Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Christmas on Us
This Christmas Cumulus Stations, HOT 1077, ROCK 99, JOX 94,5 and 100 WAPI asked listeners to nominate deserving families to receive Christmas gifts from the radio stations and station clients. The Serra Honda family was proud to sponsor this event. Here are the families that were selected:
Amanda Miller
Amanda Miller is single mother with 5 children that works two jobs to make sure her kids have the necessities in life. Amanda’s kids know that Christmas comes at tax time every year because money is tight all year long.
When asked by her friend Kay Martin why she doesn’t ask for assistance from a charitable organization or church, Amanda stated; “I am the giver, I would rather buy for another family”. The Miller family’s attitude and spirit is why Serra Honda is proud to sponsor them for the “Christmas on Us”program.
Diondria Heller
Diondria Heller was nominated by her best friend Tamala Moore because she was an inspiration to her and her family. Diondra has 5 children (two of which suffer from chronic asthma), and has supported them all by herself this year. They moved from Florida to Alabama in a rental car with nothing but the clothes on their backs. The Heller family has been faced with tough times since Diondria has had her hours at work cut to 4 hours a day. This situation has prompted Diondria’s two eldest sons to say “Mom, don’t worry about getting us something for Christmas, just make sure the babies are straight”. The selflessness and dedication to family is why Serra Honda is proud to sponsor the Heller family for the “Christmas on Us” program.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
New Four-cylinder 2012 Honda Crosstour EX and EX-L Combine Affordability, Fuel Efficiency and a Sleek Crossover Design
Two new four-cylinder, two-wheel-drive Honda Crosstour® models are set to go on sale next month, broadening the vehicle's appeal through a lower price point and EPA-estimated fuel economy that increases 3 mpg1 in the city and 2 mpg1 on the highway.
Equipped with a 2.4-liter i-VTEC inline four-cylinder engine producing 192 horsepower, the newest Crosstour is available in two trim levels, including the Crosstour EX and leather-upholstered Crosstour EX-L. A Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System2 is available on the Crosstour EX-L.
EPA-estimated fuel economy on the four-cylinder Crosstour is 21 mpg1 city and 29 mpg1 highway, a significant increase from the 271-horsepower 2WD V6 model's EPA estimated 18 mpg1 city and 27 mpg1 highway.
With the launch of the new four-cylinder Crosstour models, some useful features are now standard across the entire Crosstour family, which first debuted for the 2010 model year with V6 power. The four-cylinder Crosstour models join the current 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 Crosstour models already available. Standard features now include an automatic dimming rearview mirror, a rearview mirror back-up camera display for improved rear visibility (non-Navigation models), convenient auto-on/off headlights, Bluetooth®3 HandsFreeLink® and USB audio interface.
Bold Exterior and Functional Interior
Honda Crosstour approaches the crossover SUV formula from a distinctively sleek, sporty and fuel-efficient perspective, while also maximizing the interior's cargo capacity, versatility and premium feel.
The exterior design emphasizes a bold, aerodynamic look that also conceals an accommodating rear cargo area. The four-cylinder model includes body-color door handles and unique 17-inch alloy wheels with P225/65 R17 all-season tires. Two new colors are available on all 2012 Crosstour models: Twilight Blue Metallic replaces Glacier Blue Metallic, and Basque Red Pearl II replaces Tango Red Pearl.
Premium interior styling, appointments and details extend from the passenger compartment all the way through the cargo area. An under-floor storage area in the rear of the vehicle adds functionality, while reversible cargo floor panels accommodate dirty objects.
Efficient Four-cylinder Powertrain
The new four-cylinder Crosstour models come with a 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC® engine for power and efficiency. The engine produces 192 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 162 lb-ft. of torque at 4,400 RPM, while achieving an EPA-estimated city/highway/combined fuel economy of 21/29/24 mpg1. To maximize efficiency, a technologically advanced 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control is standard equipment.
Comprehensive Feature List
In addition to auto-on/off headlights, Bluetooth3 HandsFreeLink®, USB audio interface and rearview mirror back-up camera display with integrated guidelines, additional standard features on the new four-cylinder Crosstour EX include projector-beam headlights, a moonroof, body-colored power side mirrors with defrost, auto-up/down driver and front passenger side windows, and rear privacy glass. Inside are air conditioning with second-row ventilation, a 360-watt AM/FM 6-disc audio system with seven speakers, steering wheel-mounted cruise, audio and phone controls, an easy fold-down 60-40 split rear seatback, a hidden removable utility box and more.
Crosstour EX-L adds leather-trimmed seating surfaces with heated front seats, a memory driver-side seat and memory-linked side mirrors with reverse gear tilt-down capability, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, dual-zone automatic climate control, an automatic dimming rearview mirror, a premium audio system with Kevlar® cone speakers and front aluminum dome-type tweeter speakers, XM® Radio and more. Also available on the Crosstour EX-L is the Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System2 which includes a rearview camera with guidelines integrated into the display.
Safety Assets
Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, a Honda-exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. Additional safety equipment on the Crosstour includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, and active front seat head restraints.
The Crosstour is assembled in Ohio at the Honda of America Mfg., Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant using domestic and globally sourced parts.
Warranty
The 2012 Honda Crosstour is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile new-car limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion limited warranty.
Courtesy of Honda
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Honda Civic Natural Gas Named 2012 Green Car of the Year
The all-new 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas – the only factory-built, CNG-powered car produced in America – was named 2012 Green Car of the Year® at the Los Angeles Auto Show today. The award was presented to Honda by the editors of Green Car Journal representing a diverse panel of environmental experts and automotive enthusiasts who annually select a single vehicle for its outstanding environmental performance.
"The Civic Natural Gas is not only a great vehicle, it also demonstrates Honda's commitment to provide a variety of alternatives to gasoline," said Michael Accavitti, vice president of marketing at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The Civic Natural Gas and the all-new Fit EV that we introduced yesterday at the Los Angeles Auto Show are the latest additions to a rapidly expanding family of alternative energy Honda vehicles aimed at cutting petroleum use and reducing our carbon footprint."
