Geneva Preview: Honda to debut a compact Hybrid Sports Concept

“Small is big in Europe” so Honda rightfully decided to preview a compact Hybrid Coupe at the upcoming Geneva Show. Information on the “Small Hybrid Sports Concept” is scarce–apart from the fact that it was conceived by Honda R&D Europe based in Offenbach, Germany so for now we’ll have to do with that plus a vague rendering. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the full press release on Honda’s Geneva Display

PRESS RELEASE: Honda at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show

February 5, 2007– Honda will be presenting the world debut of an exciting new concept car at the forthcoming 2007 Geneva motor show, as well as showing the fully driveable FCX Concept fuel cell car in Europe for the first time. A press conference will be held on the Honda stand in Hall 4 on Press Day, 6 March, between 12:00 noon and 12:15 pm.

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept
Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept represents Honda’s proposal for a future hybrid model. The Concept demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced hybrid technology and fun-to-drive sports car characteristics. The Small Hybrid Sports Concept, which has been designed by Honda R&D Europe based in Offenbach, Germany explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

Fully driveable Honda FCX Concept demonstrates Honda’s advanced fuel cell technology
The fully functional Honda FCX Concept will be on display for the first time in Europe. The concept model features a newly developed compact, high-efficient Honda FC Stack as well as a long-floor, low-riding, short-nose body. It offers a comfortably large cabin and futuristic styling along with significant improvements in power output and environmental performance. The FCX Concept offers practical driving performance with a range of 570 km (Honda calculations when driven in LA4 mode) and a top speed limited to 160 km/h. Limited marketing of a totally new fuel cell vehicle based on the FCX Concept model is to begin in Japan and the US in 2008.

Next-generation clean diesel engine
Further technical innovation will be represented in Geneva by the company’s next-generation diesel engine that uses world-first technology to reduce emissions to the same level of a petrol engine. A revolutionary catalytic converter reduces NOx (oxides of nitrogen) emissions to a level that enables the engine to meet the stringent US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier II/Bin 5 requirements.

The catalytic converter features an innovative system that uses the reductive reaction of ammonia to ‘detoxify’ oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by converting them into harmless nitrogen (N2). However, unlike Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems which use urea injection, Honda’s innovative technology uses ammonia generated within the catalytic converter. Honda plans to introduce its next-generation diesel engine within three years.

Honda’s Motorsports challengers for 2007
On public display for the first time will be the Honda Racing F1 Team’s brand new race car, the RA107. Honda’s commitment to motorsport will also be represented at the show by the Civic Type R race car based on the just-launched road car. Developed in close cooperation with Italy’s JAS Motorsport, the Civic Type R is aiming for even greater success than its forebear, which has proved popular in European motor sport circles since its introduction in 2002. The car is being developed to Group N and Group A, as well as the new Group R specifications to be introduced in 2008.

Honda’s production models and accessories
The stand will also feature examples of the brand-new CR-V and Civic Type R models, as well as the rest of the Honda range. The company’s extensive range of accessories will be showcased on the upper level of the stand, including a CR-V Aero Performance Pack.

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Tokyo Auto Salon: Mugen Honda Jazz/Fit, Civic & S2000 Concepts

Even though the show lasts for a couple of days only, those Tokyo boyz are rolling off concepts faster than a DSG transmission changes gears! On its part Honda specialist Mugen revealed spiced up versions of the Jazz/Fit, Civic Sedan and the S2000 Roadster.

As with the majority of the Tokyo presentations, information concerning the cars is more limited than our knowledge of black holes so once again we’ll have to be consent with any images we’ve got on our hands -for now that is. Undoubtedly Mugen’s most impressive show car is the “Open-Top Sports Concept” or to make its simple a barchetta version of the S2000 with an eye-catching bodykit that we’d just love to take it for a drift –wouldn’t you?

Albeit less impressive, the other two Mugen concepts are the “Road to Racing Concept” which is based on the Civic Sedan featuring a bodykit reminiscent of the 4door Type-R (although that looked much cooler thanks to its polar white colour) & the “Fit Spec-D” which well, is a supped-up Fit (Jazz).

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Tokyo Auto Salon: Honda Concepts Video

We’ve already showed off Honda’s concepts at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Salon in a previous post that includes images and the official press release (yes its in English!) so we’ll spare you from any unnecessary blah-blah and let the video do the talking. But if any of you still feel an irresistible urge to see and read about it all you have to do is just click on the following link: Honda Concepts

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Honda to debut concept versions of Jazz / Fit & Stream at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2007

Talk about workaholics; about a month after Honda presented two concepts at the LA Show (Honda Remix & Acura ASC) and another two at the Detroit Show (Honda Accord Coupe & Acura ASCC) the Japanese carmaker announced that it’ll present another three concepts at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2007 (January 12-14, 2007)! Still wondering why they’re so successful…

Press Release - Fit / Jazz Daily Active Concept: A small car designed to respond to the needs of today’s portable telephone and video game-oriented youth and add a touch of excitement to everyone’s lives. Cameras and sensors are fitted on the exterior of the vehicle to help reduce blind spots. LED daytime running lights on the bumpers and lower skirts provide increased visibility from other users on the road. On the inside, welcome lighting and a 3-mode illumination system that allows occupants to select interior lighting color from three choices add to the relaxed atmosphere. The vehicle can also be equipped with a portable, ‘go-anywhere’ AVN entertainment system combining navigation, game, inter-communication and audio-visual functions for use inside and outside the vehicle. This AVN can fit on the instrument panel or on the front seat headrests. An aroma diffuser is also available to add personalized scent to the interior.

