How the Honda Accord's Innovative Hybrid System Works

Most of the attention for Honda's Accord hybrid will come from its eye-popping 50-mpg EPA city rating and under-$30,000 starting price. But those with an eye for engineering will see a creative combination of new technology with elements from the Chevrolet Volt, Toyota Prius and Ford Fusion Hybrid.

"Honda put in all we had," said Koji Ninomiya, chief engineer for the Accord Hybrid, through an interpreter. "We did our best, and we ended up at 50 mpg."

The car, which gets to dealerships in late October, uses three drive modes to crack the 50-mpg figure -- something no other mid-sized car, including the European diesels, can match.

Ninomiya said 50 mpg or any specific number was not the goal when Honda engineers began nearly a decade ago studying a new hybrid powertrain to replace its current design.

"We considered everything, [including] driving resistance and regenerative braking. We made the powertrain all new, and the biggest purpose of this was to aim for the most efficient system in the world. As we tried to optimize the efficiency, we decided two motors will be best," he said.

Here's how the two electric motors work in the Accord Hybrid's three drive modes, EV, Hybrid and Engine.

• EV mode: The car is propelled only by an electric motor powered by the lithium ion battery pack. The top speed is about 60 mph, but the range is very limited, just a few miles. Once the battery is depleted, the car automatically switches to Hybrid mode.

• Hybrid mode: The Accord Hybrid works a lot like a Chevrolet Volt. The 2.0-liter gasoline engine powers a generator to create electricity for the electric motor. Honda calls the generator a motor, hence two motors. Only the electric motor, fed by the generator, moves the car in Hybrid mode.

• Engine mode: The electric motor is decoupled, and the Accord's Atkinson cycle gasoline engine drives the wheels directly through a one-gear transmission. In that highway gear -- similar in efficiency to a sixth gear on a manual transmission -- the gasoline engine runs in its sweet spot, delivering both strong acceleration when needed and high fuel economy.

Ford and Toyota hybrids also use Atkinson cycle engines. The Accord's Atkinson cycle 2.0-liter gasoline engine is a first for Honda.

In an Atkinson cycle engine, the intake valves remain open briefly during the compression stroke. That pushes some of the air in the cylinders into the intake manifold, which lowers the compression ratio. That enables fast, smooth starts, which is ideal for hybrids. The downside is that it reduces power.

To solve that problem, Honda engineers installed VTEC, a system that electronically controls the timing of the valves with camshafts that have two sets of lobes. One set of lobes is for the Atkinson cycle; the other is for normal combustion. The engine's computer switches back and forth between the two sets of lobes, based on engine speed and load.

Other new technologies include the car's innovative regenerative brakes, which send electricity to the battery. Regeneration begins the instant a driver's foot leaves the accelerator, not when the brake pedal is pressed as it does on other hybrids.

The air-cooled lithium ion battery pack fits in a compact case between the rear seat and the trunk. The pack does reduce trunk space. The hybrid's trunk is 12.7 cubic feet, while the regular Accord's trunk is 15.8.

Honda will offer three versions of the Accord Hybrid. The base model starts at $29,155; a midlevel E-XL version, at $31,905; and the loaded Touring, at $34,905. The prices exclude shipping; figures haven't been announced.

Honda is assembling the Accord Hybrid at its Marysville plant; it is the first time the Accord Hybrid has been built in North America.

The car's innovative powertrain could help win back some former Honda fans who deserted the brand for other makes with more advanced engines and transmissions.

In the past, Honda had stuck with nickel-metal hydride batteries in its hybrids while other automakers developed more efficient gasoline-electric powertrains that use lighter, stronger lithium ion batteries.

And in its gasoline-powered cars, the company has been slow to shift to automatic transmissions with more than four speeds.

The result of that strategy: middle-of-the-pack fuel economy ratings and a string of misfires dating back nearly a decade, including the failed 2004-06 Accord Hybrid, a slow selling Civic Hybrid and dismal sales for the Insight and CR-Z hybrids.

The Accord Hybrid's 50 mpg is "a pretty strong statement," said California dealer Dave Conant. He is CEO of The C.A.R. Group, which owns 13 stores, including four Honda outlets.

"For a long time Honda sort of owned the territory," he said. "I think a 50-mpg Accord is going to absolutely swing people back to thinking of Honda as a fuel economy leader. It's long overdue, honestly."

New Accord Hybrid will get 50 mpg, Honda says

The 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid, which is built in Marysville, has a range of 673 miles.

The new Honda Accord Hybrid will have a best-in-class fuel economy rating of 50 mpg when it goes on sale later this year.

Honda released the fuel-economy figure yesterday for that vehicle, which is being assembled in Marysville.

“It’s an impressive number,” said John O’Dell, senior editor for Edmunds.com. “To have a good-size car with decent fuel economy is a good thing.”