To support growing consumer interest in alternative-fuel vehicles, Honda is expanding its retail network of Civic Natural Gas retail outlets to 200 dealers in 36 states. Previously, retail sales of the natural gas-powered Civic had been limited to four states – California, New York, Utah and Oklahoma. The 2012 Civic Natural Gas went on sale on October 18 with a manufacturer's suggested retail price1 (MSRP) starting at $26,155.
With multiple benefits including lower fuel costs and extremely low smog-forming emissions, the 2012 Civic Natural Gas currently qualifies for a state-issued decal allowing single-occupant access to High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) "carpool" lanes in California and several other states.
The Civic Natural Gas engine produces almost zero smog-forming emissions and is the cleanest internal-combustion vehicle certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Tier-II, Bin-2 and ILEV certification as of August 2010).
Featuring new styling, enhanced feature content and increased fuel economy, the redesigned 2012 Civic Natural Gas can now be equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System featuring an exclusive database of publicly accessible Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refueling stations across the United States.
All Civic Natural Gas models are produced by Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC (HMIN) using domestic and globally sourced parts. HMIN is the recipient of a 2011 Platinum Award for quality from J.D. Power and Associates. In addition to being named 2012 Green Car of the Year, previous versions of the CNG-powered Civic have topped the "greenest vehicle" rankings of the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) for eight straight years.
About the Green Car of the Year® Award
The Green Car of the Year® is presented annually by the Green Car Journal. In addition to the publication's editors, jurors include Carl Pope, chairman of the Sierra Club; Frances Beinecke, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council; Jean-Michel Cousteau, president of Ocean Futures Society; Matt Petersen, president of Global Green USA; Jay Leno, noted auto enthusiast and host of the "Tonight Show," as well as automotive icon Carroll Shelby.
Honda Environmental Leadership
Honda is a leader in the development of leading-edge technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. Honda has led the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) rankings of overall vehicle environmental performance since 2000, and a Honda vehicle has topped the list of America's greenest vehicles, from the America Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), for eleven consecutive years.
In 2006, Honda became the first automaker to announce voluntary CO2 emissions reduction targets for its global fleet of automobile, powersports and power equipment products and its global network of manufacturing plants. Today, the company is striving for even greater reductions in CO2 emissions that contribute to global climate change, while also working to minimize waste, water use and the total environmental footprint of its operations worldwide.
1MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $750.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
Courtesy of Honda
Monday, December 19, 2011
Honda to Invest $84 Million and Add 100 Jobs to Increase Annual Production to 340,000 Vehicles and Engines
Combined with previous investments announced earlier this year, Honda is investing a total of $275 million and adding 140 total jobs to increase manufacturing flexibility and production capacity in Alabama. The newest $84 million investment is tied to the addition of the Acura MDX luxury sport utility vehicle to the company 's existing production lineup of the Honda Odyssey minivan, Honda Pilot SUV, Honda Ridgeline pickup truck and the V-6 engines that power each vehicle.
"Numbers and milestones measure results, but it is our people – our Honda associates – who are the driving force in all of our accomplishments in Alabama," said Tom Shoupe, HMA president. "This new investment in our Alabama facility will enhance our production flexibility and better position Honda to meet customer demand for our lineup of fuel-efficient passenger cars and light trucks."
HMA began production with the Honda Odyssey on Nov. 14, 2001. With today 's announcement, HMA 's annual production capacity will increase by 40,000 units to 340,000 vehicles and engines by 2013. Honda 's cumulative investment in its Lincoln facility will total more than $2 billion by 2013. HMA employs more than 4,000 associates.
The $84 million investment will add a third stamping line to the existing two stamping lines which have the capability to produce vehicle body parts of both steel and aluminum. The more than $190 million in investments HMA announced earlier this year includes construction and equipment investments to improve manufacturing flexibility and production capacity.
Courtesy of Honda
Friday, December 16, 2011
Thank you for your helpful feedback. Way to go team!
Three positive reviews from Google Maps:
Review 1
Review 2
Review 3
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Thank you for sharing your experiences with us! Kudos team!
Six five star reviews from Google Maps:
Review 1
Review 2
Review 3
Review 4
Review 5
Review 6
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept to Make World Debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show
The Accord Coupe Concept will convey the dynamic and aggressive profile of the ninth-generation 2013 Honda Accord set to go on sale in the fall of 2012. John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales, will introduce the concept vehicle at a press conference, which will also be broadcast live via webcast at http://hondanews.com/live/2012naias-honda (link will be live Jan. 10).
A leader in style, performance, safety, efficiency and value since the introduction of the first generation model in 1976, the Accord remains one of the best-selling cars in America. The 2012 Accord was recently named to Car and Driver Magazine's '10Best' list for a record 26th time and was ranked as having the highest initial quality in its segment in the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The introduction of the ninth-generation Accord marks 30 years of U.S. production of the model at the Marysville Auto Plant in Marysville, Ohio, the first Japanese car assembly plant in the U.S.
Courtesy of Honda
Monday, December 12, 2011
Fans! Do you need your tires rotated? Check out our December Facebook coupon.
Click here to visit us on Facebook.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Honda Accord and Fit Receive Car and Driver Magazine's "10Best Cars" Awards
Courtesy of Honda
Car and Driver magazine has named the 2012 Honda Accord 4-cylinder and the 2012 Honda Fit as two winners of its prestigious and highly competitive, annual "10Best Cars" award. Now in its eighth generation, the Accord has achieved "10Best Cars" status 26 times in the 30 years that Car and Driver editors have been conducting the competition, more than any other vehicle in the award's history. The Honda Fit has been honored with "10Best Cars" status in each of the six years that it has been on sale in the United States.
"The Car and Driver '10Best Cars' awards document a proud history of great cars in America over the last 30 years," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Honda is honored to again have two of our vehicles included among the best of the best."
The Fit has been sold in the U.S. since the 2007 model year and is manufactured in Sayama, Japan. The Accord has been sold in the U.S. since the 1976 model year and has been manufactured in Marysville, Ohio since 1982.
