Honda to Introduce World's First Predictive Safety Cruise Control System

Honda is to introduce the world’s first predictive cruise control system known as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (i-ACC), capable of foreseeing and automatically reacting to other vehicles ‘cutting-in’ to the equipped vehicle’s lane.　

Based on extensive real-world research of typical European driving styles, Honda’s Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (i-ACC) uses a camera and radar to sense the position of other vehicles on the road. It then applies an algorithm to predict the likelihood of vehicles in neighbouring lanes cutting-in by evaluating relations between multiple vehicles, enabling the equipped vehicle to react quickly, safely and comfortably.

i-ACC will make its debut this year on the new European CR-V*, building upon the traditional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system. Traditional ACC systems keep a preselected longitudinal velocity, which is only reduced for maintaining a safe distance to a car in front. However, if a vehicle cuts-in from a neighboring lane, the traditional ACC system reacts later thus requiring stronger braking.

The new i-ACC system is able to compute the likelihood of a cut-in up to five seconds before it occurs, and is therefore designed to react very smoothly so as not to startle the driver, who might not yet be aware of the imminent cut-in. In this case the system applies just a mild brake initially, with an icon appearing on the driver display , informing the driver why a slow-down occurs.. It then proceeds to apply a stronger brake to adapt the velocity to keep a safe distance. Dr. Kleinehagenbrock, responsible for i-ACC at Honda R&D Europe (Deutschland) GmbH says, ‘i-ACC takes cruise control systems to a whole new level, offering what we call ‘predictive safety’.

i-ACC recognises the side of the road you are driving on whether in the UK or on the continent and automatically detects which neighbouring vehicle is the most critical to be aware of at any given moment. 

i-ACC is the result of an in-house Research & Development project undertaken by an international Honda team in Europe and Japan, specifically designed for European roads. Research into driver behaviour to develop the algorithm was carried out across Europe.

Dr. Schmuedderich, responsible for i-ACC at Honda Research Institute Europe GmbH comments: “i-ACC is a significant breakthrough and a considerable further step towards a new generation of driver assistance systems that anticipate the behavior of other traffic participants.”

*i-ACC will be available on the 2015 European CR-V, Executive grade only.

HONDA'S BRAND NEW HR-V TO EXCITE MALAYSIANS!

Petaling Jaya, 6th January 2015 - The All-New HR-V which has been making waves in every country it has been launched, will be hitting Malaysian shores in February 2015.  The All-New HR-V (Hip & Smart Runabout Vehicle) is a new generation vehicle that fuses together the dynamic qualities and secure feelings of an SUV, the excitement and personal feel of a Coupe and the functionality and comfort of a Minivan. In essence, the All-New HR-V is a perfect marriage of individuality and usability.



The All-New HR-V is a new segment in vehicle offerings and this Dynamic New Generation Compact SUV is set to be well received in Malaysia as it incorporates spaciousness,      user-friendliness and functional in its features. With smart interface features and advanced technology adoptions, this new generation compact SUV is set to deliver dynamic performance that combines elegance and fun while providing top safety.

Under the hood, the All-New HR-V features a 1.8L i-VTEC SOHC engine built on a new Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) developed under Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology that enhances both driving performance and fuel economy. The new compact and lightweight CVT features high-efficiency electric oil pump and high strength belt, which improves fuel economy and ensures smooth rapid acceleration.

Size-wise, the All-New HR-V measures 4,294 mm in length, 1,772 mm in width and 1,605 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,610 mm. The wide viewing angle was secured through optimization of the width and angle of the front pillars in order to provide good visibility for the driver. With perfect eye point level, drivers have better viewpoint and a greater sense of security. Driving comfort is further enhanced with low centre of gravity. Keeping to its sporty and bold style, the car is fitted with 16” alloy wheels.

This multi-dimensional compact SUV has increased body rigidity and stability with its super high tensile steel including hot-stamped materials installed at appropriate spots. In addition, the front and rear parts of the body were effectively reinforced to realise the lightweight and highly rigid body that generates sportiness and linear driving performance. Driving pleasure is enhanced with reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), by adopting high-performance sound absorbing and insulating materials installed in the rear area and front inner fenders, floor carpets and floor undercover.

