Honda Announces Revolutionary Next-Generation "Earth Dreams Technology"
Tokyo - New plan calls for top-of-industry fuel efficiency in every vehicle class within 3 years
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. recently announced the outline for a revolutionary next-generation technology for automobiles called "Earth Dreams Technology."
"Earth Dreams Technology" is a next generation set of technological advancements which greatly enhance both driving performance and fuel efficiency at a high level, using as its base advanced environmental technologies to pursue the joy of driving unique to Honda. It is a series of measures in which efficiency of internal combustion components including engine, and transmission, as well as electric-powered motor technology, is further improved.
Through its implementation first in the mini-vehicle N BOX and gradually onto other vehicle models, Honda aims to achieve top-of-industry fuel efficiency for every category within three years, while simultaneously setting a timeline of 2020 to reduce by 30% CO2 emissions for all products sold worldwide, relative to emission figures for 2000.
Key features of "Earth Dreams Technology"
- A gasoline engine which realizes top level driving performance and fuel efficiency.
- A compact diesel engine which realizes the world's lightest body, top-of-class acceleration performance and fuel efficiency.
- CVT which combines at a high level the fun of driving and fuel efficiency.
- A two-motor hybrid system which realizes top-of-industry efficiency.
- A high-efficiency, high output electric SH-AWD hybrid system which combines superior driving and environmental performance.
- A compact, high efficiency electric powertrain for EVs.
Summary of key features
- Gasoline engine which achieves top-of-industry driving performance and fuel efficiency
a. By enhancing Honda's original VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System) technology to thoroughly improve thermal efficiency and minimize friction, a combination of high output and fuel efficiency was achieved. Further, a new engine series employing a new structure for higher expandability was developed.
b. By gradually renewing the engine starting with the mini-vehicle N BOX, Honda aims to utilize this technology to achieve top-of-industry output and fuel efficiency in every vehicle class within three years.
c. A wide range of engine classes including the 660cc, 1.3L, 1.5L, 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.4L, and 3.5L classes will feature the technology.
- 660cc class engine
Employs DOHC and VTC (Variable Timing Control) to improve intake efficiency. Further, the compact combustion chamber realizes high thermal efficiency.
By shortening the bore pitch compared to the present engine models and reducing the thickness of the cylinder block and camshaft, engine weight is reduced by 15% and fuel efficiency is improved by 10%.
- 1.3 to 1.5L class engine
Employs VTC, direct injection technology and the Atkinson cycle using the DOHC, VTEC technologies as the base.
Extensive friction reduction measures are implemented.
- 1.8 to 2.0L class engine
Employs direct injection technology and the Atkinson cycle using the DOHC, VTEC technologies as the base. Further, implementation of VTC and high-capacity EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) to both the intake and exhaust ports realizes significantly reduced friction.
For the 2.0L class hybrid vehicle engines, use of an electric water pump eliminates the need for a belt in the auxiliary device and contributes to a reduction in friction. The VTC system allows fuel-efficient driving in various driving styles.
- 2.4L class engine
Based on the DOHC and VTEC technologies, it employs VTC and direct injection technology and implements extensive friction reduction measures.
Standalone engine features 5% improvements in fuel efficiency and output as well as a 10% improvement in maximum torque compared to the previous engine.
- 3.5L class engine
Employs new valve train mechanisms and direct injection technology in the SOHC, VTEC, VMC systems to improve by over 10% of fuel efficiency and 5% of output, relative to the present standalone engine model.
SOURCE: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.