Honda Car and Driver "10Best Cars" Award History
| Honda Model | "10Best Cars" Award Model Year |
| Accord | 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1995, 1994,1991, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1987, 1986, 1985, 1984, 1983 |
| Civic | 1996, 1991,1990, 1989, 1988 |
| CRX | 1988, 1985 |
| Fit | 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007 |
| Prelude | 1998, 1997, 1996, 1995,1994,1993, 1992, 1986, 1985, 1984 |
| S2000 | 2004, 2002, 2001, 2000 |
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Serra Honda would like to invite you to sponsor "Christmas on Us"
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Are you in the market for a new Honda? Check out our inventory to see what we have in stock such as this 2012 Honda Civic!
2012 Honda Civic Cpe 2dr Auto EX
Click the link, call us, or stop in today for more details!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
The Honda Civic Sedan's Awards, Accolades, and Ratings
The 2012 Honda Civic was named Best Resale Value for a Compact Car by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. Depreciation (or loss of value) is typically a car buyer's primary expense during ownership. Taking resale value into account can help drivers save money in the long run. Kelley Blue Book® Residual Values are projected based on market conditions for each vehicle, competition within vehicle segments, expectations of the future economy and combined experience of Kelley Blue Book's residual analysts.Vehicle's projected resale value is specific to the 2012 model year. For more information, visit Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc. 
The Honda Civic is J.D. Power and Associates' "Highest Ranked Compact Car in Initial Quality in a Tie" with the Honda Insight in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS)(tied with the Honda Insight). The IQS named the highest performers within the first 90 days of vehicle ownership. Needless to say, a trophy like this deserves a prime spot in the trophy case.Visit the J.D. Power and Associates website here to view the complete study.Honda Civic received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among compact cars in a tie in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Initial Quality StudySM. Study based on responses from 73,790 new-vehicle owners, measuring 234 models and measures opinions after 90 days of ownership. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of owners surveyed in February-May 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. 
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the 2012 Civic Sedan a "2011 Top Safety Pick," based on more stringent standards implemented in 2010. The Civic Sedan received top ratings in each category including frontal offset, side impact and rear impact crash safety tests and the new roof-strength test. 
Honda has won the first ever Edmunds.com Best Retained Value Award for Non-Luxury Brands. In addition, four Honda models won model-level 2011 Edmunds.com Best Retained Value Awards. Having a clear idea about a car's future resale value is an important part of the car-buying process, and Honda is proud to be recognized for how well our vehicles hold their value over time. 
Honda has a long history of environmental leadership, including the introduction of America's first mass-produced hybrid, the [original] Honda Insight, and the first vehicle to meet California's Low-Emission Vehicle standards, 1996 Civic well in advance of regulatory requirements. Acknowledgment of our commitment to innovation can be seen by Honda's topping the rankings as the country's greenest automaker by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS)—for the fifth consecutive year[1]. [1] Based on a Union of Concerned Scientists analysis of fleetwide global warming and smog emissions from 2008 model year vehicles.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Honda Civic Natural Gas Named 2012 Green Car of the Year
"The Civic Natural Gas is not only a great vehicle, it also demonstrates Honda's commitment to provide a variety of alternatives to gasoline," said Michael Accavitti, vice president of marketing at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The Civic Natural Gas and the all-new Fit EV that we introduced yesterday at the Los Angeles Auto Show are the latest additions to a rapidly expanding family of alternative energy Honda vehicles aimed at cutting petroleum use and reducing our carbon footprint."
To support growing consumer interest in alternative-fuel vehicles, Honda is expanding its retail network of Civic Natural Gas retail outlets to 200 dealers in 36 states. Previously, retail sales of the natural gas-powered Civic had been limited to four states – California, New York, Utah and Oklahoma. The 2012 Civic Natural Gas went on sale on October 18 with a manufacturer's suggested retail price1 (MSRP) starting at $26,155.
With multiple benefits including lower fuel costs and extremely low smog-forming emissions, the 2012 Civic Natural Gas currently qualifies for a state-issued decal allowing single-occupant access to High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) "carpool" lanes in California and several other states.
The Civic Natural Gas engine produces almost zero smog-forming emissions and is the cleanest internal-combustion vehicle certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Tier-II, Bin-2 and ILEV certification as of August 2010).
Featuring new styling, enhanced feature content and increased fuel economy, the redesigned 2012 Civic Natural Gas can now be equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System featuring an exclusive database of publicly accessible Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refueling stations across the United States.
All Civic Natural Gas models are produced by Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC (HMIN) using domestic and globally sourced parts. HMIN is the recipient of a 2011 Platinum Award for quality from J.D. Power and Associates. In addition to being named 2012 Green Car of the Year, previous versions of the CNG-powered Civic have topped the "greenest vehicle" rankings of the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) for eight straight years.
About the Green Car of the Year® Award
The Green Car of the Year® is presented annually by the Green Car Journal. In addition to the publication's editors, jurors include Carl Pope, chairman of the Sierra Club; Frances Beinecke, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council; Jean-Michel Cousteau, president of Ocean Futures Society; Matt Petersen, president of Global Green USA; Jay Leno, noted auto enthusiast and host of the "Tonight Show," as well as automotive icon Carroll Shelby.
Honda Environmental Leadership
Honda is a leader in the development of leading-edge technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. Honda has led the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) rankings of overall vehicle environmental performance since 2000, and a Honda vehicle has topped the list of America's greenest vehicles, from the America Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), for eleven consecutive years.
In 2006, Honda became the first automaker to announce voluntary CO2 emissions reduction targets for its global fleet of automobile, powersports and power equipment products and its global network of manufacturing plants. Today, the company is striving for even greater reductions in CO2 emissions that contribute to global climate change, while also working to minimize waste, water use and the total environmental footprint of its operations worldwide.
1MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $750.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
Courtesy of Honda
Monday, November 21, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Honda's Newest Website Launched as Resource for Public Policy Audiences
The Honda Government Relations office today launched a new website to provide the latest information about the company’s investment in America and efforts to enhance fuel efficiency, develop advanced safety technologies, and deliver top-level quality to customers.
