Honda officially announced two new hybrid prototypes which will become the basis for future production models. We are talking about the Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype and the crossover Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype. According to Western media, they are harbingers of the next generation of the Accord and Acura RDX. The premiere is expected to take place within the next two years.
For the Japanese manufacturer, this project has strategic value. Honda is changing its development course and betting not only on EVs, but also on modern hybrids. The reason is the slowdown in demand for full EVs and the high cost of development. The company admitted that the market is not ready for a rapid rejection of traditional engines, and hybrid technology is considered the main transitional step.
main technological innovation will be the next-generation hybrid powertrain. At its core is a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine along with more compact electric motors. Honda claims that the new system will reduce production costs by more than 30 percent compared to current hybrids. Besides that, fuel efficiency will increase by more than 10 percent.
Special attention was given by engineers to the AWD system. The new electric AWD transmission should provide more precise torque distribution and better handling in corners. For the Acura RDX, this is especially crucial because the model will be positioned as a premium sport crossover.
Visually, both prototypes look almost identical to production models. The sedan received a stretched silhouette with narrow headlights and an aerodynamic body profile. The Acura crossover differs with massive air intakes, huge wheels and a more aggressive front-end design. Experts note that Honda has almost completely rejected futuristic solutions in favor of a realistic and production-ready design.
Honda confirmed the launch of 15 new models over the next three years. The list will include both updated cars and completely new platforms. Production facilities in North America have already started adapting for the launch of hybrid cars. A key role in this strategy will be played by the factory in Ohio.
In fact, Honda is now showing a new approach to model lineup development. A few years ago, the brand was actively talking almost exclusively about EVs, but now the emphasis is on hybrid technologies, which allow it to maintain long range, reduce fuel consumption and simultaneously avoid problems with charging infrastructure. For the global market, this could become one of the most notable strategic shifts in recent years.
