Honda Civic Hybrid

The completely redesigned 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid, the most economical and environmentally responsible gasoline powered Civic ever, has won the World Car of the Year Award for greenest car, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced. A jury of 46 international automotive journalists selected the 2006 Civic Hybrid, which achieves an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 49/51 miles per gallon, as the winner of the 2006 World Green Car.

"Honda continues to be a leader in producing environmentally responsible vehicles that set the standard for fuel economy and low emissions," said John Mendel, Senior Vice President, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The award-winning 2006 Civic Hybrid is the latest embodiment of Honda's long-term commitment to the development of environmentally friendly technologies that are also fun to drive."

Characterized by advanced new styling, Honda's all-new Civic Hybrid also offers the latest in safety technology, as well an array of standard features, such as multiple audio entertainment choices, that increase content and value.

Equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard equipment for 2006, the Civic Hybrid can now deactivate all four of its cylinders and operate using only the electric motor in certain steady-state cruising situations. Compared to the 2006 Civic Sedan with an automatic transmission, the Civic Hybrid provides a city fuel economy increase of approximately 63 percent and a highway fuel economy increase of 27 percent.

Standard features on all 2006 Civic Hybrids include:
• Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) Body Structure
• 1.3-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 20 horsepower electric motor (combined 110-horsepower @ 6000 rpm and 123 lb-ft. torque @1000-2500 rpm)
• New lighter, more powerful and efficient Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system with greatly enhanced energy regeneration capability and electric-only operation
• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) as standard equipment
• 49/51 mpg city/highway*
• AT-PZEV emission technology in all 50 states
• Exclusive interior styling includes IMA instrument panel meters, two-tone seating surfaces and new blue interior option

Honda first introduced U.S. consumers to hybrid technology with the Insight in December 1999. It launched its second hybrid vehicle, the Civic Hybrid, in March 2002, followed by the first-ever V6-powered hybrid, the Accord Hybrid, in December 2004.

Source: Honda Press Releases

Honda CR-Z Concept

'CR-Z' stands for 'Compact Renaissance Zero' - an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals.

This design research model of a lightweight hybrid sports car features advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle's environmental footprint.

Exterior design
Designed to be 'Futuristic and Dynamic', the CR-Z combines powerful performance in a compact form with a futuristic image. For its frontal view, an over-sized grill with a high-performance look is offset by openings on each side that lighten the overall feel. In the rear, tube-shaped rear combination lamps ensure better rearward visibility. Design details emphasising the CR-Z's advanced image include door mirrors that provide high visibility in a stylish form, LED headlights patterned after luminous bodies to convey a sharp impression, and jauntyfin-shaped sub-lights. Large, 19-inch wheels are ready for dynamic driving performance.

Interior design
The key words for the CR-Z's interior design are 'Hi-tech and Sporty'. The goal was to create an all-new sporty interior that fuses the liberating feel of airy spaciousness with an advanced interface that brings out the fun of the drive. Mesh material on a simple framework construction is used throughout the interior to convey a light, sophisticated image without being oppressive. In the cockpit, the meter unit conveys the image of advanced technology ensconced in a piece of glass artwork, offering the functionality of immediate recognition while enhancing the driving experience with a futuristic and exhilarating feeling.

Source: Honda Press Releases

Honda Civic Si Sedan Concept

The Civic Si Sedan Concept provides strong hints of the styling and performance for a production Civic Si Sedan scheduled to go on sale this fall, marking the first time that "Si" performance has become available in the Civic Sedan. Similar to the recently introduced Civic Si Coupe, the production Civic Si Sedan will serve as another performance leader for the Civic line-up with a 197-horsepower (147 kW), 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC engine with an 8,000 rpm redline, mated to a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission. Helping to put all that power to the ground is a helical-type, limited slip differential for improved traction and cornering performance.

The Civic Si Sedan Concept features custom 18-inch cast aluminium alloy wheels, 225/40ZR18 high-performance tires, and 4-wheel disc brakes with large cross-drilled brake rotors and 4-piston Brembo callipers.