HondaInAmerica.com was developed to be a resource for policymakers, regulators and media at the federal, state and local levels. Comprehensive data is now available online about the company’s employment, manufacturing, and purchasing history in America. Seven investment sections – Manufacturing, Employment, R&D, Parts & Suppliers, Environment, Safety and Communities – detail Honda’s U.S. operations through charts, tables and videos.
“For more than 20 years, Honda Government Relations produced a comprehensive data book that became a valuable resource to congressional and agency staff, and automotive and policy media,” said Edward B. Cohen, Vice President of Government & Industry Relations for Honda North America, Inc. “We now offer our audiences the same valuable information through a site that both extends our reach and is more environmentally sustainable.”
To demonstrate Honda’s presence in all 50 states, the website also features a U.S. Investment Map, plotting Honda facility, dealership and supplier locations on a state-by-state level and listing capital investment, total direct and indirect employment and philanthropic activities.
HondaInAmerica.com includes a Honda Video section covering a range of relevant topics including innovative technologies, alternative fuel vehicles, community outreach and advanced safety capabilities. Other features include a News and Views section for users to access Honda news releases, opinion pieces, issue briefs and articles in real-time.
“We are very proud to tell the story of our company’s 50 year history in America. By demonstrating Honda’s commitment to the U.S. through building products here, employing Americans in all 50 states, purchasing from local suppliers, and engaging in U.S.-based R&D, we can help lawmakers understand the economic and societal impact we have on their state and district.” said Cohen.
Data found at HondaInAmerica.com:
- 87 percent of Honda and Acura vehicles sold in the U.S. in 2010 were made in North America, the highest percentage of any international automaker.
- With 11 R&D facilities in the U.S. today, Honda has more than any international auto manufacturer.
- Honda purchased over $90 billion in U.S. parts and materials in the past five years.
- Honda operates nine manufacturing facilities in the U.S., producing 955,000 automobiles, 1.04 million vehicle engines, 933,000 general-purpose engines, 863,000 transmissions, 342,000 power equipment, and 84,000 all-terrain vehicles
- Honda has had no layoffs in more than 50 years of operations in the U.S.
Visit HondaInAmerica.com for more information!
Courtesy of Honda
Monday, November 14, 2011
Red Tag Sales Event
Get great deals on the 2012 Civic LX, the 2011 CR-V LX, the 2012 Accord, and the 2012 Odyssey LX.
Click on the link for more information. http://bit.ly/sDIy5O
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Thank you to the authors of these reviews. Way to go team!
Three positive reviews from Google Maps:
Review One
"EXCELLENT!! My experience at Serra Honda was absolutely the best car buying experience I could ask for. The sales person (Lajuana) was knowledgeable, courteous and helped us through the process like a pro. This was the second car I have purchased from Serra and will certainly be back for the third when the time comes. I would highly recommend shopping here to anyone and in particular giving Lajuana a call.
Review Three
" The best car experience I have ever had. This is my second car purchased from them in the past two years. My salesperson (LaJuana Roden) was more than just helpful. She did everything she could do To make my experience pleasant. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a car!!! Teresa Hood"
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Honda Unveils All-new ASIMO with Significant Advancements
1Honda internal research as of Nov. 8, 2011
Since the establishment of the company, Honda has continued to take on new challenges in the effort to create new products and advance technologies with the spirit of utilizing technology to help people. In the area of humanoid robot research, Honda has been developing and advancing the ASIMO humanoid robot to realize a dream to be useful for people and to help enrich people's daily lives.
Honda has a newly established collective name, Honda Robotics, to represent all of its robotics technologies and product applications created through its research and development of humanoid robots. While continuing the research and development of humanoid robots, Honda will also focus on applying robotics technologies to mass-produced products and putting product applications into practical use.
Based on this concept of Honda Robotics, Honda also introduced an experimental model of a task-performing robot arm that was developed while applying multi-joint simultaneous orbit control and posture control technologies amassed through the research and development of ASIMO. This robot arm can be remotely controlled to perform tasks in unstable places which are difficult for people to access.
All-new ASIMO
The all-new ASIMO is now advanced from an "automatic machine" to an "autonomous machine" with the decision-making capability to determine its behavior in concert with its surroundings such as movements of people. At the beginning of the development process, the following three factors were identified as necessary for a robot to perform as an autonomous machine, and the technologies required to realize these capabilities were developed; 1) high-level postural balancing capability which enables the robot to maintain its posture by putting out its leg in an instant, 2) external recognition capability which enables the robot to integrate information, such as movements of people around it, from multiple sensors and estimate the changes that are taking place, and 3) the capability to generate autonomous behavior which enables the robot to make predictions from gathered information and autonomously determine the next behavior without being controlled by an operator. With these capabilities, the all-new ASIMO takes another step closer to practical use in an environment where it coexists with people.
1. Advancement of intelligence capability
Honda has developed a new system that is a fundamental technology for advanced intelligence, which comprehensively evaluates inputs from multiple sensors that are equivalent to the visual, auditory, and tactile senses of a human being, then estimates the situation of the surrounding environment and determines the corresponding behavior of the robot. With this technology, ASIMO became capable of responding to the movement of people and the surrounding situations. For instance, ASIMO will stop its current action and change its behavior to accommodate the intention of the other party. Moreover, coordination between visual and auditory sensors enables ASIMO to simultaneously recognize a face and voice, enabling ASIMO to recognize the voices of multiple people who are speaking simultaneously, which is difficult even for a human being to accomplish.
Further, ASIMO is now capable of predicting the direction a person will walk within the next few seconds based on information from pre-set space sensors and quickly determining to take an alternate path to avoid a collision with the person if the estimated locations of the person and the ASIMO intersect.
2. Advancement of physical capability
The combination of strengthened legs, an expanded range of leg movement and a newly developed control technology that enables ASIMO to change landing positions in the middle of a motion has enabled ASIMO to walk, run, run backward, hop on one leg or on two legs continuously. As a result of acquiring the ability to make such agile motions, ASIMO has become capable of more flexibly adapting to changing external situations so that it can, as an example, walk over an uneven surface while maintaining a stable posture.
