO, Takeo Fukui, is the 2009 AUTOMOBILE MAGAZINE Man of the Year. Fukui's path to Honda's presidency has seen him move through many of the arenas that are important to the company: R&D, motorsports, and manufacturing. "In an era when platinum-paid executives rarely deviate from the orthodoxy of the crowd, Honda's Takeo Fukui has successfully avoided faddish trends and instead stayed true to the founding principles of Soichiro Honda and his successors." - AutomobileMag.com

Acura Wins Luxury Brand Residual Value Award

Automotive Lease Guide (ALG) has announced its 10^th annual Residual Value Awards, honoring the vehicles in each segment that are predicted to retain the highest percentage of their original price after a conventional three-year lease term. The awards are based on 2009 model year vehicles.

For the sixth consecutive year, American Honda Motor Company, Inc. has won the Industry Brand Residual Value Award. Honda also received individual segment awards for the Accord in the Midsize Car category, and the Honda Fit in the Compact Car category.

In addition, Acura, Honda’s luxury division, has won the overall Luxury Brand Residual Value Award for the first time. Although Acura does not have any segment winners, all of its vehicles’ residual values are relatively strong, with the new TL and TSX ranking among the highest in their segments.

Luxury Brand Residual Value Rankings:
1 ACURA
2 LEXUS
3 AUDI
4 INFINITI
5 LAND ROVER
6 BMW
7 PORSCHE
8 MERCEDES BENZ

Only brands above the luxury average were ranked. Below luxury average were the following brands (listed in alphabetical order): Cadillac, Jaguar, Lincoln, Saab and Volvo.

Full details: https://www.alg.com/Newsroom?pid=92

Auto-Max Railcar Fleet

Honda has fully deployed its fleet of Auto-Max® railcars, achieving a significant reduction in the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions associated with its automobile distribution activities in the United States. The 400-car fleet of more space-efficient Auto-Max railcars is the only such automaker-operated fleet in use in the United States. Including the Auto-Max fleet shipments, American Honda currently transports about 82 percent of its Honda and Acura automobiles across the country by rail, achieving the highest rail-shipping rate of any automaker.

Each multi-level Auto-Max railcar holds up to 22 vehicles and can hold both trucks and cars to reduce unused space. The result is less fuel usage per vehicle shipped and no compromise to quality. An average bi-level railcar can transport only 10 trucks, generally of a single vehicle type.

Honda's Auto-Max railcars have a 50-year estimated lifespan versus standard railcars, which typically require a major overhaul after just 20 years of service. Honda participated with the Greenbrier Companies (NYSE:GBX) in designing Auto-Max, which is exclusively manufactured by Greenbrier.

[TSB] 3rd Gear Problems for some Hondas & Acuras

SYMPTOM
The 6-speed manual transmission grinds when shifting into 3rd gear, pops out of 3rd gear, or is hard to shift into 3rd gear.

NOTE: These symptoms can be intermittent and sometimes more noticeable in colder climates.

PROBABLE CAUSE
The transmission has a faulty 3rd gear synchronizer or 3-4 shift sleeve.

CORRECTIVE ACTION
Replace the 3rd gear set.

VEHICLES AFFECTED
2003–07 Accord V6 with M/T: ALL

2008 Accord V6 with M/T 2-Door:
From VIN 1HGCS218.8A000001
thru 1HGCS218.8A003478

2006–07 Civic Si 2-Door: ALL

2008 Civic Si 2-Door:
From VIN 2HGFG215.8H700001
thru 2HGFG215.8H701973

2007 Civic Si 4-Door: ALL

2008 Civic Si 4-Door:
From VIN 2HGFA555.8H700001
thru 2HGFA555.8H702465

2003 Acura 3.2CL with M/T

2002-06 Acura RSX with six-speed

2004-08 Acura TL with M/T

[Source] AutoBlog.com

Link to Honda PDF / Link to Acura PDF

Honda Top of Best U.S. Cars List

The conclusion of a recent analysis conducted by Consumer Reports that looks at the reliability, performance, fuel economy, comfort, interior fit and finish, and ergonomics of 262 vehicles recently tested and overall the best cars sold in the U.S. are made by Honda. Only two automakers, Honda and Subaru, earned the distinction of having all of the models tested make the Recommended list. Since CR hasn't yet tested the redesigned Subaru Impreza and WRX, Honda is the only automaker whose entire model lineup is currently recommended.