"The Civic Si Sedan Concept demonstrates how the high-performance attributes of the Civic Si Coupe can be directly applied to the functionality of a sedan," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda.

A production vehicle based on the Civic Si Sedan Concept will go on sale this fall. The 2007 Civic Si Sedan will mark a further evolution of Civic Si's sixth generation alongside the Civic Si Coupe – and will be the first time a Civic Si is available in two body styles. The Civic Si first appeared in 1986 with subsequent Civic Si models appearing in 1989, 1992, 1999 and 2002.

The Civic Si Concept (coupe version) made its debut at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show, preceding the introduction of the all-new 2006 Civic Si, Civic Hybrid, Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe. The Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan will both complement the Civic line-up with features designed to appeal to true enthusiasts seeking a high level of performance and value.

The all-new 2006 Honda Civic has attracted a high level of acclaim, including Motor Trend magazine's prestigious 2006 Car of the Year award and the 2006 North American Car of the Year award.

Source: Honda Press Releases

Honda Civic Type S

Honda Motor Europe Ltd recently announced the new Civic Type S, a 3-door hatchback which is the latest model in the transformation of Honda's iconic C-segment brand into a premium, individual, sporty range. Sales are expected to commence in early 2007.

This new model makes its world debut at the British International Motor Show, to be held at ExCeL, London, in July 2006.

Sharing the same dynamic silhouette and overall dimensions as the acclaimed 5-door model, the Civic Type S further emphasizes the Civic's sporty and fun-to-drive direction to appeal to a young audience. The styling is therefore more assertive and the suspension is tuned for sharper chassis dynamics, with revised spring and damper settings and a 20mm wider rear track.

Further emphasising its sporty nature, the Civic Type S is powered by either a 1.8 litre petrol engine or a 2.2 litre diesel engine, both of which produce 103kW/140PS and are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Two model grades will be offered. The extensive specification of the standard Type S includes 17 inch alloys, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), air conditioning, cool box, remote audio controls and side curtain airbags. The Type S Plus adds dual zone air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, retractable mirrors, automatic wipers and automatic headlamps. Certain markets also gain HID headlamps, heated front seats and a panorama glass roof.

Sculpted and fully integrated side skirts flare outwards towards front and rear wheels and seamlessly blend into the wheel arch surrounds, familiar from the 5-door model. These in turn flow into the front and rear spoilers to complete the lower body structure, all of which is finished in a gun metallic colour for added visual appeal. The deep front air intake, together with the 17 inch alloy wheels and wider rear track provide the Type S with a particularly muscular and planted look.

Black Alcantara seating and a leather trimmed steering wheel, both with silver stitching, plus aluminium pedals, set the tone for the equally sporty interior. Large seat bolsters provide reassuring support during cornering.

The cabin is focused around the unique and visually arresting Dual Link concept fascia introduced on the 5-door model. Key driving information, including vehicle speed, is displayed in the upper part of the instrument panel, while other information is provided in the lower section. This design is particularly effective in presenting information without compromising the driver's concentration on the road.

The Civic's coupe-like styling has not compromised the cabin space. The interior instead succeeds in providing a high degree of flexibility and passenger accommodation. The distance between the hip point of front and rear passengers at 803 mm, for example, equates to that in higher segment cars.

The rear seats also incorporate Honda's familiar one-motion, dive-down feature that instantaneously creates a flat loading space of a spacious 485 litres, mirroring that of the 5-door model. The cargo floor can also be dropped down to reveal an under-floor compartment. A centrally positioned fuel tank located beneath the front seats, rather than impinging on the luggage area, plays a key role in achieving this packaging efficiency.