The gas-electric hybrid will have an EPA fuel-economy rating of 50 mpg in the city,

45 mpg on the highway and a combined rating of 47 mpg. It will have a driving range of

673 miles, which is the most in its segment.

As is often the case with hybrids, the city rating is higher than on the highway because the vehicle uses the brakes to help charge the battery in stop-and-start situations.

The Accord’s fuel efficiency is the same or better than other midsize hybrids. The closest competitor is the Ford Fusion Hybrid, which has a rating of 47 mpg in the city and a combined rating of 47 mpg.

The Accord Hybrid is the first hybrid assembled in Ohio by any major automaker. Honda spent $18.8 million and added 50 jobs in Marysville to add hybrid production, the company said.

“We are extremely proud of that 50 (mpg) number,” said Steve Rodriguez, engineering project leader for the Accord Hybrid. “It’s great to be part of that.”

He pointed to several engineering decisions that helped to reduce the vehicle’s weight and improve its fuel economy. For example, the Accord Hybrid has a rear bumper beam made of aluminum instead of steel, he said.

Pricing for the vehicle has not yet been disclosed.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets guidelines for automakers to test vehicles and come up with the fuel-economy figures that appear in the window sticker.

In some cases, the companies get it wrong and have to revise the numbers. That is what happened this summer with the Ford C-Max hybrid, following complaints from customers. Ford dropped the rating on the compact crossover from 47 mpg to 43 mpg and agreed to compensate buyers for the error.

“People should never take the EPA mileage rating as gospel,” O’Dell said. “It’s just a guide.”

Check out the Route 23 Honda Inventory here.

New Honda Accord Hybrid Poised to Return Class-Leading Fuel Efficiency

As a pioneering manufacturer of hybrid vehicles since the introduction of the Insight in 1999, it is no surprise that Honda keeps pushing the boundaries of gas-electric technology. The latest example is the all-new 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid, which is aiming to shake up the midsize-sedan category with class-leading fuel efficiency. Though official figures from the EPA are still pending, Honda estimates that the upcoming hybrid version of its best-selling vehicle will return 49 mpg in the city, topping every other hybrid midsize sedan.

The 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid will achieve its leading efficiency thanks to a brand-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with a 124-kilowatt electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. Three different driving modes will be available, including the options of running in gas- or electric-only modes, or using them in combination for maximum power. The Accord Hybrid will also be able to transition intelligently between modes when needed, delivering optimal power to the transmission while minimizing fuel consumption.

"Honda is going for the hybrid crown by taking its most popular vehicle and giving it similar fuel economy to the Prius," said Frank McLaughlin, general manager of a Greater Boston Honda dealership. "When the Honda Accord Hybrid goes on sale this October, it will attract those drivers who have been waiting out for a hybrid that doesn't require them to compromise on performance, space or refinement."

Technological innovations are not limited to the powertrain in the Accord Hybrid. Buyers will be able to opt for some of the most advanced safety features on the market, including Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning and the industry-first LaneWatch blind-spot display. A multi-angle rearview camera will provide additional points of view while displaying guidelines for increased safety. Drivers will also have available access to detailed information on performance, efficiency, entertainment and navigation through easy-to-read console and dashboard screens, including an eight-inch color display.

Bolstering Honda's lineup of electrified and alternative-fuel models, the Accord Hybrid joins its Accord Plug-In sibling, which went on sale earlier this year in certain regions and returns 115 MPGe combined on the city and highway. The Honda Insight remains an efficient option on the market, and the Honda Civic sedan offers both hybrid and natural-gas models. For a subcompact car that is also 100 percent electric, the limited-release Honda Fit EV is rated at an impressive 118 MPGe combined, while buyers who like to optimize responsiveness in their hybrid can opt for the sporty Honda CR-Z.

"Honda is continually expanding its line of green vehicles, and the popular midsize sedan category was the next logical step for developing its most advanced hybrid model to date," added McLaughlin. "The value of the Accord Hybrid comes not only from its fuel efficiency, but also from its intuitive safety features that you can expect to find in luxury sedans."

Honda Reveals Next-Generation Fit, Teases Crossover and Hybrid Models

Honda has released first official images of the new 2015 Fit, set to begin production in Mexico next spring, along with information teasing an expanded model range.

The new Honda Fit looks sportier and substantial, but it still appears to have the tall, upright greenhouse that gives the current version its great visibility and interior space. Honda promises nicer interior materials, along with the latest infotainment and connectivity features. The new Fit will use a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine from Honda's fuel-efficient Earth Dreams powertrain family, along with a continuously variable transmission. A six-speed manual may also be an option.

The company also plans to introduce one or more SUV-type models based on the Fit, such as previewed by the Urban SUV Concept. At least one Fit-spinoff will include a hybrid variant using Honda's new i-DCD full-hybrid system.