3. Improved task-performing capability
Honda has developed a highly functional compact multi-fingered hand, which has a tactile sensor and a force sensor imbedded on the palm and in each finger, respectively, and which acts to control each finger independently. Combined with the object recognition technology based on visual and tactile senses, this multi-fingered hand enables the all-new ASIMO to perform tasks with dexterity, such as picking up a glass bottle and twisting off the cap, or holding a soft paper cup to pour a liquid without squishing it. Moreover, ASIMO is now capable of making sign language expressions which require the complex movement of fingers.
| Key specifications of the all-new ASIMO | |
| 1. Height | 130 cm |
| 2. Weight | 48kg (decreased 6kg from previous model) |
| 3. Operating degrees | Total: 57 degrees of freedom (increase of 23 degrees of freedom from previous model) |
| 4. Running Speed | 9km/hour (previous model: 6km/hour) |
Establishing a collective name, Honda Robotics, to represent Honda's robotics technologies and product applications
Studying human beings to understand people and learn from people is the root of Honda's manufacturing. While positioning the humanoid robot research as one of the important pillars in the area of studying human beings, Honda has been working to realize various functions of a human being that is the ultimate mobility with intelligence.
Honda newly established a collective term, Honda Robotics, and the logo to represent Honda's robotics technologies and application products created through its research and development of humanoid robot represented by ASIMO.
In addition to the all-new ASIMO and the task-performing robot arm introduced today, the previously introduced the walking assist device with stride management system which supports walking for people with weakened leg muscles, the bodyweight support assist system which reduces the load on legs by supporting part of the bodyweight, and the U3-X, a compact one-wheel-drive mobility device that provides free movement in all directions, are examples of product applications resulting from the application of bipedal technology and balance control technology amassed through the research and development of ASIMO.
Striving to offer next-generation mobility products which expand the joy and fun of mobility, Honda will continue the robotics research that leads to ASIMO, walking assist devices, U3-X and other technologies. In addition, Honda will also work proactively toward putting such product applications into practical use.
Task-performing Robot Arm
Technologies developed for ASIMO were applied to an experimental model of a task-performing robot arm, which moves on a self-propelled base and was designed under the assumption of being utilized at disaster sites or other places too dangerous for people to work. Toward this end, the robot arm was made possible to be remotely controlled to approach the object and stably perform necessary tasks even in a narrow space with unstable footing and many obstacles.
The stability control technology used for ASIMO's walking and running was applied to stabilize the posture of the end of the arm even on an unstable surface so that the robot arm can exert the necessary power output to perform the task. Moreover, the application of other ASIMO technologies such as the compact layout structural designing technique and multi-joint simultaneous orbit control technology that simultaneously controls as many as 57 motors imbedded in the joints of the arms and legs has enabled the robot arm to avoid obstacles and approach an object even in a narrow space with obstacles such as a complicated layout of pipelines.
In the development process, the robot arm is designed to perform the task of opening and closing valves on pipelines; however, it will become capable of performing a variety of tasks by changing the end piece of the arm.
Courtesy of Honda
Monday, November 7, 2011
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Honda's 'Sweet Dreams' Float to Lead 2012 Rose Parade
Honda's 2012 Rose Parade float entry, "Sweet Dreams," will lead the 123rd Rose Parade, Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, and introduce "Just Imagine…" as this year's Parade theme. Honda's float celebrates childlike imagination and Honda's belief in The Power of Dreams. This year marks Honda's 51st year of collaboration with the Tournament of Roses® and second year as presenting sponsor. Honda's new electric vehicle, the Honda Fit EV, will be the parade's official pace car.
"The creativity and imagination represented in the Honda float will truly capture the spirit of the 123rd Rose Parade theme, 'Just Imagine…,'" said Tournament of Roses president Richard W. Jackson. "I'm looking forward to 'Sweet Dreams' leading the Parade on January 2."
Parade-watchers will witness a 55-foot-long vision of a child's dreamlike imagination in which anything is possible. Sheep jump over a smiling crescent moon under a fanciful starry sky, leading to dreams of candy and gingerbread castles, hot air balloons, unicorns and a favorite teddy bear. In a rare encore performance, replicas of three past award-winning Honda floats are represented: a dreamy race car ("The Power of Dreams," 2003), the longest float in Rose Parade history ("Families across America," 2005) and a fanciful sailing ship that pays tribute to Honda's philanthropic activity ("Ship of Dreams," 2010). Representing more than just dreams of the past, the float also looks to the future with replicas of Honda's innovative products and technologies – the HondaJet – and ASIMO, the world's most advanced humanoid robot.
"The Rose Parade is Honda's opportunity to wish a happy New Year to everyone watching the Parade whether along the route or on television," said Stephan Morikawa, assistant vice president of American Honda Corporate Community Relations. "It's also a chance to work with the Tournament to showcase Honda's imaginative, innovative technologies."
In a parade first, the replicas of the HondaJet, "Families across America" and "Ship of Dreams" will be satellite units ranging from 13-feet-long to 26-feet-long propelled by Honda ATVs that will move independently of the main float unit. For the second straight year, Honda's main float will be propelled by a specially configured hybrid, low-emission engine to help the float function more efficiently and reduce its carbon footprint.
The Honda float and satellite units include a variety of flowers, plants and seeds that will later be ground up for mulch after the parade activities are concluded. Some of the flowers that will be used include white mums, white orchids, white roses, white everlasting, strawflower, lavender mums and roses, and blue irises combined with cotton, pampas grass, blue statice and orange lentil seeds.
Honda first collaborated with the Tournament of Roses in 1961 to provide two-wheeled vehicles for 1962 Parade operations. Honda has been a float participant in the Rose Parade since 1977 and has also served as the official Tournament of Roses vehicle since 1994. As presenting sponsor, the Honda float will lead the Parade and introduce the theme every year. It will not be a commercial entry and will not be part of the judging process. Prior to becoming presenting sponsor in 2011, Honda floats won awards 15 of the previous 16 years.
