The Accord Coupe Concept uses a two-motor hybrid system cycling automatically through three modes. The hybrid drive system uses a 2.4-liter direct injection engine, 6 kWh lithium-ion battery and 120kW electric motor to boost range. Honda cites an all-electric mode where the Accord Coupe Concept travels up to 15 miles at speeds up to 62 miles per hour. Drivers can recharge their batteries in less than for hours with 120-volt outlets and 90 minutes with 240-volt outlets. The gasoline-electric mode balances engine and battery power to meet the needs of commuters. The Accord Coupe Concept and the 2013 Accord Plug-in Hybrid feature a direct-drive mode that boosts the RPMs significantly.

Safety features like the Lane Departure Warning and Forward Crash Warning ease the minds of potential Accord Coupe owners. These components are located within the windshield base to anticipate the causes of common traffic accidents. The LaneWatch dashboard display uses a camera within the passenger mirror to keep drivers informed of potential obstacles. Standard safety features on the Accord Coupe and Accord Plug-in Hybrid include a rearview camera as well as a broader rearview mirror.

Honda’s presentation at the 2012 NAIAS skewed toward shoring support from loyal consumers rather than wowing the automotive press. The Accord Coupe Concept doesn’t advance the Accord styling much from the 2008 remodel. Representatives from Honda focused attention on core concerns of families and couples interested in high safety standards as well as improved fuel economy. Honda allowed competitors to dazzle audiences with futuristic concepts and prototypes, which could have been the right strategy given current economic conditions. The Accord Coupe as well as the 2013 Accord Plug-in Hybrid hit the spot for consumers more interested than substance than flash.

This organization emerged from the work of the CHAdeMO Association dating back to July 2010. Members of CHAdeMO were asked to determine how EV infrastructure investment could be spurred in the midst of difficult economic circumstances. A report published earlier this spring indicated that EV infrastructure had limped along due to equipment costs and lack of coordination. CHAdeMO found that Japan only features about 800 EV quick chargers as of October 2011, a lackluster effort given the nation’s role as a technological frontier. The seeds were planted for the Charging Network Development Organization following this grim assessment.

Businesses, government agencies and individuals in Japan interested in quick chargers will be able to acquire memberships into the organization. The nine founding members will use annual membership fees to fund educational efforts that encourage public awareness of EV chargers. These funds will also be used to develop network maps and wireless communications that allow members to find the nearest chargers. Membership fees from drivers will help reduce the upfront costs of installing and maintaining quick-charge units. The Charging Network Development Organization wants to streamline the installation, maintenance and utility billing processes alongside its membership services.

The Charging Network Development Organization is driven largely by investments from Japan’s major automakers. Toyota, Honda and Mitsubishi currently hold 54.6% of equity interest in the organization. The Chubu Electric Power Co. possesses an 18.2% stake comparable to the automakers in recognition of the importance of utilities in EV infrastructure development. The Development Bank of Japan holds a 9.1% equity interest while the remaining four partners possess a 4.5% interest per company. This substantial investment in Japan’s quick-charge infrastructure is required to kick the nation’s focus on advanced transportation technology into high gear. A substantial and easy-to-use EV charging network in Japan could act as an example for automakers, utilities and governments around the world.

The Fit EV drive system features a 92kW electric motor powered by a 20kWh lithium-ion battery. Honda adapted the motor used in the FCX Clarity, providing a proven power source for this all-electric model. Drivers choose between the Econ, Normal and Sport models depending on their commuting needs. The Econ mode provides a 17% increase in vehicle range compared to the Normal mode. The 2013 Fit EV achieves a range of 123 miles per charge. Owners can recharge their batteries in less than three hours using the vehicle’s 6.6 kW charging unit.

Performance metrics for the 2013 Fit EV meet the needs of commuters in Honda’s target markets. Honda incorporated efficient auxiliary systems and remote monitoring to improve the driving experience. The per-charge range has been increased from early prototypes using regenerative braking and energy-efficient air conditioning. The Fit EV application developed by Honda allows laptop, smart phone and remote control users to monitor vehicle temperature and charge levels. A remote control included with purchase allows the driver to monitor the vehicle at distances up to 100 feet. Honda designed the dashboard display to offer recommendations for higher fuel efficiency and change color based on driving mode.

The 2013 Honda Fit EV will undergo test runs in California through the City of Torrance, Google Inc. and Stanford University. The Honda EV Demonstration Project allows the automaker to collect information on vehicle performance, driver interface and durability prior to mass production. Honda has set the bar low in terms of leasing quotas for the 2013 Fit EV. Representatives from the automaker stated that only 1,100 units will be produced over the next three years. Dampened expectations for the 2013 Fit EV should not obscure Honda’s strategy to compete with Nissan. Honda selected California, Oregon and the Northeast to challenge Nissan where the LEAF was released last year.

A trio of all-electric concept cars shows Honda’s ability to cater to conventional tastes while jumping into green technology. The AC-X is a dual-mode hybrid that allows the driver to choose between more powerful conventional driving and eco-friendly combination driving. The Micro Commuter Concept pictured above is an all-electric city car with a rear compartment that can store Honda’s two-wheel Motor Compo. Honda also plans to display a small, all-electric sports car that balances an enjoyable ride with sufficient range for short commutes.

