AutoblogGreenhttp://www.autobloggreen.comAutoblogGreenhttp://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/feedlogo.gifAutoblogGreenhttp://www.autobloggreen.comen-usCopyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://www.autobloggreen.com/category/podcasts/rss.xmlAutoblogGreenDetroit Preview: Honda releases official pic of production Insighthttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/12/03/detroit-preview-honda-releases-official-pic-of-production-insig/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/12/03/detroit-preview-honda-releases-official-pic-of-production-insig/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/12/03/detroit-preview-honda-releases-official-pic-of-production-insig/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click to enlarge

The new Honda Insight will be making its world debut in production form at the Detroit Auto Show next month without a press conference. The first official photo of the production model came out this morning and it should come as a surprise to no one that it looks almost identical to the concept that appeared at Paris and LA this fall. In fact, aside from the bar under the grille being body colored instead of chrome and the conventional halogens replacing the LED headlights, it's pretty much spot on. Other details such as the door handles and exterior mirrors are also different from the concept for obvious practical reasons. The Insight goes on sale in the spring for a base price expected to be under $19,000.

Gallery: Paris 2008: Honda Insight Concept


[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Detroit Preview: Honda releases official pic of production Insight

Detroit Preview: Honda releases official pic of production Insight originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowhonda insighthonda insight hybridHondaInsightHondaInsightHybridSam AbuelsamidWed, 03 Dec 2008 11:14:00 ESTIn the AutoblogGreen Garage: 2008 Honda Civic i-CDTihttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/12/01/in-the-autobloggreen-garage-2008-honda-civic-i-cdti/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/12/01/in-the-autobloggreen-garage-2008-honda-civic-i-cdti/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/12/01/in-the-autobloggreen-garage-2008-honda-civic-i-cdti/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image for a high-res gallery of the Honda Civic i-CDTi

It's time for another in our ongoing series of reviews of high mileage cars that Americans can't buy at any price. This time around we have Honda Civic i-CDTi from our friends at Honeywell. You may recall from some previous reviews that Honeywell is a major manufacturer of turbochargers and they have a fleet of European diesel vehicles that they are using to promote their technology. You might look at the car pictured above and think to yourself, "That's not like any Civic I've ever seen." Unless you're one of our European readers, you'd probably be right. As hatchbacks comprised an ever smaller share of US Civic sales through the '90s and into the early part of this decade Honda, decided to stop offering that body style in the US.

Meanwhile, over in Europe, the latest three- and five-door hatchback Civics have evolved into something that almost looks more like a space capsule than a car. Under the hood, this Civic has a powerplant that's also unavailable to Americans, a 2.2L turbodiesel four. This is Honda's previous-generation diesel engine, not the newer i-DTEC engine that was shown at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. Follow the jump to find out what it's like to live with a Civic with low end torque.

Gallery: AutoblogGreen Garage: 2008 Honda Civic i-CDTi


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading In the AutoblogGreen Garage: 2008 Honda Civic i-CDTi

In the AutoblogGreen Garage: 2008 Honda Civic i-CDTi originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>honda civichonda civic dieselhonda civic i-cdtiHondaCivicHondaCivicDieselHondaCivicI-cdtiSam AbuelsamidMon, 01 Dec 2008 20:02:00 ESTHonda to debut production Insight at Detroit without press conferencehttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/26/honda-to-debut-production-insight-at-detroit-without-press-confe/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/26/honda-to-debut-production-insight-at-detroit-without-press-confe/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/26/honda-to-debut-production-insight-at-detroit-without-press-confe/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above image for high-res gallery of the Insight concept

The realities of the economy have taken another bite out of the Detroit Auto Show as Honda has decided not hold a press conference. Unlike Nissan and Mitsubishi, Honda won't be pulling out entirely. The production version of the new Insight will be appearing on the show floor with the rest of the lineup and Honda executives will be on hand to talk to the media. Honda is just forgoing the expense of have a stage, chairs and lighting and sound set up. Like Nissan, Honda will also take a pass on a press conference the following month at the Chicago show.