Courtesy of Honda
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Honda to Debut Two All-New Models at the Los Angeles Auto Show
Courtesy of Honda
Honda: Environmental Technology
Honda has long been recognized as a global leader in reducing the environmental impact of internal combustion engines through improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, and Honda Power Equipment is proud to contribute to that legacy. Powered exclusively by four-stroke engines, Honda Power Equipment products are quiet and fuel efficient.
Corporate Leadership
Honda recognizes that the preservation of natural resources is not only a corporate responsibility but also an important company fundamental. Reducing the burden on the environment at every stage in a product's life cycle - from research and development through manufacture, sale, usage, and disposal - is at the core of Honda's corporate culture and philosophy.
Beyond its desire to develop cleaner products, Honda also seeks to reduce the environmental impact of all of its activities. Launched in 1998, Honda's Green Factory planning concept is the foundation of the company's environmentally forward-thinking manufacturing practices, which seek to minimize factory emissions and waste throughout the manufacturing process. Further, Honda's environmental commitment is reflected in its portfolio of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certifications. The company's facilities throughout Japan and its major manufacturing facilities around the world have obtained ISO 14001 certification - an internationally recognized set of standards for environmental management systems.
Environmental Technology Milestones
Developing cleaner products is not a new mandate for Honda. Coupled with world-class quality and technology, Honda has routinely incorporated environmentally-focused features into its products for more than 40 years. A few examples include:
- Since 1964 Honda has manufactured only four-stroke outboard motors. Cleaner, more fuel-efficient and quieter than traditional two-stroke outboards, four-stroke motors also do not release oil directly into the water;
- In 1972 Honda introduced the Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion (CVCC) engine. The CVCC was the first automobile engine capable of meeting the 1970 Clean Air Act without the weight, cost, and complexity of a catalytic converter;
- In 1997 Honda entered the handheld power-equipment market with a noticeably quiet and fuel-efficient trimmer/brush cutter powered by the world's first 360-degree inclinable mini-four-stroke engine;
- In 1998 Honda became the first company to introduce an entire line of high-performance outboard motors that met the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) year 2006 emission standards;
- In 2000 Honda became the first auto company to receive the EPA's Climate Protection Award for development of the Honda Insight, the first gas-electric hybrid vehicle sold in the United States;
- In 2002 Honda became the first automaker in the world to market a fuel cell vehicle certified by the U.S. EPA and the state of California. The 2005 Honda FCX also features its own fuel cell stack capable of cold weather operation;
- In 2003 Honda introduced the HRX lawnmower, the first to enable simultaneous distribution of grass clippings to both the bag and the ground with no additional equipment. Whether the user chooses to mulch, compost or dispose of the bagged clippings, all of the options provided by the HRX are better for the environment than conventional clipping disposal;
- In 2005 Honda introduced the iGX engine, a revolutionary, intelligent, computer-controlled general purpose engine. Representing a first in the power equipment industry, the iGX features an integrated electronic control unit (ECU) that delivers complete drive-by-wire remote control capability and controls key aspects of engine operation.
Honda's Global CO2 Emissions Reduction Target
Honda has established 2020 CO2 emissions reduction targets to address the most important business management issues of climate change and energy issues.
Honda has been pursuing its own environmental targets and is committed to proactive environmental conservation activities. In 2006, Honda set a goal to reduce global CO2 emissions from use of its motorcycles, automobiles and power products by 10 percent by the end of 2010 compared to year 2000 levels. In 2010, the goal was attained by all products.
Honda now has set a target to reduce CO2 emissions from its global products by 30 percent by the end of 2020 compared to year 2000 levels. Furthermore, in addition to reducing CO2 emissions during production and supply chain, Honda will strengthen its efforts to realize reductions in CO2 emissions through its entire corporate activities. Honda also will strengthen its efforts in advancing technologies in the area of total energy management - to reduce CO2 emissions through mobility and people's everyday lives.
Blue Skies for Our Children
Honda engineers, who took on the challenge to meet the stringent new emissions standards of the 1970s U.S. Clean Air Act, used the phrase "blue skies for our children" as a passionate rallying cry to devote themselves to this effort. Honda wants to pass on the "joy and freedom of mobility to the next generation (for our children), therefore, we want to realize a sustainable society where people can enjoy life (blue skies). This slogan continues to represent Honda's passion toward its environmental commitment which has not wavered and will remain resolute in the future.
Global Environmental Symbol
The circular graphic represents the earth and sun with blue skies (clean air), clean water, and lush green land expressing the bounty of nature that is necessary (for us) to realize a sustainable society where people can enjoy life. The white line through the middle represents a road where freedom of mobility is realized, while the heart represents Honda's thinking and passion toward (our) environmental commitment.
The Honda Environment Statement
As a responsible member of society determined to help preserve the global environment, Honda makes concerted efforts to contribute to human health and preservation of the global environment in each phase of its corporate activities and to stay at the forefront of such endeavors.
Courtesy of Honda
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Final Eight HBCU Bands Chosen for 10th Annual Honda Battle of the Bands
Following are the HBCU marching bands that will earn a $20,000 grant for their music education programs and an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2012 Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase:
Albany State University "Marching Rams Show Band" (Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference)
Bethune Cookman University "Marching Wildcats" (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference)
Jackson State University "Sonic Boom of the South" (Southwestern Athletic Conference)
Prairie View A&M University "Marching Storm" (Southwestern Athletic Conference)
South Carolina State University "Marching 101" (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference)
Tennessee State University "Aristocrat of Bands" (Independent)
Virginia State University "Marching Trojan Explosion" (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association)
Winston-Salem State University "Red Sea of Sound" (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association)
For the eight winning bands, the journey to the Invitational Showcase involved months of practice and training, all in preparation for their Georgia Dome performances, where each band will have 12 dazzling minutes to showcase the musical excellence, distinctive style and superior showmanship that earned them a place in the 2012 Invitational Showcase. The Showcase bands are chosen via online voting, with votes by fans, students and alumni accounting for one-third of the selection criteria, and band directors and school presidents accounting for the balance of the selection process.