Honda, with an overall score of 78, is followed closely by Toyota (75) and Subaru (72). BMW, Mazda, Nissan, and Volkswagen are tied at 71, after rounding.

Honda earned the top score in the analysis because it builds very reliable cars that perform very well. Its average test score is only slightly under Volkswagen's and Mercedes-Benz's. And Honda is the only automaker to earn an excellent overall reliability Rating.

But not all of Honda's models lead their class in test Ratings. The redesigned Honda CR-V SUV, for example, can't quite match the top-ranked Toyota RAV4. The Accord was edged out by the Nissan Altima. The Honda Odyssey minivan scored slightly lower than the Toyota Sienna. And some of Honda's upscale Acura models trail their Lexus counterparts from Toyota. But Honda's strength is its consistency; its vehicles typically rate near the top of their categories.

For the full article, click here.

Honda Announces Management Changes

Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced management changes.

Changes in Board Members (Pending approval at this year's regularly scheduled general shareholders' meeting in June)

Name	New Title	Current Title
Shigeru TAKAGI	Senior Managing Director	Managing Director
Tetsuo IWAMURA	Senior Managing Director	Managing Director
Akio HAMADA	Senior Managing Director	Managing Officer
Masaya YAMASHITA	Managing Director	Operating Officer
Hiroshi SODA	Director	Operating Officer
Takuji YAMADA	Director	Operating Officer
Yoichi HOJO	Director	Operating Officer

Retiring Directors (To retire on the same day as this year's regularly scheduled general shareholders' meeting in June)

Minoru HARADA	Current title: Senior Managing Director
Satoshi TOSHIDA	Current title: Senior Managing Director
Koki HIRASHIMA	Current title: Senior Managing Director

Major Changes in responsibilities of board members (Effective as of April 1)

Name and Title	New responsibilities	Current responsibilities
Koichi KONDO Executive Vice President	Chief Operating Officer for Regional Sales Operations (Japan)	Chief Operating Officer for Regional Sales Operations (Japan), Chairman and Director of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Minoru HARADA Senior Managing Director	-	Chief Operating Officer for Motorcycle Operations
Satoshi TOSHIDA Senior Managing Director	-	Chief Operating Officer for Power Product Operations
Koki HIRASHIMA Senior Managing Director	-	Chief Operating Officer for Production Operations
Mikio YOSHIMI Senior Managing Director	Compliance Officer, General Supervisor for Government and Industrial Affairs	Chief Operating Officer for Business Support Operations, Chief Officer for Driving Safety Promotion Center, Compliance Officer, General Supervisor for Government and Industrial Affairs,
Toru ONDA Managing Director	-	Chief Operating Officer for Purchasing Operations
Tatsuhiro OYAMA Managing Director	Chief Operating Officer for Motorcycle Operations	Chief Operating Officer for Regional Operations (Asia and Oceania), President & Director of Asian Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Fumihiko IKE Managing Director	Chief Operating Officer for Regional Operations (Asia and Oceania), President & Director of Asian Honda Motor Co., Ltd.	Chief Operating Officer for Business Management Operations

Changes in Operating Officers (Effective as of the date of this year's regularly scheduled general shareholders' meeting in June)

Name	New Title	Current Title
Hiroshi OSHIMA	Managing Officer	Operating Officer
Hidenobu IWATA	Managing Officer	Operating Officer

Major Changes in responsibilities of operating officers (effective as of April 1)

Name and Title	New responsibilities	Current responsibilities
Akio HAMADA Managing Officer	Chief Operating Officer for Production Operations	President and Director of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.
Manabu NISHIMAE Operating Officer	President and Director of Honda Canada Inc.	Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Regional Sales Operations (Japan)
Masaya YAMASHITA Operating Officer	Chief Operating Officer for Purchasing Operations	General Manager of Kumamoto Factory
Hiroshi KOBAYASHI Operating Officer	Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Regional Sales Operations (Japan)	President and Director of Honda Canada Inc.
Hiroshi OSHIMA Operating Officer	General Supervisor for Corporate Communications and Motor Sports	General Supervisor for Corporate Communications and Motor Sports, General Manager of Corporate Communications Division
Tsutomu SAKA Operating Officer	-	General Manager of Hamamatsu Factory
Hiroshi SODA Operating Officer	Chief Operating Officer for Business Support Operations, Chief Officer of Driving Safety Promotion Center	Executive Vice President of Honda North America, Inc., Executive Vice President of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Takuji YAMADA Operating Officer	Chief Operating Officer for Power Product Operations	President and Director of Honda Motor Europe (North) GmbH
Yoichi HOJO Operating Officer	Chief Operating Officer for Business Management Operations	General Manager of Automobile Purchasing Division 2
Tsuneo TANAI Operating Officer	President and Director of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.	Executive Vice President of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.
Masahiro YOSHIDA Operating Officer	General Manager of Hamamatsu Factory	General Manager of Human Resources Division

