 
Honda and Toyota have pioneered hybrid cars with their Insight and Prius models. Now Honda has done one better, by winning the Green Car of
the Year award in the US by the Environment Transport Association (ETA).
 The Honda Hybrid emits just 101 grams of carbon dioxide per one
kilometer (101g/k). The Insight provides interactive features on its
dashboard display to help drivers achieve better fuel economy and lower
emissions.
The dashboard changes background colors to help coach the driver on
green scoring. The gauges show plant-leaf graphics and a scoring
function which is designed to provide feedback to the driver.
The
display is part of Honda's Eco-Assist that has an Eco Guide to provide
feedback on braking and acceleration to help with driving efficiency.
The Honda Hybrid is powered by an advanced 1.3-liter engine. It has a
system that incorporates a 10-kilowatt (13 hp) electric motor and a
compact Intelligent Power Unit (IPU).
 This technology recaptures kinetic
energy from the vehicle braking system. The battery and IPU are located
in the vehicle's rear floorboard which provides electric power in
certain low to mid-speed driving conditions.
The electric battery also provides for cylinder deactivation within
the gasoline engine during deceleration and for engine shutoff when the
vehicle is stopped.
The car comes with a big fuel tank that can deliver a maximum driving
range in excess of 600 kilometers.
The new 2010 model is a four-door, four seater hatchback, Honda
having ditched the two seater model. It is also cheaper than the Prius,
but the 13hp electrtic motor is no match for the latter's 67 hp version.
 The Insight is thus a "mild hybrid" that uses its electric motor as a
supplement than a replacement for the gasoline engine. The Insight
engine shuts off seamlessly when the car comes to a stop. The
transmission is of course, auto.
The car is reported to be doing around 43 miles per gallon, which is
good compared to a similar gasoline only car.
The Insight can't take off from a standing start on electric power
alone, but it can run solely on its battery cruising around 40 km/h.
Unfortunately, the Insight is not yet available in Sri Lanka and in many
other countries, but that might change if Honda succeeds in its hybrid
quest. |