The front face is designed to look bold and tough with unified stylish front grille that's created under the 'Solid Wing Face' concept. The strong distinctive character lines on the sides fuse together the sleek cabin of a coupe and the dynamic lower body exudes toughness. Combining the character lines and rear door handles which are integrated into the side windows, the feeling of an elegant and sporty two-door coupe was created.

The interior design of the High-deck Centre Console is made possible for the first time by adopting the Electric Parking Brake, replacing the hand/foot brake. The new design allows drivers to have their own personal space without infringing into the passenger space. Along with the High-deck Centre Console, a new kind of Multi-utility Drink Holder is developed to not only hold drinks but also to store personal items.

In order to enhance the All-New HR-V's amazing cabin space for driver and passengers, the length of the seat bottom was increased creating ample legroom, while the seatback angle was optimised for better seating posture. This provides optimum comfort and reduces strain to drivers when driving for long hours. The All-New HR-V features high quality material as fabric and soft pad were used for most occupant touch points.

Honda's original centre-tank layout enabled the realisation of a large cargo space and minivan-like rear seats with ample elbowroom. The All-New HR-V is further supported with the Multi-utility cargo space that allows various configurations of seating. The seat dimensions are set for easy manoeuverability and can be arranged into 3 modes - Utility Mode, Tall Mode, and Long Mode. The tailgate opening is as wide as 1,180 mm while the ground height of the tailgate opening is 650 mm, one of the lowest within the class, providing convenience for easy loading and unloading.

Its smart interface features include a 7-inch Display Audio, One Touch Turn Signal and Touch Panel Air Conditioning for a smooth, at-your-fingertip operation. This innovation supports the smart drive concept that is evident in the All-New HR-V. The speedometer also features an illumination ring, which changes colour based on the driving mode to indicate economical driving.

In effort to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants and other road users, Honda has embraced a comprehensive approach to vehicle safety that seeks to provide a high level of active and passive occupant protection along with features such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Daytime Running Light (DRL), ISOFIX and 6 Airbags (Dual Front SRS Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags and Side Airbags).

The All-New HR-V comes with the new Automatic Brake Hold feature that can be easily activated with a push of the switch. Once it's activated, whenever the driver stops the vehicle by braking, the system automatically holds the vehicle in position without the driver stepping on the brake. This provides convenience to the driver when in a temporary stationary mode. Another new feature introduced in the All-New HR-V is the Electric Parking Brake. It is an advanced parking brake which can be operated by a switch lever. When the conditions (seatbelt and shift position) are fulfilled, the system automatically releases the parking brake with the step of the accelerator pedal.

The All-New HR-V will be available for booking at all 77 dealers nationwide from 6 January 2015 onwards. In conjunction with the upcoming All New HR-V launch, Honda is also organising roadshows at the following locations:

6-11 January 2015
Mid Valley, Kuala Lumpur
West Lobby (Starbucks)

9-11 January 2015
Sunway Carnival, Penang
Sub Court

12-14 January 2015
Avenue K, Kuala Lumpur
Sub Court

16-18 January 2015
Paradigm Mall, Petaling Jaya
Walkway

16-18 January 2015
KSL Mall, Johor Bahru
Sub Court

23-25 January 2015
Village Mall, Sungai Petani
Entrance

For more information, please call Honda's Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020, or log onto www.honda.com.my.

New Honda S660 interior photo !

What is claimed to be a photo of the brochure for Honda's new S660 open-top K-sized 'sports car' has been leaked on the internet. At the moment, the one we are aware of is put up on the indian car blog below. Eventually I think it will be put up on other blogs.

Along with the photo is also a table which is claimed to be the specifications of the car. The car will be K-car sized and will comply with the Japanese regulations for Kei-cars - with a 660cc engine and delivering a max of 63ps at 6,000rpm. It is supposed to be turbocharged (the original Honda Beat on which this S660 is supposed to be replacing is NA). 