Newly appointed Operating Officers (Effective as of the date of this year's regularly scheduled general shareholders' meeting in June

Name	Responsibilities as of April 1	Current responsibilities
Katsushi WATANABE	General Manager of Kumamoto Factory
Toshiaki MIKOSHIBA	Executive Vice President of Honda Motor Europe Ltd.	General Manager of CS and Auto Sales Development Division of Regional Sales Operations (Japan)
Yohshi YAMANE	Project Leader of a company project
Takashi SEKIGUCHI	Executive Vice President of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.	General Manager of Product Planning and Marketing Office
Takahiro HACHIGO	General Manager of Automobile Purchasing Division 2	Managing Officer of Honda R&D Co., Ltd.

Retiring Operating Officer (To retire on the same day as this year's regularly scheduled general shareholders' meeting in June)

Tsutomu SAKA

Changes in Corporate Auditor (Pending approval at this year's regularly scheduled general shareholders' meeting in June)

Name	New Title	Current Title
Toru ONDA	Corporate Auditor	Managing Director

Retiring Corporate Auditors (To retire on the same day as this year's regularly scheduled general shareholders' meeting in June)

Hiroshi OKUBO
Koji MIYAJIMA

[Source] Honda Press Release

[UPDATE] Honda is the Official Tournament of Roses Vehicle Provider

On New Year's Day, parade-watchers will witness a Honda Ridgeline-inspired truck rising from the bed of the float in a cloud of mist, become an airborne craft and 'blast off' with a replica of ASIMO, Honda's advanced humanoid robot, at the controls. Using Honda generators to transform, the hood of the truck will fold forward to become an aircraft cockpit, the doors and sides of the truck will unfold outward to become wings, the wheels will tuck under the body, and the bed of the truck will open and take on the form of an aircraft tail section, complete with rocket engines - and even real fire.



"When it comes to creativity and innovation, you can always count on Honda to make the Rose Parade spectacular," said Bill Flinn, chief operating officer, Tournament of Roses.



"American Honda is committed to creating products that give people mobility - on both two and four wheels, and soon, in the skies. This year's float takes a fun and imaginative look at what the future of mobility might hold," said Steve Morikawa, assistant vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Honda Rose Parade entries have captured major awards in 12 out of the last 13 years. Honda is the official Tournament of Roses vehicle. This year, the company will provide 115 vehicles, 166 Metropolitan scooters and 12 generators for use by Tournament of Roses personnel.

The 119th Rose Parade, themed "Passport to the World's Celebrations," will take place Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2008 at 8 a.m. (PST).

[Source] Honda Press Release

[UPDATE] Honda's 2008 Tournament of Roses Float



Fire blasting out of the rocket engines of the Honda float in the Tournament of Roses Parade Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2008 in Pasadena, Calif. The float which transformed from a truck to take the form of an spacecraft complete with rocket engines and real fire, won the Crown City Innovation Trophy, given for "Best Use of Imagination and Innovation to Advance the Art of Floral Design." Honda has won 13 awards in the past 14 years. Photo/Honda, Susan Goldman, handout.

Acura Related Highlights Of Honda 2007 Year-End CEO Speech

Honda will further accelerate a focus on the following three pillars:

1. Strengthening the foundation for global growth

Europe - Automobile:
In the first half of 2008, the all-new Accord Sedan and Tourer will be introduced to the market. The mass production models will be introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2008. The all-new Accord will be equipped with an i-DTEC engine, which complies with the Euro 5 emission standard expected to become effective in 2009. - (This all-new Accord will most likely be introduced in the States as the next geneation Acura TSX.)