Gallery: LA 2008: Honda Insight Concept


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Honda to debut production Insight at Detroit without press conference originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 10:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>detroit 2009Detroit2009honda insightHondaInsightSam AbuelsamidWed, 26 Nov 2008 10:24:00 ESTHonda starts FCX leases in Japan, kids targeted http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-starts-fcx-leases-in-japan-kids-targeted/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-starts-fcx-leases-in-japan-kids-targeted/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-starts-fcx-leases-in-japan-kids-targeted/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Deliveries of the US-spec FCX Clarity took place back in July and since then plenty of celebrities and excited hydrogen fuel cell advocates have been leasing the vehicles in Southern California. Honda has long planned to also offer the FCX Clarity in Japan, but it wasn't until today that anyone there has been able to take one home. Well, sort of. The first delivery in Japan was to the Ministry of the Environment, which previously had the original FCX fuel cell vehicle. In Japan, Honda will only offer the FCX Clarity to "governmental agencies and certain corporate entities" for the foreseeable future.

This limitation does not mean that Honda thinks that only the Japanese government should get an H2 vehicle. In fact, Honda is promoting the FCX Clarity with an introduction event aimed at children. I'm sure all hydrogen fuel cells skeptics will have a field day with this bit from Honda PR:

The event ... provid[ed] children an opportunity to learn more about environmental issues, dream their own dreams of advanced technology, and experience the wonder of the FCX Clarity by seeing and touching the actual vehicle. This experience also encouraged children to take a step ahead of adults and envision a more environmentally responsible future, one in which the first automobile they drive will be a fuel cell vehicle.

Indeed.

Gallery: 2009 Honda FCX Clarity First drive


[Source: Honda]

Honda starts FCX leases in Japan, kids targeted originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>clarityfcxfcx clarityFcxClarityhonda fcxhonda fcx clarityhonda hydrogenHondaFcxHondaFcxClarityHondaHydrogenhydrogenhydrogen fuel cellHydrogenFuelCelljapanSebastian BlancoTue, 25 Nov 2008 18:30:00 ESTMore details on Honda's color-changing Ecological Drive Assist Systemhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/more-details-on-hondas-color-changing-ecological-drive-assist-s/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/more-details-on-hondas-color-changing-ecological-drive-assist-s/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/more-details-on-hondas-color-changing-ecological-drive-assist-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



We got our first look at Honda's Ecological Drive Assist System in LA last week. Now, Honda has released images of the Japanese Insight's EDAS which shows us the color-changing speedometer background that is used in the system's guidance function. If the color behind the number is green, you're driving efficiently. Get a little sloppy, and a bit of blue appears. When you're driving in the least economical fashion, the whole screen turns blue. While this should be easy to understand on the road, if sure messes up that "blue is the new green" thing the Europeans are doing.

The Japan version of the Insight will also be able to integrate with the optional Honda HDD InterNavi System. When combined with this system, the EDAS can give more advice on how to enhance fuel economy while driving, specifically by looking through a driver's history and suggesting driver-specific changes. Look for the new Insight with EDAS in the spring of 2009.

Gallery: Honda Ecological Drive Assist System


[Source: Honda]

Continue reading More details on Honda's color-changing Ecological Drive Assist System

More details on Honda's color-changing Ecological Drive Assist System originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>eco-friendlyEcological Drive Assist SystemEcologicalDriveAssistSystemeconomyhondaSebastian BlancoTue, 25 Nov 2008 15:19:00 ESTHonda president pooh-poohs BYD, electric cars in generalhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-president-pooh-poohs-byd-electric-cars-in-general/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-president-pooh-poohs-byd-electric-cars-in-general/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-president-pooh-poohs-byd-electric-cars-in-general/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Honda president Takeo Fukui has been known to downplay the future role of plug-in cars in the automotive marketplace even as his company plays up the fuel cell technology that he claims will be available for the masses by 2018 (even if it will be somewhat expensive). In a recent interview to Chinese website auto.163.com, he said that EV tech is still "immature" with the main problem being the batteries. He thinks that current electric cars can only achieve a 100 km (62 mile) range and that makes mass production and commercialization difficult. Not dissuaded by the CEO's position on EVs, the interviewer went on to ask what he thought of BYD's electric vehicle R&D efforts, Fukui replied that they weren't very good. Ouch.

While it's possible that Fukui-sama hasn't been informed about the 244-mile range achieved by the Tesla Roadster or, indeed, of the 120-mile range achieved by an efficiently-shaped Aptera, we suspect that his mind is made up and Honda will stick with its hydrogen hopes and upcoming hybrid. At least while he remains at the helm.