Stream Hyper Sport Concept: This medium-sized minivan combines an exciting driving experience with an interior full of entertainment features. Formed around a ”Sculpted by the Wind” theme, the exterior has been designed for optimum aerodynamic performance. The vehicle is also equipped with a mobile communication-compatible AVN driving information system and an individual entertainment system allowing each passenger to enjoy personalized audio and visual entertainment, for even more enjoyable travel (pics bellow)

Stream Exclusive Concept: This medium-sized minivan offers a glimpse of what ‘premium’ could mean in the near future. The exterior has been designed to portray the image of an uptown cruiser. An overall design made of contrasting shapes, the clever use of molds and the play of light on body lines combine to give a modern feeling of refinement and quality. The interior has been designed into an airy lounge space with the rear two rows of seats replaced by a single one for increased space and comfort. LED-illuminated full leather lounge seats, 17-inch-wide screens and a high quality sound system together provide an exceptionally comfortable and stimulating audio and visual experience. (pics bellow)

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Detroit Auto Show: Honda Accord Concept

Definitely, Honda’s major attraction at the Detroit show as the Accord Concept not only practically previews the 2008 Accord Coupe but it also gives us a hint of how its popular sedan version (in the US and not in Europe) will look like. It might lack the distinctive personality and flair of an Italian coupe or the sheer elegance of a German coupe, but undoubtedly, it’s a big-leap forward (style-wise) in comparison to the current model. I just hope that they’ll do something about that “hideous”, truck-style mask…-Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the official press release and a high-res gallery

PRESS RELEASE: The Honda Accord Coupe Concept reveals a totally new look for the next-generation Accord, along with key technologies for safety, fuel efficiency and performance, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

The styling of the Accord Coupe Concept conveys a powerful stance through its long hood, deeply sculpted lower body and fastback roofline. A six-sided grille and projector headlamps that recess deep into the front fenders contribute to an unmistakable and aggressive front fascia. Quad exhaust outlets integrated into the rear diffuser further convey performance and style beyond any Accord to date. "The Accord Coupe Concept demonstrates the styling direction for the upcoming, eighth-generation Accord," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "As the industry's target for midsize segment excellence, the all-new Accord will set a new benchmark for safety, efficiency, performance, refinement and style."

A more powerful and lower-emissions V6 engine will provide higher fuel efficiency with the incorporation of Honda's next-generation Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology. Honda leads the industry with the highest Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) rating for any full line manufacturer* of 29.2 miles per gallon - well above the industry average of 25.3 miles per gallon.

As part of Honda's "Safety for Everyone" initiative, all next-generation Accord models will include the company's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure. Honda's ACE Body Structure incorporates a front-end frame structure that helps absorb and disperse crash energy over a large area in a frontal impact. ACE also makes the vehicle more crash compatible in frontal impacts with vehicles of differing ride heights.

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Detroit Auto Show: Acura "Advanced Sports Car Concept"

I know what you first question is so let’s get straight to the point: Yes, the Acura “Advanced Sports Car Concept” does preview the next generation Acura / Honda NSX that according to our information will debut this autumn at the Tokyo Motor Show. While design-wise the production version will definitely be toned down in comparison with the concept we’re seeing here, NSX's succesor will maintain the ASCC’s powertrain layout.

Thus meaning, out goes the mid-engine (V6), rear-wheel drive layout of the previous NSX, in comes a front-mounted V10 engine and a rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). So I guess no “cheap” Ferrari thrills here? Well, think of it this way: forget the F430 and think 599 GTB Fiorano. The latter not only has a front-mounted engine layout but Ferrari is also developing a 4WD system for it in the near future.-Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the official press release and a high-res gallery

Press Release: Created to take exotic sports car styling to a new level, the concept is designed to incorporate a powerful front-mounted, V-10 engine and a new high-performance, rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The concept's exterior demonstrates a dynamic fusion of advanced technology and emotion. The long, pronounced hood features deeply sculpted lines and embossed air vents, both of which hint at the powerful engine beneath. The exterior lines run the length of the body, creating a ribbon-like effect from the front headlights to the rear wheel arches, evoking a feeling of movement and power.

Although modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept's slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit. Wide and low to the ground with a 108.8 inch wheelbase, the concept is anchored by grippy 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept's aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

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Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept – Next gen Honda NSX previewed in Detroit!

Wow, that was fast! Heck, the first generation NSX first went into production only about… 17 years ago. And it’s not over yet till we see the actual production version of Honda’s stunning NSX successor. See, the car in the picture is, according to Honda own word’s, “a concept that provides a glimpse at the next generation Acura exotic sports car”. Unfortunately that’s the only thing we know about the unexotically named, Acura “Advanced Sports Car Concept”. We’ll have more on the NSX concept closer to the opening date of the Detroit Show in January.

If you’re a bit confused about the name, we remind you that while the rest of the world knows the NSX as a Honda, in the US, it came under the name of Acura.

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Honda to debut Accord Coupe Concept in Detroit

While Honda has yet to give out any specific details about this undoubtedly sexy concept –apart from the fact that it’ll make its public debut in January at the North American Auto Show, according to sources, it previews the styling direction that Honda will follow for the next Accord coupe that will go on sale in 2008 as a 2009 model. Let’s hope that the actual concept will look as good as this teaser sketch.

Related Articles: Honda CRX Concept?

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LA Show: Acura Advanced Sedan Concept

Ts, ts naughty, naughty! We’ve got to hand it to Acura for their creativity and originality in the design of the Advanced Sedan Concept which looks nothing like the Cadillac Sixteen Concept!

But then again, that’s just our opinion cause according to John Mendel, senior vice president, auto operations Acura, “the Advanced Sedan Concept illustrates Acura's commitment to modern design and cutting-edge style. With our advanced design team taking a significant role in shaping future vehicle design, we can expect upcoming products to reflect this progressive, forward-thinking styling." We’ll just leave you to decide.

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