Honda Accord Tourer concept

2. Strengthening the foundation for global growth:

Hybrid:

(It must be noted that Honda has no intentions of making an Acura hybrid, but it's still nice to know what Honda is getting.)

* In addition to Civic Hybrid, Honda will introduce a new dedicated hybrid vehicle in 2009. The new dedicated hybrid vehicle will be equipped with a newly developed lightweight and compact IMA (integrated motor assist) system and offered at a more affordable price level base on Honda's efforts to significantly reduce cost. The worldwide sales plan for this vehicle is approximately 200,000 units annually.

* A new sports hybrid, based on the CR-Z introduced at Tokyo Motor Show, will be sold globally.


CR-Z Concept

Diesel:
* The second-generation i-DTEC engine will first be installed to models for European markets in 2008, North America in 2009, and Japan will follow. (An Acura diesel may not be totally out of the question.)


i-DTEC European Honda Accords (a.k.a Acura TSXs).

3. Accelerating our efforts in Japan to strengthen the core characteristic that make Honda unique:

R&D Capabilities:
* In addition to test courses, Honda decided to build a product development facility dedicated to the Acura brand within the new R&D center being constructed in Sakura with an aim to strengthen product development for the Acura brand.

* In April 2006, Honda R&D launched a new organizational structure separating the product development functions for the Honda and Acura brands. With the addition of a dedicated development facility for the Acura brand, Honda R&D will further strengthen product development capabilities which clearly define the unique characteristics of each brand and accelerate product development that offers new value for the customer.

Production:
Automobile - Construction of a new engine plant in Ogawa and new auto plant in Yorii began in fall 2007 with a target to begin operations in 2009 and 2010, respectively.

Automobile Business in Japan:
* To further strengthen the Honda brand, all-new versions of four different vehicles will be introduced in Japan during 2008. Honda's goal is to expand sales by offering attractive products which bring more joys to customers.

For the full article: Honda Worldwide News

New Dedicated Acura Development Facility In Sakura For 2009

Honda R&D Co., Ltd. is responsible for research and development activities, announced plans to build a product development facility dedicated to the Acura brand within the new R&D center being constructed in Sakura, Tochigi. The new R&D center will have multiple test courses, which replicate various driving conditions ranging from high-speed driving to urban driving. The construction of this new R&D center began in November 2007 and is scheduled to become operational in 2009. The existing Automobile R&D Center in Tochigi will continue to strengthening product development for the Honda brand and development of next-generation power plants including hybrid, diesel, and fuel cell power plants.

Due to the belief that strengthening advanced technology R&D capabilities in Japan will become increasingly important in order for Honda to continue to grow and advance globally. In April 2006, Honda R&D launched a new organizational structure separating the product development functions for the Honda and Acura brands. With the addition of a dedicated development facility for the Acura brand, Honda R&D will further strengthen product development capabilities which clearly define the unique characteristics of each brand and accelerate development of products that offer new value for the customer.

Including test courses and the dedicated Acura development facility, the overall size of the new R&D center in Sakura is expected to be approximately 2.3 million square meters (m2), with related investment expected to be approximately 48 billion yen. Honda aims to begin partial operation of this state-of-the-art and environmentally-responsible facility in 2009, with full operations in 2010.



This is great news to all Acura fans because there has been much criticism about Acura vehicles just being glorified Accords. Hopefully, Honda/Acura can change this image to further advance the Acura brand, which was the first Japanese luxury brand. Toyota and Nissan soon followed with the Lexus and Infiniti brands.

[Source] JCN Network: Japan's Corporate News

Can I Use Regular Unleaded In My Acura?

This is straight from the Winter 2008 Acura Style magazine:

"Acura's Client Services (ACS) has thoughts on ill-advised owner attempts to beat stratospheric premium fuel prices by using regular unleaded instead. In a word: don't. Your Acura is designed to operate on 91 octane premium unleaded gasoline. If you're stranded and can't access premium, then 87 octane regular unleaded will see you home, but don't make a habit of using regular gasoline. You want the best possible performance from your Acura-and peak performance demands the correct fuel."