Gallery: Beijing 2008: BYD e6


[Source: Gasgoo]

Honda president pooh-poohs BYD, electric cars in general originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>BYDelectric carsElectricCarsTakeo FukuiTakeoFukuiDomenick YoneyTue, 25 Nov 2008 14:29:00 ESTHonda may add production of the Fit in US factoryhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-may-add-production-of-the-fit-in-us-factory/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-may-add-production-of-the-fit-in-us-factory/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-may-add-production-of-the-fit-in-us-factory/#commentsFiled under: ,



Ever since its debut in the US market two years ago, the Honda Fit has proved enormously popular and sales have been limited by supply from the Japanese factory that produces the Fit. With the continuing decline in sales of the Pilot and Odyssey, Honda now has some extra capacity in North America. As a result, it makes perfect sense to consider adding more popular models to those facilities. During the LA Auto Show last week, Honda VP Corporate Planning Dan Bonawitz acknowledged that the company has only 19 days supply of Fits at US dealers and is indeed considering shifting some production here. Honda has already consolidated production of the SUV and van at a single plant in Alabama which is running below capacity. If Honda does add Fit production in the US it likely wouldn't start for at least a year.

Related:

Gallery: AutoblogGreen Garage: 2009 Honda Fit Sport


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: MarketWatch]

Honda may add production of the Fit in US factory originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>breakinghonda fitHondaFitus honda fit productionUsHondaFitProductionSam AbuelsamidTue, 25 Nov 2008 13:41:00 ESTHonda EV Plus, the full storyhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-ev-plus-the-full-story-pinbox-for-top-ten-post/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-ev-plus-the-full-story-pinbox-for-top-ten-post/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/25/honda-ev-plus-the-full-story-pinbox-for-top-ten-post/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to enlarge the Honda EV Plus electric car

As the story goes, Honda realized in the late '80s that petroleum wouldn't last forever. Buoyed by the successes that General Motors was having with its solar racers, Honda embarked on a program to bring a practical electric vehicle to market that could be powered by stand-alone solar systems.

As you might imagine, getting a vehicle from such a basic idea into sheetmetal, batteries and the production line is extremely difficult. Fortunately, Honda documented the entire process, so it's all been saved for posterity's sake. We've gotten our mitts on the whole sordid tale and have pasted it past the break for your reading pleasure. See below:

It all began with a debate concerning the feasibility of solar power.

Continue reading Honda EV Plus, the full story

Honda EV Plus, the full story originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>electric carelectric carselectric hondaElectricCarElectricCarsElectricHondahonda ev plushonda evplusHondaEvPlusJeremy KorzeniewskiTue, 25 Nov 2008 13:36:00 ESTLA 2008: Honda shows off Insight's Eco Assist dashboardhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-honda-shows-off-insights-eco-assist-dashboard/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-honda-shows-off-insights-eco-assist-dashboard/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-honda-shows-off-insights-eco-assist-dashboard/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for more shots of the Honda Insight Eco Assist dashboard

Honda joins Ford in the green dash race with its latest piece of clever technology, the Eco Assist dashboard, which the automaker has revealed here in LA and will come with the 2009 Insight hybrid. There's an ECON button on the dash that increases fuel efficiency by changing settings on the CVT transmission and air conditioning unit and by increasing regenerative braking capabilities and a more aggressive anti-idling algorithm.

The Insight's new dash will also change colors between shades of green and blue to tell the driver how they're driving. There is also an an "economy scoring function" that keeps track of the way the car is driven and gives eco-scores to the pilot. Ford has taken a similar approach with its new Fusion hybrid, which will be equipped with an LCD gauge cluster called SmartGauge[TM] with EcoGuide.

Gallery: LA 2008: Honda Insight Eco Assist


[Source: Honda]

Continue reading LA 2008: Honda shows off Insight's Eco Assist dashboard

LA 2008: Honda shows off Insight's Eco Assist dashboard originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>eco assisteco assist dashboardEcoAssistEcoAssistDashboardhondahonda eco assisthonda insighthonda insight dashhonda insight eco assisthonda insight hybridHondaEcoAssistHondaInsightHondaInsightDashHondaInsightEcoAssistHondaInsightHybridJeremy KorzeniewskiFri, 21 Nov 2008 07:58:00 ESTLA 2008: Honda pulls a surprise with FC Sport concepthttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-honda-pulls-a-surprise-with-fc-sport-concept/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-honda-pulls-a-surprise-with-fc-sport-concept/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-honda-pulls-a-surprise-with-fc-sport-concept/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the FC Sport concept for a high res gallery