The comprehensive safety features include ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution with brake assist, VSA, front and side SRS airbags, full length side curtain airbags, double seatbelt pre-tensioners on both front seats and active headrests. The instrument display also features an innovative seatbelt reminder for both front and rear seat passengers. Honda anticipates a Euro NCAP result of 5 stars for front and side impact safety, 3 stars for pedestrian safety and 4 stars for child protection safety, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

The Civic Type S forms the basis for the forthcoming Civic Type R, which is scheduled to be launched in early 2007. While the reputation of its predecessor makes it a tough act to follow, the new model will offer greater sophistication without compromising the Type R philosophy of exhilarating performance achieved through advanced engineering. More details will be provided when the Civic Type R makes its debut at the Paris Motor Show later this year.

Source: Honda Press Releases

Honda Stream

Honda recently announced the release of an all-new Stream. Featuring a low-floor platform, the new Stream combines stylish compact exterior with a comfortable interior and powerful driving performance. With a low overall height of 1,545mm, the new Stream has a modern dynamic look and fits conveniently into most restricted-height mechanical parking lots. The new Stream will go on sale from Friday, July 14 at Honda automobile dealers throughout Japan.

The new, second-generation Stream is a 7-passenger car with the versatility and functionality to make getting around a true pleasure. Along with its vibrant, low-slung styling, it delivers total comfort and a feeling of integration wherever the driver and passengers come in contact with the vehicle - whether getting in and out, steering, throttle response, or changing the seat arrangements.

Body frame rigidity has been enhanced for improved driving performance, and the front sub-pillars have been eliminated to attain a significant increase in visibility. The floor design has also been significantly improved to create a flat foot area from corner to corner and a significantly lower floor for the third row of seats. These innovations mean improved passenger comfort as well as a lower center of gravity for superior handling. Both powerplants-the newly developed 2.0l i-VTEC engine with CVT and the 1.8l i-VTEC engine with 5-speed automatic transmission-deliver powerful, smooth driving performance from low-to-mid speeds.

The sporty RSZ, available in both 2.0-litre and 1.8-litre versions, comes equipped with 17-inch aluminium wheels and a custom-tuned suspension for extra driving enjoyment. The RSZ’s custom aerodynamic parts, black interior, and other attractive design features combine to enhance the car’s sporty driving image.

All models have earned Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport certification as Low-Emissions Vehicles, with emission levels 75% lower than those required by 2005 standards, while the front-wheel-drive models exceed Japanese government fuel economy standards for 2010 by 10%.

The new Stream is also available with the most advanced Honda safety technologies, including IHCC2 (Intelligent Highway Cruise Control), which controls vehicle speed and distance to the car ahead to reduce the burden on the driver, and CMBS2 (Collision Mitigation Brake System) + E-pretensioners2, which uses millimetre wave radar technology to detect the possibility of a collision and then help avoid or reduce the force of the collision.

Source: Honda News Releases

Honda RDX Prototype

Sporty SUV features Honda's first ever turbocharged engine and super handling AWD vehicle.

The highly anticipated Honda RDX Prototype SUV debuted at the North American International Auto Show on the 9th of January 2006. Combining sport utility with sports sedan handling and performance, RDX features an innovative 2.3 litre four cylinder turbocharged engine, Honda's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel DriveTM (SH-AWDTM), and is designed to redefine the entry premium SUV segment. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new RDX that will go on sale mid this year in the US.

"The RDX Prototype represents the forward thinking that will be seen in the next generation of Honda light trucks," said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. "It is loaded with leading edge technology and it exemplifies what we call intelligent performance: a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that has outstanding performance yet is also fuel efficient."

RDX features an all-new 2.3-litre i-VTEC(R) four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque (179kW / 352Nm). This is the first application of forced induction technology in Honda history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the all-aluminium high-performance engine, the RDX utilizes Honda's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShiftTM automatic transmission.

Honda's Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the new RDX platform. SH-AWD's sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance control.

The RDX is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Honda's commitment to safety through innovation, the RDX is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility EngineeringTM (ACETM) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while at the same time increasing compatibility with other vehicles in a frontal collision. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors add an extra measure of safety.

The chiselled exterior styling combines with a generous greenhouse to provide excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. RDX employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Honda signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.

