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

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

Acura in Russia in 2008

Honda Motors Co Ltd. plans to sell Acura luxurious sedans in Russia as of 2008. The company will open ten offices in Russia’s biggest cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg. According to the Nikkei weekly, Honda will market its executive and sports brands – Acura RL, Acura RDX, Acura MDX and Acura TL. The Acura brand is currently being sold in the United States, Canada, China and Mexico.



At present, Honda has 30 shops in Russia. In 2006 the sales level snowballed by 77 percent to 15,723 cars as against 2005. In January-June, sales more than doubled to 13,616 cars. Honda Motors Co Ltd forecasts that in 2010 it may increase sales by six-fold as against 2006 to 100,000 cars a year. The Japanese business newspaper cites statistics proving that in 2006 Russians bought 1.8 million of new cars, while this year this figure may go up by 10-20 percent.

[Source] itar-tass.com

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

Acura Teaming Up With Wall Street Journal

The Wall Street Journal Digital Network announced the launch of an interactive program developed for Acura's Innovation for Life campaign. "Acura customers are, by nature, early adopters of technology and innovation," said Jenny Howell, manager of interactive marketing for American Honda Motor Co. "The Innovations for Life campaign highlights transformative technologies that enhance the lifestyles of consumers every day, much like the technologies in Acura vehicles."

The first week's Innovations for Life topic will focus on new technologies for weather and hurricane forecasting; subsequent topics will include emerging trends in travel, entertainment, telecommunications, consumer products, sports and health. Users will be able to add their comments to the topic pages and interact with other like-minded readers; a selection of this user-generated content will later run as part of the Acura display ad units across the WSJ Digital Network of sites.

For the "special" Acura section of the WSJ: http://online.wsj.com/ad/acurainnovations

[Source] The Wall Street Journal Digital Network