It is said that this S660 is due to be launched in Japan this month but has since been delayed to early next year, with delivery to begin only around mid of the year. 

The link is below:

http://indianautosblog.com/2014/12/honda-s660-details-leaked-japan-163011

New NSX to debut on Jan 12th next year !

Acura NSX Production Model to Make World Debut
at 2015 North American International Auto Show

TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 17, 2014 – The production version of the highly anticipated Acura NSX supercar, successor to the legendary original NSX, will make its world debut at the 2015 North American International Auto Show on Jan. 12, 2015. The model will reflect the production design and specifications of the mid-engine Acura supercar that is slated to launch in 2015. To celebrate the impending debut of NSX, Acura released a 30-second teaser video that gives an early glimpse of the production car and the sound of its three-motor, twin-turbocharged Sport Hybrid power unit. View the video on Acura’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/Acura.

“The next-generation NSX will deliver a ‘new sports experience’ true to its heritage and to the supercar concept that originally gave rise to the name NSX,” said Mike Accavitti, Acura division senior vice president and general manager. “The NSX will serve as the ultimate expression of Acura performance that is fueling a reenergised brand.”

An Acura NSX concept model made its debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, where Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President & CEO Takanobu Ito announced that development of a next-generation NSX would launch in three years, led by an American R&D team and produced at a state-of-the-art new plant in Ohio.

“After three years of intensive development work we are excited to reveal this next-generation supercar—the Acura NSX—to the world,” said Ted Klaus, chief engineer and global project leader over NSX development. “We’ve developed a human-centered supercar that responds to the will of the driver and that builds upon the NSX heritage.”

The next milestone in the launch of the NSX will be the reveal of the production version at the Acura press conference at the North American International Auto Show on Jan. 12 at 11:50 a.m. ET. Watch the press conference live at youtube.com/Acura.

The NSX is being developed by a global team of engineers led by the company’s North American R&D operations in Raymond, Ohio, with design led by the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, CA. The Acura NSX will be produced exclusively at the new Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Honda Civic MMC for Malaysia, official press release

HONDA UNVEILS NEW CIVIC WITH ENHANCED

PREMIUM FEATURES AND YOUTHFUL APPEARANCE

• Attractive enhancement with safety upgrades, advanced features and price reduction for all three variants of 1.8L S, 2.0L S and 2.0L Navi
• Honda Malaysia targets to sell 625 units per month

Petaling Jaya, 20 November 2014 – Honda Malaysia unveiled the New Civic today with value-added features, smart technologies and it comes with a bolder appearance with new front grille design and aggressive-looking lower grille assembly.

The New Civic is even more attractive with Honda Malaysia’s announcement of the new pricing, which is a reduction from the current price. The on-the-road price tag for 1.8L S is now at RM113,800, 2.0L S is at RM125,800 and 2.0L Navi is at RM132,800. On top of the price reduction, all three variants of the New Civic attained added features which provide better value to the customers.

Civic 1.8L S	Civic 2.0L S	Civic 2.0L Navi
ü  Smart Entry with Push Start Button ü  Auto Headlamp ü  Cruise Control ü  Chrome Handle	ü  Side Curtain Airbags (6 Airbags) ü  Auto Headlamp	ü  Side Curtain Airbags (6 Airbags) ü  Auto Headlamp ü  New Enhanced  7” Display Audio  + HDMI / Navigation / MirrorLink

Table: Upgraded features of the New Civic

Honda Malaysia Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Mr.Yoichiro Ueno said, “The upgrades and enhancements in the New Civic are based on our customers’ feedback and from our evaluation of the market expectations. We are determined to deliver customer satisfaction at the highest level by providing high quality products with the best value for money in order to increase the joy of owning a Honda car.” Incorporating the “Youthful and Premium” concept, the New Civic introduced with smart technologies and safety features is targeting at working adults, young families and urbanites who demands for a stylish yet practical daily companion for their busy, exciting and varied lifestyles.