In an age when there are fewer and fewer surprises at auto shows as embargoes get broken and information leaks out early, Honda pulled off a big surprise at the LA Auto Show this morning. After showing the year old CR-Z concept and the Insight hybrid concept that debuted at the Paris show, product planning manager Dan Bonawitz unveiled a brand new concept. The FC Sport was created to show off the packaging flexibility that is possible with hydrogen fuel cells. Using the V-Flow fuel cell stack and electric drivetrain from the FCX Clarity, the FC Sport is a three-seat sports car. The stack and drive system are moved to the back of the car for a mid-ship arrangement. The seating arrangement is similar to that of the McLaren F1 supercar of the '90s with the driver front and center and the two passengers set back on either side. For now the car is strictly a non-functional styling concept but such concepts from Honda don't usually stay that way for long.

Gallery: Honda FC Sport Design Study


[Source: Honda]
Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid and Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2008: Honda pulls a surprise with FC Sport concept

LA 2008: Honda pulls a surprise with FC Sport concept originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>breakingfc-sportfcsportfuel cellFuelCellhondala auto showla auto show 2008LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2008Sam AbuelsamidWed, 19 Nov 2008 15:23:00 ESTHuh, so that's what a million dollar moped looks like...http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/19/huh-so-thats-what-a-million-dollar-moped-looks-like/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/19/huh-so-thats-what-a-million-dollar-moped-looks-like/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/19/huh-so-thats-what-a-million-dollar-moped-looks-like/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to enlarge the Chicara Art IV Moped

Mopeds are intended to provide cheap transportation to people who wouldn't be able to get themselves around otherwise, right? Well, usually that's the case... but there are apparently exceptions to the rule. A quick scan of your local classifieds section or even eBay will generally turn up a few older 'peds from the '70s or '80s for real cheap. The 50cc engines are easy to work on and will run for a good long time with basic maintenance. But, what if the normal run-of-the-mill moped just isn't quite enough? Enter Chicara Nagata, who's amazing two-wheeled creations sell for a cool million dollars each, including his custom Chicara Art IV, which is based on the engine from a 1966 Honda moped. The 1.5-horsepower mill isn't likely to set any speed records, but you're sure to save some gas along the way, though that likely isn't of any real concern if you can afford the asking price.

[Source: Wired]

Huh, so that's what a million dollar moped looks like... originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>chicarachicara art ivchicara mopedchicara mototryclesChicaraArtIvChicaraMopedChicaraMototryclesmopedmopedsJeremy KorzeniewskiWed, 19 Nov 2008 11:27:00 ESTIn the AutoblogGreen Garage: 2009 Honda Fit Sport 5AThttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/10/in-the-autobloggreen-garage-2009-honda-fit-sport-5at/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/10/in-the-autobloggreen-garage-2009-honda-fit-sport-5at/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/10/in-the-autobloggreen-garage-2009-honda-fit-sport-5at/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Honda Fit Sport automatic w/Nav

One of the big success stories in Honda's lineup recently has been its smallest car (in the U.S. market at least) the Fit. Since its U.S. debut two years ago, Honda has been moving Fits out the door as fast they can build them. That pace really accelerated in 2008 as gas prices topped $4 per gallon during the spring and summer and most of the popular hybrid models were sold out. With October being the most dismal sales month in memory for virtually every automaker, even Honda saw its sales tank. The lone exception was the Fit.

As summer ended and the kids went back to school, the all-new second generation Fit began to arrive in U.S. showrooms just in time for the implosion on Wall Street. Nonetheless, so far the new Fit has done well in the market despite the increasing difficulty for customers to get car loans. In an absolutely miserable October, the Fit was the only Honda brand vehicle to show a year-over-year sales gain with a 28 percent jump compared to 2007. When we first drove the new Fit back in August, we came away very impressed with its fun to drive qualities. Now it's time to find out what it's like to live with on a day-to-day basis. The answer lies after the jump.