Inside, the RDX combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver-oriented cockpit. The center console features an innovative storage system, which allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype's interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Honda Navigation System with Voice RecognitionTM, HondaLinkTM satellite communication system with real time traffic and HandsFreeLinkTM wireless telephone interface. A premium Honda/ELSTM DVD-Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.

The RDX offers seating for five and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.

The RDX will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio and will go on-sale mid 2006 in the US. Pricing has not been determined.

Note: The RDX is sold through the Acura brand in the US.

Source: Honda News Releases

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a highly-versatile four-door entry crossover SUV with a spacious five-passenger interior, sedan-like handling and ride comfort, and a reputation for offering the highest levels of standard safety features in the segment. The all-new 2007 Honda CR-V injects a dynamic sense of style and refinement, bridging the space between sport and utility better than any CR-V yet - while adding collision compatibility safety enhancements like Honda's exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) Body Structure.

Cloaked with distinctive and dynamic exterior styling, the 2007 CR-V debuts with a wide assortment of new technology and standard comfort and convenience features. The sophisticated interior design delivers near-luxury style along with improved refinement. The highly acclaimed Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System(TM) with voice recognition and rear view camera is available on the CR-V for the first time.

Top-of-class standard safety equipment includes side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front head restraints, Vehicle Stability Assist(TM) (VSA(R)), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

"The original CR-V helped establish the crossover entry SUV segment with its practical size and amazing utility," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "For 2007, Honda has built on the CR-V's best strengths and added a new dimension of first-class style and refinement."

A highly rigid body and fully independent suspension result in a quiet cabin and smooth, agile handling performance. The 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and standard 5-speed automatic transmission provide an excellent balance of power (166-horsepower) and fuel economy (EPA-rated 23/30 city/highway mpg, 2WD).

A dynamic and emotional forward cabin blends the familiar CR-V identity into a sculpted lower body with a rugged lower body appearance. A new double grille and a side profile with an arched window shape accent the CR-V's distinctive and upscale presence. Adding to the clean lines, the spare tire now resides under the rear floor as opposed to the exterior of the tailgate; benefiting aesthetics, visibility and garage-ability.

The previous generation CR-V (2002 - 2006) set a new standard for vehicle safety when the 2002 CR-V became one of the first few vehicles ever to earn the federal government's top five-star crash safety rating for both frontal and side impacts. The 2007 CR-V builds on Honda's industry-leading emphasis on safety and outdistances the competition by implementing new technology and features that go beyond conventional industry standards with innovations such as the ACE Body Structure and a pedestrian safety design, just to name two.

The 2007 CR-V has an entirely new body design. The exterior width has increased by 1.4 inches to 71.6 inches while the body length has decreased by 3.1 inches (due mostly to the relocation of the spare tire from the rear bumper to underneath the rear cargo area). The length of the vehicle minus the spare tire remains nearly the same.

The unit-body construction features extensive use of strategically strengthened areas with expanded use of high strength steel to provide high levels of rigidity. Improved NVH was also targeted and the new model features extensive use of the latest noise absorption materials to help reduce engine and road noise for an ultra-quiet cabin.

Comprised of a front MacPherson strut layout and a rear multi-link suspension, the highly rigid body and independent suspension offer an engaging driving experience rare for this class of vehicle.

The CR-V is available in three trim levels - the well-equipped LX, the fully-featured EX and the upscale EX-L.

Note: European model shown

Source: Honda News Releases

Honda Remix Concept

The Honda Remix small sport concept vehicle made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Remix explores the shape and design of a two seat sports car focused on agile and fun to drive performance that can also provide exceptional practicality as a daily driver.

Sports car in shape and design, the low slung Remix features a wrap around canopy that adds a fighter jet feel to the driving experience. The aluminium colour exterior accentuates every line and curve in the geometric, yet fluid styling. Capable of delivering more than just driving performance, the rear storage area supplies generous cargo room.

"Pure Honda to the core, the Remix concept vehicle focuses on a simple, lightweight and fun to drive philosophy," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The concept balances sports car virtues with real world practicality."