Here is a USAToday.com article on using Regular Vs. Premium gas. Highlights include:

"I personally use regular even though my owner's manual says you'll get better performance with premium," says Lewis Gibbs, consulting engineer and 45-year veteran at Chevron oil company. He's chairman of Technical Committee 7 on Fuels, part of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Fuels & Lubricants Council. Gibbs knows gas.
The main advantage of premium-grade gas is that it allows automakers to advertise a few more horsepower by designing and tuning engines to take advantage of premium's anti-knock properties. But auto engineers generally agree that if you use regular in a premium engine, the power loss is so slight, most drivers can't tell.

"I go back and forth, and I'm hard-pressed to notice" whether there's regular or premium in the tank, says Jeff Jetter, principal chemist at Honda Research and Development Americas. He drives an Acura designed for premium.Import brands, especially, use premium fuel to distinguish their upmarket models. Most Toyotas, for instance, are designed to run on regular or midgrade, while the automaker's Lexus luxury brand prefers premium. Same with Honda and its Acura luxury line.

Today's engines use highly evolved versions of a device called a knock sensor to adjust settings automatically for low-octane gas. And more engine control computers have adequate memory to allow separate sets of instructions for various octanes. The engine control computers keep pushing to maximize performance on whatever grade of fuel is used.

The only modern engines that should really need premium are those with superchargers, which force-feed fuel into the cylinders. "You're driving along and just tramp the gas and the knock sensor cannot sense the knock fast enough in some cases," because the supercharger boosts pressure so fast, says Bob Furey, chemist and fuels specialist at General Motors.

Burning regular when the owner's manual specifies premium won't void the warranty, nor damage the engine, even the most finicky automakers say. "You're giving up perhaps just a little bit of performance that a customer wouldn't really even notice, it's so slight," says Furey.

Automakers say they don't test premium engines on regular to check the difference, but some auto engineers estimate that power declines roughly 5%.

Honda (Acura) Helps Southern California Wildfire Relief Efforts

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. announced today a pledge of $250,000 to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to assist the Red Cross in providing shelter, relief and recovery support to those affected by the Southern California wildfires. In addition, American Honda is working with the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services to assess and identify its need for emergency assistance materials and resources such as Honda-made vehicles, generators, and other products, and will donate these materials as requested. Honda will provide a 100 percent match of any funds donated to the American Red Cross or other applicable organizations by the approximately 7,000 associates (employees) of American Honda and its subsidiaries.

American Honda has supported the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund through several disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, September 11 and the California wildfires of 2003. Honda's support efforts have included funds as well as materials such as the donation of generators and all-terrain vehicles.

[Source] HondaNews.com

Glimpse Of Next Gen (2009) Acura TSX?

Honda revealed the next Honda Accord Tourer concept at the 2007 Frankfurt auto show. The automaker plans to build this European station wagon by middle of next year. It will feature the 2.0 and 2.4-liter gas engines, as well as Honda's 2.2-liter diesel, as options when it goes into production. Honda says we'll see the final version at the Geneva auto show.

What does this Honda station wagon have to do with Acura you may be thinking. The current Acura TSX is just a rebadged European Honda Accord. The styling of this concept car resembles the Honda Sports 4, which is rumored to be the next Acura TSX. Plus, look at that grill! It screams, "ACURA!"

European Accord Sport GT

Honda UK has added a new mode to its range with the introduction of the Accord Sport GT, a new trim/equipment package based on the existing Euro Accord. The European Honda Accord is basically the Acura TSX here in the States. The Sport GT version gets a sport suspension, Graphite-finish alloys (17" for the sedan, 16" for the wagon -- a.k.a. Tourer) and several appearance and convenience upgrades. Those include the Premium White Pear finish shown above, dark chrome grille and door handles, red gauges, carbon fiber-look inlays on the dash and center console, a decklid spoiler, premium audio, nav, Bluetooth, and a few other items.



The Accord Sport GT is powered by Honda's 2.2L i-CDTi turbodiesel, which delivers 140 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 250 lb-ft of torque at 2000 rpm. Combined cycle fuel economy is right around 42.8 mpg (US).



[Source] AutoBlog.com

The car looks pretty good. I especially like the rims better than the current style on the refreshed (2006 & after) Acura TSX. I wonder if we're going to see a "Sport GT" version for the Acura TSX anytime soon, however It's more likely that we'll be seeing a "Type-S" version from Acura.

[Related] A TSX that gets more MPG than a Prius!