Gallery: AutoblogGreen Garage: 2009 Honda Fit Sport


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading In the AutoblogGreen Garage: 2009 Honda Fit Sport 5AT

In the AutoblogGreen Garage: 2009 Honda Fit Sport 5AT originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>autoblog greenAutoblogGreenautobloggreen garageautobloggreen-garageAutobloggreenGaragehondahonda fithonda fit sportHondaFitHondaFitSportSam AbuelsamidMon, 10 Nov 2008 20:01:00 ESTHonda experimenting with walking assist devicehttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/08/honda-experimenting-with-walking-assist-device/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/08/honda-experimenting-with-walking-assist-device/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/08/honda-experimenting-with-walking-assist-device/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for more shots of the Honda Walking Assist Device

Honda has a new dual-motored machine that's powered by state-of-the-art lithium ion batteries, but it may not be what you were expecting. Essentially, the Japanese automaker has taken the technology from the lower half of its Asimo robot and has applied it to a much larger scale. The result is currently known as an experimental walking assist device, but we'd imagine they'd come up with something a bit catchier if the robotic appendages actually went into production. Strapping on the limbs looks pretty straightforward, just step into the shoes and adjust the seat for your height. Done!

Honda says that the device was created for people who can already walk but may need some sort of assistance. We imagine disabled and elderly individuals first, but Honda shows the legs being used by factory workers and is now testing the new technology at one of its plants in Japan. How long until the entire Iron Man suit is ready?

Gallery: Honda walking assist device


[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Honda experimenting with walking assist device

Honda experimenting with walking assist device originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 08 Nov 2008 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>asimohonda asimohonda robotic legshonda walkerhonda walking assisthonda walking assist deviceHondaAsimoHondaRoboticLegsHondaWalkerHondaWalkingAssistHondaWalkingAssistDevicerobotic legsRoboticLegsJeremy KorzeniewskiSat, 08 Nov 2008 15:39:00 ESTSEMA 2008: Honda shows Civic HFP Concept, announces Mugen accessories for Fithttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/05/sema-2008-honda-shows-civic-hfp-concept-announces-mugen-access/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/05/sema-2008-honda-shows-civic-hfp-concept-announces-mugen-access/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/05/sema-2008-honda-shows-civic-hfp-concept-announces-mugen-access/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for more high-res shots of the Honda Civic HFP Concept from SEMA

Honda is accessorizing its two smallest, most efficient models. Debuting at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas is the Civic HFP Concept, which starts life as a stock Civic Si sedan. To this extremely-capable platform, Honda adds a series of aero-tweaks designed to improve the car's efficiency, such as a body kit with a new front fascia and ground effects. Especially interesting are the new lightweight alloy wheels with hybrid-like aero covers. The suspension has also been lowered a bit to bring the whole package a bit lower to the ground. These changes have been derived from a Japanese racing event called the Super Taikyu Series, which uses a version of the Civic Type R. Honda claims that these modifications can both improve the performance of the Civic Si and its fuel efficiency.

Slotting under the Civic in Honda's U.S. lineup is the new Fit hatchback and Honda has announced a new line of performance and appearance parts for that model as well under its longtime tuning arm known as Mugen. Check out pictures of both Hondas below and click past the break for the official announcement.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Civic HFP Concept


Gallery: SEMA 2008: Honda Mugen Fit


[Sources: Honda, Autoblog: Civic - Fit]

Continue reading SEMA 2008: Honda shows Civic HFP Concept, announces Mugen accessories for Fit

SEMA 2008: Honda shows Civic HFP Concept, announces Mugen accessories for Fit originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>honda civichonda civic hfphonda civic hfp concepthonda civic sihonda fithonda fit mugenhonda fit sporthonda mugen fitHondaCivicHondaCivicHfpHondaCivicHfpConceptHondaCivicSiHondaFitHondaFitMugenHondaFitSportHondaMugenFitmugen fitMugenFitsema 2008Sema2008Jeremy KorzeniewskiWed, 05 Nov 2008 14:12:00 ESTGermany's top 20 lowest CO<sub>2</sub>-emitting modelshttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/04/germanys-top-20-lowest-co-sub-2-sub-emitting-models/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/04/germanys-top-20-lowest-co-sub-2-sub-emitting-models/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/11/04/germanys-top-20-lowest-co-sub-2-sub-emitting-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,



As most of our readers probably know by now, the "green" credentials for a car in Europe are often based on how much CO2 the car produces. In fact, most of the new taxes applied to cars depend on this indicator, which is also connected to the car's fuel efficiency. Therefore, it is key for European consumers to know a car's CO2 figure. That makes this list from AutoNews of Germany's top 20 low-carbon cars. Included are many small displacement diesels, the two most famous hybrids on the roads, a micro-hybrid and even a few 1-liter gasoline cars. Pictured above, one of the top 20. Follow us after the jump for the complete list.