The Remix Small Sport Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Americas, Inc., Advanced Design Studio in Southern California. Purely a design concept, the vehicle is fashioned around a front wheel drive small car platform with a 4 cylinder engine and a 6 speed manual transmission. A sport suspension, along with aggressive tyres and brakes, further supplement its performance side.

"The Remix blends familiar Honda themes into a new, fresh design," said Ben Davidson, Remix lead designer, Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "Smooth and fluid surfaces provide a sports car identity to the geometric shapes that form the functional aspect of this vehicle."

Honda R&D Americas, Inc., began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 30 years to include all aspects of new vehicle design and development. Recent development efforts include trend setting products like the Honda Ridgeline, Pilot, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si.

The company will operate 10 major facilities in North America with the addition of two new design centres by the end of 2007. More than 1,300 designers, engineers and support personnel are engaged in the development of Honda and Acura passenger cars, motorcycles and power equipment products for North America and global markets. Its main centres of operation include the Los Angeles Centre (Torrance) responsible for market research, concept development and styling design; the Ohio Centre (Raymond, Ohio) responsible for complete product development, testing and support of North American supplier and manufacturing operations; and two dynamic test facilities in Mojave Desert, California, and East Liberty, Ohio.

Source: Honda News Releases

Honda Accord EX-L V6

The all-new 2008 Honda Accord moves the world of mainstream transportation in a refined, dynamic and sophisticated direction with an expanded range of innovative technologies designed for more power, greater efficiency and enhanced safety across the entire lineup of sedans and coupes.

Completely redesigned for 2008 with increased dimensions for a more spacious interior, the sedan styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines. The coupe is further individualized with an aggressive stance and unique proportions that create a muscular, sporty demeanour.

"The all-new Honda Accord has become more advanced and refined with a new level of engineering sophistication," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "As the Honda brand’s flagship automobile, the Accord is designed to exceed expectations with premium technology, a more spacious interior and increased power, while retaining the fun-to-drive character and innovative feel that has always distinguished the Accord."

An available 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine produces 268-horsepower – the most ever for any Accord – while introducing a new generation of fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology and achieving a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV1) rating. The VCM system operates in six-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, resulting in an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/292 miles per gallon (Accord Sedan V6).

Also new for Accord, an Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. Additional safety equipment standard to all Accord models includes Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), also known as Electronic Stability Control; side-curtain airbags; dual-chamber front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints, anti-lock brakes and more.

The Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with 2.4-litre 4-cylinder and 3.5-litre V6 engine choices. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (standard on sedan V6 models, available with all 4-cylinder engines and V6-powered Accord Coupes,) and a 6-speed manual transmission (exclusive to the Accord Coupe EX-L V6 6MT).

Sedan trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Sedan LX and plus featured LX-P (177-horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Sedan EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V6 engine), to the premium and upscale Accord Sedan EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V6 engine). Coupe trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Coupe LX-S (190 horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Coupe EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine) to the premium and upscale Accord Coupe EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V6 engine).

Technical Specifications
Engine: 3.5 litre V6
Aspiration: Natural
Maximum Power: 268 hp @ 6200 rpm
Maximum Torque: 248 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

Source: Honda Press Releases

Honda Hot Wheels Racer

Honda is announcing the arrival of the Honda Racer, a much-anticipated 1/64th scale Hot Wheels car designed by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., in Torrance. The Honda model, along with designs from five additional automakers, were selected as part of the Hot Wheels Designer's Challenge as a way to celebrate the die-cast brand's 40th anniversary. The Honda Racer arrives on store shelves in May 2008.

"The Honda Racer combines the excitement of Honda's racing heritage with Hot Wheels' reputation for speed, power, performance and attitude," says Guillermo Gonzalez, senior designer of Honda R&D Americas, Inc., and designer of the Honda Racer. "The core concept is built around our idea for an 'ultimate racecar' and leverages the design freedom made possible by a scale model car."