Whenever we test a new small car, it always gets compared to a Honda Fit. That's because every version of the Fit that we've driven has delivered an impressive blend of space, efficiency, sportiness, and value. It sets a high standard. We hope the next-generation Fit lives up to the reputation, but based on the automaker's hit-or-miss launch history (ahem, Civic), there is no guaranty.

Interested in a Honda Fit? Check out our Fit inventory!

Come in for a test drive today!

Earth Day 2013 with Route 23 Honda

What are you doing for Earth Day 2013? Why not spend it with us?!

On Saturday, April 20^th at the Pearl R. Miller School in Kinnelon from 12 Noon to 4PM Route 23 Honda will be a sponsor at the annual Earth Day Fair Celebration.

We’ll be offering test-drives on two Honda Hybrids, the CR-Z and the Insight! These vehicles are great Green alternatives.

CR-Z: The philosophy of a fun, lightweight 2-seat coupe continues with the CR-Z. Featuring a mode for every mood, the 3-mode drive system lets you change how the car performs in real time. If you want efficiency, simply push the ECON button; for more thrills, go for Sport mode; and for a combination of the two, remain in Normal. Using the latest generation of IMA technology, the 2013 CR-Z set the standard for nimble small cars of the modern era, just like its predecessors did back in their day.

Insight: The original Honda Insight 2-seat coupe, introduced in late 1999, broke new ground as the first gasoline-electric hybrid car sold in America. Aerodynamic and innovative, the Insight redefined the way the industry thought about fuel-efficient vehicles. The centerpiece of this groundbreaking car was the compact and efficient Integrated Motor Assist IMA® hybrid powertrain.

2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid

So what's new for 2014 you ask? The 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid is an all-new model!

Introduction

Honda recently redesigned the Accord for its ninth generation, improving the sedan's interior and exterior styling. For 2014, the Honda Accord gains a new model, the Accord Plug-In Hybrid. With this new addition to the lineup, Honda becomes one of the few automakers to offer a midsize family sedan in a plug-in hybrid configuration.

Unlike Honda's other hybrids such as the Insight, the Plug-In has an all-new hybrid system that's capable of accelerating the car using pure electric power. And as its name implies, the Plug-In can be recharged externally, thereby minimizing gas usage. Honda says the Accord Plug-In provides about 10-15 miles of pure electric range, after which point it switches over to normal hybrid operation. In regular hybrid mode, this Accord earns EPA estimates of 47 mpg city/46 mpg highway and 46 mpg combined.

Like the standard Accord, the plug-in hybrid offers similar features and comes in one well-appointed trim level based on the standard Accord Touring trim. That includes LED headlights, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a navigation system and monitoring of vitals like charge status, charging stations and even enabled remote charging controlled by smartphone apps. Honda says a full battery charge on a 120-volt outlet will take three hours, while charging on a 240-volt outlet takes less than one hour.

For now Honda will only sell the Accord Plug-In Hybrid in California and New York, so consider yourself lucky if you're interested in the car and happen to live in one of those states. We've yet to fully test the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In, but check back for a complete evaluation in the coming months.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid comes in one well-equipped trim level.

Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, foglamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, full power accessories, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, special "bio-fabric" upholstery, heated front and rear seats, an eight-way power driver seat (with power lumbar), driver memory settings and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Electronic features include Bluetooth connectivity, an 8-inch touchscreen interface, voice recognition, a navigation system and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio, an iPod/USB interface and smartphone app integration (HondaLink). Adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning and a blind-spot monitor are also standard.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor. Together, they send a total of 196 horsepower to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). A 6.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack powers the electric motor.

The Accord Plug-In Hybrid offers three driving modes: full electric, gas/electric (switches when battery capacity depletes to a specific threshold) and gasoline (for higher speeds or under high demand for acceleration). Additionally, two sub-modes tailor the Accord Plug-In's hybrid mode. "HV" acts as a conventional hybrid, blending gasoline and electric power for optimum fuel efficiency, while "HV Charge" does the same, while feeding energy back into the battery.

The EPA estimates stand at 47 mpg city/46 mpg highway and 46 mpg combined.

Safety

The 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid comes with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. Blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure and forward-collision warning systems are also standard.

Of note is the LaneWatch blind-spot system, which instantly switches the 8-inch screen's display to a low and expansive view of the passenger side of the car when the right turn signal is engaged. A camera in the right-side mirror dedicated to this function provides a confidence-inspiring view, and acclimating to catching the view in the center-dash display is quick and natural.

Interior Design and Special Features

With a few exceptions, the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid features an elegant and well-constructed cabin trimmed with high-quality materials that you could almost mistake for an Acura. The center stack embraces the spirit of legibility with an effective three-tier layout, capped at the top with an 8-inch display.