[Source: AutoNews]

Continue reading Germany's top 20 lowest CO2-emitting models

Germany's top 20 lowest CO2-emitting models originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>co2co2 listCo2Listtop 20top 20 less co2top listTop20Top20LessCo2TopListXavier NavarroTue, 04 Nov 2008 13:25:00 ESTFirst Drive: Daimler F-Cell, Hyundai FCEV, Toyota FCHV and GM HydroGen4http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/30/first-drive-daimler-f-cell-hyundai-fcev-toyota-fchv-and-gm-hy/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/30/first-drive-daimler-f-cell-hyundai-fcev-toyota-fchv-and-gm-hy/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/30/first-drive-daimler-f-cell-hyundai-fcev-toyota-fchv-and-gm-hy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Click above for more shots of the GM HydroGen4 fuel cell Equinox

The hydrogen economy seems to be very far away into the future, if it ever comes to fruition at all. If hydrogen is going to make a significant impact as a major source of energy, an infrastructure for getting the hydrogen to consumers will be a necessity, as will the solutions to complex problems such as where to extract the hydrogen from and how to store it in large quantities. Perhaps you can tell that we believe all of this will take time, but there is still a large contingent of hydrogen proponents that believe the hydrogen economy will indeed come to pass, and some cite examples of current hydrogen-powered cars as proof. How do these cars drive? We recently got the chance at the Fuel Cell Seminar & Exposition in Phoenix, Arizona to get some seat time in a few of the hydrogen cars that are currently being tested by major automakers, including the Daimler F-Cell, Hyundai FCEV, the latest Toyota FCHV and the GM HydroGen4 fuel cell Equinox. Read on after the break for our first impressions.

Gallery: First Drive: GM HydroGen4



All Photos Copyright (C)2008 Jeremy Korzeniewski / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: Daimler F-Cell, Hyundai FCEV, Toyota FCHV and GM HydroGen4

First Drive: Daimler F-Cell, Hyundai FCEV, Toyota FCHV and GM HydroGen4 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>daimler f-cellDaimlerF-cellfeaturedfirst drivefirst drive daimler f-cellfirst drive fuel cell equinoxfirst drive hydrogen fuel cellfirst drive hyundai fcevfirst drive toyota fchvFirstDriveFirstDriveDaimlerF-cellFirstDriveFuelCellEquinoxFirstDriveHydrogenFuelCellFirstDriveHyundaiFcevFirstDriveToyotaFchvfuel cellfuel cell carfuel cell carsfuel cell equinoxFuelCellFuelCellCarFuelCellCarsFuelCellEquinoxhydrogenhydrogen carhydrogen carshydrogen fuel cellHydrogenCarHydrogenCarsHydrogenFuelCellhyundai fcevHyundaiFcevtoyota fchvToyotaFchvJeremy KorzeniewskiThu, 30 Oct 2008 20:16:00 ESTHonda Soltec PV panels now available for public/industrial applicationshttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/23/honda-soltec-pv-panels-now-available-for-public-industrial-appli/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/23/honda-soltec-pv-panels-now-available-for-public-industrial-appli/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/23/honda-soltec-pv-panels-now-available-for-public-industrial-appli/#commentsFiled under: ,

Honda's Soltec subsidiary has been selling smaller scale photo-voltaic panels for residential use for the past year. Honda Soltec has just expanded its capacity to build larger panels more suitable for large scale installations like factories and public buildings. As of this week, the large scale solar systems are available for sale from Honda. The company has been testing these systems for some time with a variety of installations ranging from the solar-powered hydrogen generating station at the Honda R&D campus in Torrance, CA to a car-carrying ship operated by ACT Maritime Co. Honda's press release is after the jump.