This year's event theme, "The Homecoming," reflects on the 10th anniversary of the Honda Battle of the Bands and calls for all HBCU marching band alumni, current HBCU students and the many fans of the event to meet in Atlanta for this special anniversary showcase event. The homecoming theme also highlights the importance of marching band culture to black college homecoming celebrations.
We are excited to be celebrating 10 years of the Honda Battle of the Bands as we continue to support the music education programs of our nation's HBCUs" said Marc Burt, senior manager, Office of Inclusion and Diversity for American Honda. "We hope that Black college marching band fans and alumni will attend this year's Invitational Showcase as we anticipate a great community turnout and even greater performances by the top eight HBCU marching bands."
The Honda Battle of the Bands website is the sole online destination and clearing house for all HBOB information, updates, polling status, photos and video footage, and is a one-stop resource for all questions about the program. Fans are encouraged to also follow Honda Battle of the Bands on Twitter (@the_honda) and to become a fan of the Facebook page (Honda Battle of the Bands) where they can share memories, photos and engage in trivia, and get updates on the 2012 program.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Upgraded 2012 Honda Insight Hybrid Offers New High-Tech Look, Improved Fuel Economy and More Features
The Insight’s city/highway/combined EPA fuel economy rating1 of 41/44/42 mpg, up from 40/43/41 on the prior model, continues to offer the highest EPA fuel economy rating of any new vehicle currently available with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting under $20,000.
The aerodynamically styled, five-passenger, five-door dedicated hybrid vehicle receives extensive changes inside and out for 2012. Exterior changes include a more distinctive grille design that introduces a thin, blue accent bar representative of the Insight’s high-tech hybrid identity. Restyled front and rear bumpers, along with changes under the vehicle, contribute to a 2-percent increase in aerodynamic performance. New designs for the headlight and brake light internal reflectors further complete the refreshed look. Insight and Insight LX models have new 15-inch wheel covers and the Insight EX has newly styled 15-inch alloy wheels. Slightly wider 185/60R15 tires, up from 175/65R15 tires on the prior model, contribute to confident driving performance.
The Insight’s interior refinements for 2012 include a reconfigured rear seat area for better leg and head room; a redesigned gauge cluster background with a more technically sophisticated appearance; reshaped center-console beverage holders that accommodate larger drinks; and a more supportive front armrest (Insight LX and EX).
The Insight LX has new, more premium seat fabric, while the Insight EX is upholstered with a combination of synthetic leather (new) and premium fabric. Rear-seat headroom improves by 0.6 inches with changes to the rear headliner shape and deeper sculpting of the rear seat cushion to improve rear passenger comfort. Rearward visibility improves with a more compactly mounted rear-wiper motor housing and a thinner rear spoiler that creates a larger viewing area out the lower back window. The Insight becomes quieter for 2012 with increased thickness to the vehicle’s existing noise-insulation materials and additional insulation panels in the cargo area.
Available on Insight EX models, the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with voice recognition2 receives several notable upgrades including the addition of a rearview camera. The system provides routing and guidance to individual addresses and more than 7-million points of interest within the continental United States. A 16-GB flash memory system replaces the 4.7-GB DVD-based system used on the prior model. The new system offers faster route calculation and includes FM traffic, a subscription-free service that alerts drivers to traffic conditions.
The Insight is powered by an Integrated Motor Assist™ (IMA™) system comprised of a 1.3-liter i‑VTEC® gasoline 4-cylinder engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor. The combination develops 98 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 123 lb-ft. of torque at 1000-1700 rpm. For 2012, friction-reducing measures in the engine and the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) contribute to the new model’s increased fuel economy. A 10.6-gallon fuel tank provides an estimated maximum driving range exceeding 400 miles.
The Insight features the Eco Assist™ System, an innovation that can enhance efficient vehicle operation while providing feedback related to individual driving styles. Eco Assist can help drivers improve fuel efficiency, both by altering vehicle functionality and providing driver feedback, with fuel economy dependent on their given set of driving conditions. Pressing the ECON button can further enhance the efficiency of multiple vehicle systems: throttle control, CVT operation, idle-stop duration, air conditioning and cruise-control operation (if equipped). Eco Assist also provides feedback about driving style via a 3D-like background within the speedometer. The background changes colors from green to blue to reflect how efficiently or inefficiently the driver is accelerating or braking (green is more efficient).
Aerodynamic refinements for 2012 include changes to the shape of the engine bay underbody cover and the addition of air diffusers under the rear bumper to smooth airflow exiting behind the vehicle. The strakes ahead of the front wheels have been extended by 0.4 inches to better direct air around the wider front tires.
Standard safety features on all Insight models include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbag system; anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD); driver’s and front-passenger’s active head restraints; and a front body structure designed to mitigate pedestrian injuries. The Insight also features Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which provides improved occupant protection and crash compatibility between vehicles of different sizes and ride heights in frontal crashes.
The 2012 Insight is offered in three distinct models. The value-oriented base model, simply designated as "Insight," is well equipped with a 160-watt, two-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, power windows, remote entry and more.
The Insight LX adds a four-speaker audio system, USB audio interface, armrest console, floor mats and a security system. New for 2012, the LX has map lights and steering wheel audio controls.
The Insight EX adds alloy wheels, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, an audio system with six speakers, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals and much more. For 2012, the EX gains Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®3, automatic headlights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The Insight EX is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition and rearview camera.
New exterior colors include Frosted Silver Metallic and Truffle Pearl, which replace Clear Sky Blue and Crimson Pearl.
Insight accolades include J.D. Power and Associates "Highest Ranked Compact Car in Initial Quality in a Tie" in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS) (the Insight tied with the Civic). The IQS names the highest performers within the first 90 days of vehicle ownership. And for the past three consecutive years, the Insight was named a Top 10 Green Car by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com4. The Insight was also named one of the "Greenest Vehicles of 2011" by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE).