The engine platform of the New Civic for 1.8L delivers maximum output of 141PS and 174NM while the 2.0L delivers 155PS and 190NM. The trusted SOHC i-VTEC powertrain combined with a five speed automatic transmission gearbox delivers high level driving performance while achieving better fuel economy. The smart ECO Assist function guides the driver to drive more efficiently and the ECON Mode button improves the vehicle’s fuel efficiency with a push of a button.

In terms of exterior, the New Civic appears more aggressive with the new front grille and lower grille assembly. The 1.8L variant comes with 16-inch alloy wheel while the 2.0L obtains the 17-inch.

Additionally, an upgrade for the 1.8L S and 2.0L S includes the refinement of its interior door handle where the thickness and quality of material has been improved by 30% and the 2.0L Navi variant is refined with ‘Piano Black Finish’. The 2.0L Navi is also further enhanced with a futuristic cockpit featuring 7” Display Audio with Navigation, HDMI and MirrorLink. All three variants are equipped with the advanced Smart Entry with Push Start button for extra convenience to the customers.

With safety being a commitment and priority for Honda, the New Civic will be equipped with highest safety specifications as all three variants comes with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system that combines with Motion Adaptive EPS (Electronic Power Steering) system to stabilize the vehicle and driving controls during understeer and oversteer conditions. Through the innovation of Honda’s Advance Compability Engineering (ACE) body structure, it provides improved crash compatibility between different sizes of vehicles. The New Civic is now equipped with 6 Airbags (2.0L S and 2.0L Navi variants). Customers of the 9^thGeneration Civic would be pleased to note that the Civic is known for being a safe family sedan with a 5-star ASEAN NCAP achievement.

Sales target for the New Civic is 7,500 units a year which is an increase of 44% compared to when it was first launched in 2012. Moreover, the 9^thGeneration Civic has contributed more than 16,900 units of sales as of October 2014. The much loved Civic in Malaysia has sold more than 75,000 units since the introduction of the 7^thGeneration in 2003. The New Civic will feature a new colour (Twilight Blue) added into the lineup of existing colours of Taffeta White, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl. Currently, the waiting period for the New Civic is one month upon booking.

The New Civic will also carry one of the most attractive after-sales service packages of 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage, service interval of 10,000 km and free labour service up to 6 visits for every alternate paid service until 100,000km.

For more information on the New Civic or to book a test drive, visit any of the 78 authorized Honda dealers nationwide or please call Honda’s Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020, or log on to www.honda.com.my.

New Civic Type-R video

Honda has published a new teaser video featuring the 10G Civic Type-R. Many of the new info from the recent press release are repeated in this video, including confirmation that the engine will be 2.0l VTEC Turbo with a max power of over 280ps and a red-line of 7,000rpm. And that it will be the most hardcore and highest performing Type-R, even faster, it is claimed, than the legendary NSX-R. The link to the video is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAHI9XD8nzA.

New : High resolution photo of Honda's Formula-1 engine

Honda has published an official page for their Formula-1 engine that they will be supplying to the McLaren team as part of their joint F1 racing efforts in next year's season. The page can be accessed by going to the link http://world.honda.com/Formula-1/powerunit/05/ .

Honda has also provided a high resolution photo of the engine which is only available for download by media. We have downloaded that photo for you below.

Honda will also be providing a video of the F1 engine on October 6th so make sure to visit their worldwide website at http://world.honda.com on that date.

Honda also provided the following comments by Yasuhisa Arai, Senior Managing Officer of Honda R&D Co., Ltd., who is heading the F1 Project: 

"Working toward Honda's F1 participation starting in the 2015 season, development of the power unit is entering its prime phase at our R&D facility in Sakura (Tochigi, Japan), where we transferred our automobile motor sports development earlier this year. In addition to conducting simulations, we have moved onto the next stage where we conduct full-fledged bench tests of the engine while connecting the turbocharger and energy recovery systems. In the meantime, our racing operation base in Milton Keynes, United Kingdom, has become fully operational. At this time, we are unveiling an image of our power unit that is under development. The whole team is concentrating on this development, getting ready for the forthcoming start of F1 participation in 6 months. Please stay tuned for further updates."