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Honda Soltec PV panels now available for public/industrial applications

Honda Soltec PV panels now available for public/industrial applications originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>hondahonda-solarhonda-soltecsoltecSam AbuelsamidThu, 23 Oct 2008 14:53:00 ESTAcura may buck the trend and add a V8 engine to next RLhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/20/acura-may-buck-the-trend-and-add-a-v8-engine-to-next-rl/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/20/acura-may-buck-the-trend-and-add-a-v8-engine-to-next-rl/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/20/acura-may-buck-the-trend-and-add-a-v8-engine-to-next-rl/#commentsFiled under:

While other manufacturers, notably Ford and General Motors, have been canceling programs to develop new V8 engines, Honda may be yet again be hearing the beat of a different drummer. Automotive News is reporting that Honda's Takeo Fukui has confirmed that the next-generation Acura RL will be powered by the company's first production V8 engine. Even in with high fuel prices, Acura and its dealers apparently feel that that a V8 is necessary to compete with other German and Japanese luxury brands. Acura sales are down over 15 percent in 2008 and the current RL with a 3.7L V6 has never been a strong seller despite having competitive performance. It is believed that the image a V8 projects is necessary to compete in this segment. In all likelihood, if Honda has produce a V8, they will do something different with it that will set it apart and provide better fuel efficiency. Perhaps Honda will do a small displacement V8 (3.0-3.5L) with its IMA hybrid system.

Nonetheless, General Motors canceled plans earlier this year to produce a new Ultra V8 for Cadillac to replace the current aging NorthStar. Cadillac general manager Jim Taylor explained the reason as falling demand for V8s with increased sales of six cylinder engines. It will be interesting to see if Honda has made a mistake here.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. req'd]

Acura may buck the trend and add a V8 engine to next RL originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>hondahonda v8HondaV8takeo fukuitakeo fukui hondaTakeoFukuiTakeoFukuiHondaSam AbuelsamidMon, 20 Oct 2008 14:40:00 ESTHonda not selling CNG unit to Clean Energy Fuelshttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/18/honda-not-selling-cng-unit-to-clean-energy-fuels/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/18/honda-not-selling-cng-unit-to-clean-energy-fuels/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/18/honda-not-selling-cng-unit-to-clean-energy-fuels/#commentsFiled under: ,



Last month, it was revealed that Honda had agreed to sell its FuelMaker Corp. to Clean Energy Fuels for $17 million. It seems that the two companies, who had until October 3 to close the deal, have called off the sale. We're not sure what the reason for the sale's cancellation are, but it sounds as if Honda was the company that initiated the termination.

In a statement, Clean Energy Fuels said, "Honda delivered to us a notice that it intended to terminate the purchase agreement; and, after subsequent discussions, on October 15, 2008, we and Honda mutually agreed to terminate the purchase agreement in accordance with its terms."

The biggest question now is what this means for the Phill CNG refueling station. The hope would be that Honda finds a way to begin selling these units to homeowners who want to use natural gas instead of gasoline to power their cars. Conspiracy theorists are sure to have a field day with this one.

[Source: The New York Times]

Honda not selling CNG unit to Clean Energy Fuels originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 18 Oct 2008 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>civic gxCivicGxcngcng fueling stationcng-fuelling-stationCngFuelingStationcompressed natural gasCompressedNaturalGasphillJeremy KorzeniewskiSat, 18 Oct 2008 18:12:00 ESTHonda cutting Pilot production, shifting Accord, Ridgeline, adding fourshttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/15/honda-cutting-pilot-production-shifting-accord-ridgeline-addi/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/15/honda-cutting-pilot-production-shifting-accord-ridgeline-addi/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/10/15/honda-cutting-pilot-production-shifting-accord-ridgeline-addi/#commentsFiled under: ,



Just months after debuting its new second generation Pilot SUV, Honda is cutting production in line with shifting market demand. Honda is fortunate to have a very flexible manufacturing system along with a wide array of vehicles that use a very similar architecture. With that in mind, Honda is able to shift most production of V6 powered Accords from Marysville OH to Lincoln AL alongside the Odyssey and Pilot. The Alabama plant includes an engine plant that produces V6 engines. With the shifts, the Lincoln engine plant will also produce the V6s for the Accords built there. Next spring the Ridgeline pickup will also go to Lincoln.

While V6 Accord production goes south, the Ohio factory will increase production of four cylinder Accords and imports of those versions from Japan will be reduced accordingly. The nearby Anna OH, engine plant will shift its build mix from away from V6 to more four cylinder production. Overall production volumes at the North American plants will remain stable with new product mix thanks to those reduced imports.

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Honda cutting Pilot production, shifting Accord, Ridgeline, adding fours

Honda cutting Pilot production, shifting Accord, Ridgeline, adding fours originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]>honda productionHondaProductionreduced suv volumesReducedSuvVolumesSam AbuelsamidWed, 15 Oct 2008 14:20:00 EST