Honda is a leader in developing cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicle technologies, including the original Honda Insight, introduced as America’s first mass-produced hybrid car in December 1999. Honda is also a leader in the development of advanced alternatives to gasoline, including the zero-emission, hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity fuel-cell electric car, the world’s most-advanced production fuel cell automobile.
Honda’s diverse lineup of environmental vehicles also includes the Civic Natural Gas sedan, the only retail CNG passenger vehicle currently available from any automaker in the U.S., and three distinct gasoline-electric hybrid models: Civic Hybrid, CR-Z sport hybrid and Insight hybrid.
Honda was named America's "Greenest Automaker" for the fifth consecutive time by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) in late 2010. The award is earned by the company with the lowest combined score of its smog-forming and greenhouse gas emissions (primarily CO2) in its U.S. automobile fleet. Honda has led the UCS rankings of overall vehicle environmental performance since the first UCS study in 2000, marking a decade of Honda leadership in reduced vehicle emissions. Honda earned the recognition with an industry-best score based on model year 2008 data, the latest available for analysis.
Courtesy of Honda
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Monday, October 17, 2011
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
We would like to thank Claude for writing this review. Way to go team!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Monday, October 10, 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
2012 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe Promotes Performance and Fuel Economy
The CR-Z is available in two models – the well-equipped CR-Z and the feature-rich CR-Z EX. A six-speed manual transmission is standard equipment and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is available. Standard features on the CR-Z include Vehicle Stability Assist, an AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry, cruise control, and more.
The CR-Z EX adds High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights with Auto-On/Off, fog lights, a 360-Watt AM/FM/CD Premium Audio System with seven speakers including subwoofer, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more. The CR-Z EX is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System3 with voice recognition.
Technological Sophistication Inside and Out
The exterior’s “one-motion” wedge form begins at its low-slung hood to form a broad forward stance. A side profile with a deeply inset beltline adds a dynamic element, while the short wheelbase and large, wide front grille accent the vehicle’s athletic look. Exterior colors include Crystal Black Pearl, Milano Red Pearl, North Shore Blue Metallic (exclusive to CR-Z), Premium White Pearl and Storm Silver Metallic.
A high-tech appearance and intuitive controls define the interior. Instrument panel meters illuminate with a three-dimensional blue color theme resulting in a multi-layered appearance. Set against textured black materials and aluminum-style trim accents, the upper portion of the dashboard extends toward the driver to provide a wraparound cockpit environment. Premium sport-oriented seats are designed to provide firm lateral support along with everyday driving comfort. A mid-ship console behind the front seats optimizes cargo space, and a hard-shell separator can be closed to create additional hidden storage.
The CR-Z features a six-speaker, 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with an auxiliary input jack for connection to a portable audio player, and all models include a USB audio interface4 for connecting an iPod5 or other compatible audio device. Other audio features include speed-sensitive volume control and CD/MP3 text readout. The radio data system shows supplemental programming information from participating radio stations while also offering search-by-genre capability (not available on the CR-Z EX with navigation).
The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™3 is available on the CR-Z EX model and features a 6.5-inch display. The navigation system database includes more than 7-million points of interest and integrates the audio system. The voice recognition feature is capable of inputting numbers, street names and cities, in addition to more than 600 commands. Data storage is via a single DVD that contains information for the entire United States.
Performance and Efficiency
The CR-Z hybrid powertrain is a unique variation of Honda’s original IMA technology , which originally debuted on the 2000 Honda Insight, the first hybrid vehicle available for sale in North America. The system utilizes a four-cylinder, 16-valve, single-overhead cam engine with “intelligent” Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) that receives additional power from the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system’s DC brushless electric motor. The system delivers a combined peak output of 122 horsepower at 6000 RPM and 128 lb-ft. of torque at 1000 to 1750 RPM (123 lb-ft. at 1000 to 2000 on CVT-equipped models).
The 10-kilowatt electric motor assists in acceleration and also acts as a generator during braking or coasting to capture kinetic energy that recharges the 100-volt IMA nickel-metal hydride battery pack. The gasoline engine can automatically turn off during vehicle stops to improve efficiency. When starting on steep inclines from a stop with the manual transmission, hill start assist temporarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards during the moment between releasing the brake, depressing the throttle and releasing the clutch.
EPA-estimated fuel economy6 is 35/39/37 city/highway/combined mpg on CVT-equipped models and 31/37/34 city/highway/combined mpg on manual models. The CR-Z is rated as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) in states that adhere to California Air Resource Board (CARB) ZEV standards (EPA Tier 2, Bin 2 in all states).
Three-Mode Drive System
Activated via three backlit buttons to the left of the steering wheel, the three-mode drive system allows the driver to select between individual modes of performance for Sport, Normal and Economy driving styles:
- Sport mode enhances engine throttle responsiveness, electric power steering effort and the electric motor power assist.
- Normal mode standardizes steering, engine response, motor assist and air conditioning settings.
- Econ mode can increase the potential for enhanced fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle angle for smooth acceleration, lower engine rpm and limiting power and torque by approximately 4 percent (except at wide-open throttle). It can also reduce the air conditioning’s overall load on the engine and modify the cruise control to operate more efficiently.
Safety by Design
The CR-Z demonstrates a commitment to safety in its design and construction. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure helps protect vehicle occupants in a frontal collision. Additional safety technologies include: standard dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags, active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system (ABS); a tire pressure monitoring system; and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle.
Sport-Tuned Chassis
The front MacPherson strut and rear H-shaped torsion beam suspension are tuned to provide a sporty driving experience. All models are equipped with 16x6-inch aluminum wheels with 195/55R16 86V tires, while accessory 17x7 alloy wheels with 205/45R17 84V tires are available. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) uses ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. The low vehicle height and placement of the battery and other hybrid components beneath the rear cargo area further contribute to a low center of gravity and responsive, sporty handling. Electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering enhances steering performance and improves efficiency.
Warranty
The 2012 Honda CR-Z is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile new-car limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion limited warranty.
Press Release and photo via Honda
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