The key element to the design of the entire car is that the body is in the shape of the Honda "H" emblem. The exterior shape resembles an imaginative side-by-side racecar of 1960s vintage that encloses a driver and a navigator. The general shape, styling and paint scheme is further inspired by Honda's early participation in Formula 1 racing and its 1967 RA 273 racecar. The white and red paint scheme, the open cockpits, large exhaust system and open wheels are all elements inspired by the historic Honda racecar.

A powerful Honda V-10 VTEC engine sits between the piloting team. If brought up to scale, the engine would displace an amazing 2.0 litres per cylinder. A set of velocity stacks and an intake that receives air through the body of the car sits between red DOHC valve covers to provide a technologically-advanced look. The exhaust system is a giant set of twisted, yet balanced tubes that reside high above the engine, complementing the power plant design at the back end of the car. The dynamic expression of technology, history and detail is evident throughout the design of the car.

"Sure, it is awesome to play with the cars on the orange track again, but I discovered that designing a Hot Wheels car is very different and in some ways more liberating than designing a production car," says Gonzalez, a native of East Los Angeles who considers automotive design to be his dream job. "For example, the primary design constraint is that the car had to fit on the orange track and perform a loop. Aside from that, the possibilities are without limit."

Mattel invited auto manufacturers to participate in the Hot Wheels Designer's Challenge as part of the die-cast brand's 40th anniversary celebration. The design of the Honda Racer debuted at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas in October as a 1/5th scale model.

Starting in mid-August, the Honda Racer 1/5th scale model and other cars from the Designer's Challenge will be part of the Hot Wheels 40th anniversary road trip travelling along historic U.S. Route 40, stopping at multiple cities along the way. The tour starts at the Mattel headquarters in El Segundo, California, in August and ends at Watkins Glen, New York, in early September.

Source: Honda Press Releases

Honda FCX Concept

Honda's next-generation FCX Concept fuel cell vehicle made its European driving debut at the Gotland Ring in Sweden. The vehicle is highly efficient, with an energy efficiency of around 60 percent; approximately three times that of a petrol-engine vehicle, twice that of a hybrid vehicle and 10 percent better than the current FCX.

The FCX Concept is a key stage in Honda's development of fuel cell technology and will be the basis for a totally new fuel cell vehicle which the company is currently developing. Limited marketing of this new vehicle is on target to begin in 2008 in Japan and the U.S. and the focus will be to deliver a new dimension in environmentally friendly driving pleasure not found with petrol-engine vehicles.

To meet Honda's objectives for significant gains in both environmental and driving performance, the FCX Concept is equipped with a V Flow fuel cell platform. In previous fuel cell stacks the hydrogen and the water formed in electricity generation flowed horizontally, this vehicle features a vertical-flow design. This allows gravity to assist in discharging the water that is produced, resulting in a major improvement in water drainage - key to high-efficiency fuel stack performance - and achieving a higher output from a smaller package.

This new fuel cell stack is 20 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than the current FCX FC Stack, yet its power output is 14kW greater. The drive motor has been positioned coaxially with the gearbox for a more compact design, with output increased by 15kW. Overall, the power plant is about 180kg lighter than that of the current FCX and about 40 percent smaller in volume. The V Flow fuel cell platform also has allowed the designers to create an elegant, low-riding, sedan form that would have been difficult to achieve in a conventional fuel cell vehicle. The result is improved energy efficiency and performance along with a more spacious interior.

Low-temperature startup has also been significantly improved, enabling cold-weather starts at temperatures 10°C lower than the current FCX as low as minus 30°C.

As an auxiliary power source, the FCX Concept carries a compact, high-efficiency lithium ion battery, contributing to increased power output and a more compact power plant. These efficiency improvements to major power plant components give the vehicle a travel range approximately 30 percent greater than the current FCX.

The comfortably large cabin complete with futuristic styling also includes seat upholstery and door linings made from Honda Bio-Fabric, a plant-based material that offers outstanding durability and resistance to sunlight damage.

Source: Honda Press Releases