Despite the new Accord's slightly smaller exterior dimensions compared to the previous generation, its interior room remains impressive. There is plenty of leg and shoulder space for front occupants, and rear-seat passengers should be quite comfortable and happy. Road and tire noise -- often among Honda's traditional weaknesses -- are noticeably reduced in the 2014 Accord thanks in part to two active noise-cancellation systems plus improved aerodynamics.

We're also fond of the visibility afforded by the Accord cabin, which offers a lower beltline, slimmer roof pillars and a generous amount of glass. Unfortunately, the presence of the plug-in hybrid's battery pack means the rear seat does not fold down, thus limiting the Accord's cargo usefulness. The trunk, at 8.6 cubic feet, is also considerably smaller than the regular Accord's.

Driving Impressions

We've yet to test the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid, so check back for impressions on the car's new plug-in hybrid powertrain and handling capabilities.

Kelley Blue Book Names 2013 Insight in Top Spot

Kelley Blue Book has awarded the 2013 Honda Insight the number one spot for the Hybrid/Alternative Energy Car category for the 2013 5-Year Cost to Own Awards.

Holding onto the title as the most affordable hybrid on the market, the Honda Insight presents an even stronger value proposition with the alluring mix of quality, reliability and fuel efficiency on which the Honda brand has built its reputation.

Come visit our showroom and check out the 2013 Insight for yourself. Your 2013 Honda Insight is waiting for you right here in our inventory. 

March MPG Mania at Route 23 Honda!

Are rising gas prices getting you down? We have been experiencing some of the highest gas prices we have ever seen and drivers are not happy. Luckily, Honda's team of fuel-efficient vehicles is hard to match.  Route 23 Honda has several teams ready to take on the most intense gas prices.  

31+ Team Lineup: CR-V, Civic SI, Fit, Accord Sedan, and Accord Coupe  

With so many options getting over 31mpg, it's hard to decide which car you'll want to drive around all day without worrying too much about the prices at the pump. Luckily for you, we know that all of these cars are efficient and have a little something for everyone!  

39+ Team Lineup: CR-Z, Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe  

When was the last time you had a car that got 39+ mpg? Honda has stepped their game up.  They are providing us with not one, but three great cars that will keep you going for longer. Save your money and go for a joy ride.

41+ Team Lineup: Insight, Civic Hybrid, and Civic HF.  

Over 41 mpg! The Ultimate defense.

Become a part of March MPG Mania with Route 23 Honda so you can go further while keeping your wallet happy.


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2012 Honda Civic: 10 of Many Things To Know

With the release of the 2012 Civic, Honda kept it conservative, which is not a bad thing when it comes to one of the best selling cars, ever. Though similar to last year's predecessor, there all still some big changes, along with some small ones that you may not have known about, until now.
  

2012 Civic LX Sedan - $149/month!

1) The Civic has 5 different models to choose from, giving a little something for every demographic. Choose from the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe, the sporty Civic Si (Sedan or Coupe), most fuel efficient Civic HF, and Civic Hybrid.

2) Also available, in some markets, is the Green Car of the Year: 2012, the Honda Civic Natural Gas. This car provides a cheaper fuel alternative that gives off less green house gases.

3) Honda has improved the aerodynamics of the 2012 Civic, adding to fuel efficiency. A new wheel design, smaller grill opening, flat under body, longer hood, and sculpted bumpers all lower the drag coefficient.

4) Each model has shed the pounds as well, ranging from 20-55 less, varying on the model, with the greatest drop in the EX-L (58 pounds less).

5) The new Civic has four more cubic feet of room with 1.6 more inches of back seat leg room. Altogether, the interior feels and looks much more roomier than before.

6) Thinner A Pillars on the windshield increase forward visibility, minimizing those pesky blind spots around curves.

7) Less noise enters the cabin, which may seem like the engine is not working as hard, but trust us, it definitely is. Enjoy a more enjoyable ride and save your ears by being able to lower the tunes, if you want.

8) Upgraded from last year is the plastic interior, adding to the all around aesthetic quality of the car.

9) Comfort should be a top priority in a car, and Honda made sure that this happened in the new Civic. Seats are now more supportive, and the lumbar support is less intrusive. Don't fall asleep at the wheel!

10) Last, but not least, is the addition of a 5-inch screen, called intelligent Multi-Information Display, which displays info such as blue tooth, the trip computer, a clock, and audio functions.

Now that you know what has been upgraded, all you have to decide is what model is right for you. Learn all the other great qualities of each 2012 Civic directly from Honda with this 2012 Honda Civic Brochure

Route 23 Honda has the knowledge and expertise to guide you to the perfect choice. Come down to Route 23 Honda today or visit www.route23hondaoffers.com to check out the $149/month deal on the Civic Sedan!

Trust Us, Drive Us!