Honda has developed three personal mobility vehicles that should draw attention at the show. The Motor Compo is Honda’s answer to the Segway and works with the Micro Commuter for remote charging. This two-wheel vehicle connects to a recharging unit on the Micro Commuter that draws from a lithium-ion battery pack. The E-Canopy by Honda is a three-wheeled scooter with a small compartment ideal for parcel companies and corporations with large campuses. The RC-E is an all-electric bike that features a small body and a powerful electric motor. Honda is also bringing along the Townwalker, a portable urban mobility vehicle that can be folded and unfolded for easy storage.

The Smart Mobility City 2011 collaboration shows Honda’s commitment to a holistic approach to zero-emissions transportation. Honda worked with JAMA to develop alternative energy technology including solar paneling and hybrid power generation for urban buildings. The inclusion of Honda vehicles and refueling systems provides a glimpse into the future for Japanese consumers. This futuristic display certainly acts as a clever bit of branding by Honda though mobility projects should benefit consumers more than automakers in the future. The development of brand-agnostic fuel sources and charging standards still helps Honda in the short run given the company’s heavy investment in green vehicles. Consumers from Tokyo to London will see automakers big and small compete with Honda if urban mobility infrastructure is developed, thus increasing selection and decreasing costs.

Japanese consumers can access a trio of new hybrid vehicles from Honda starting November 11th. The automaker announced that the Freed Hybrid, the newest version of the Insight and the Insight Exclusive hit local dealerships in the next few days. Honda already released the Freed Hybrid in limited quantities to a test group of dealerships on October 28th.  The reintroduction of the Insight alongside the premium Exclusive shows Honda’s efforts to win greater market share among sedan owners. The Honda Freed Hybrid pushes the automaker into the lead within the as-yet-uncompetitive hybrid minivan market.

The Honda Insight has been upgraded from the plucky hybrid that premiered in the 2000 model year. This next-generation Insight eliminates road noise through advanced insulation and steadies the driving experience with the Vehicle Stability Assist system. Drivers achieve estimated fuel economy of 64 miles per gallon in the Insight. This figure drastically outpaces the combined fuel mileage of 41 MPG for the 2011 Honda Insight. The Honda Insight will be priced from $24,221 with a sales target of 1,500 units per month.

Honda also developed the Insight Exclusive to appeal to consumers interested in mixing high fuel economy with cutting-edge features. The Exclusive achieves 54 MPG combined using a 1.5-liter i-VTEC gas engine already incorporated into the CR-Z Hybrid. Exterior features like a shark fin antenna and LED-imbedded grill show that Honda wants to appeal to fans of style and substance. The automaker also offers the InterNavi system, which connects drivers to maps, digital content and vehicle performance metrics through a high-definition monitor. The Insight Exclusive starts from $26,103 and shares a monthly sales goal of 1,500 units with the 2012 Insight.

The Honda Freed Hybrid minivan allows families to carry their little ones and cargo while achieving a fuel economy rating of 50.8 MPG. Drivers can opt for the ECON and Eco Assist modes when they want to reduce fuel consumption during long trips. The Freed Hybrid joins traditional Freed and Freed Spike models on Japanese roads. Honda also plans a November 25th release for a Freed Hybrid with lift-up seats and wheelchair loaders for special needs passengers. The Freed Hybrid starts from $26,969 and Honda plans a major rollout with a monthly sales goal of 10,000 units. This diversification should help Honda in the Japanese market given that a third of the automaker’s vehicles in Japan are hybrids.

The 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas is hitting American streets starting October 18th. This all-natural gas sedan based on the Civic GX offers a competitive price for an alt-fuel vehicle while achieving fuel economy improvements of 10.7% over the standard Civic. Honda plans delivery of these low-emissions vehicles to 200 dealerships across 35 states including test markets in California, New York, Oklahoma and Utah. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Civic Natural Gas is $26,155.

The Civic Natural Gas uses a 1.8-liter engine already tested in the standard Civic drawing from a 3,600-psi natural gas tank. Honda installed a five-speed automatic transmission in this model to increase fuel efficiency. The estimated fuel economy rating for the Civic Natural Gas is 31 miles per gallon (MPG) total with a city rating of 38 MPG. Drivers achieve higher fuel mileage with the ECO Assist system, an interactive feature that alters energy consumption with the push of a button.

Honda incorporated safety and connectivity features that keep the Civic Natural Gas competitive with other sedans. The automaker’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering Architecture focuses on increasing body strength to reduce injuries during front-end collisions. Honda also includes the Vehicle Stability Assist system, which combines a multi-channel brake system and electronic steering to maintain vehicle control. Drivers interested in monitoring fuel consumption, find directions and access wireless devices use the vehicle’s Multi-Information Display. An optional feature is the Satellite Linked Navigation System that connects drivers to information about public compressed natural gas (CNG) stations.

The primary benefit of CNG-powered vehicles to the consumer is a 30% savings in fuel costs. Honda notes that the Civic Natural Gas reduces carbon emissions by 25% through the use of CNG. States like California have certified this model for carpool lane access to incentivize alt-fuel vehicle purchases. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) rates the Civic Natural Gas as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) due to Honda’s guarantee of high performance over 150,000 miles. The federal government recognizes the vehicle’s green credentials with the EPA certifying the Civic Natural Gas as the cleanest vehicle for sale in the United States. This portfolio of state and federal support strengthens Honda’s position as a leading producer of fuel-efficient vehicles.

Pike Research recently released a report reviewing the top producers of fuel-cell vehicles throughout the world. The “Pike Pulse Report: Light-Duty Fuel Cell Vehicles” analyzes current research and vehicle development by ten manufacturers of fuel-cell models. Analysts with Pike Research determined that Daimler was the most advanced producer of fuel-cell vehicles with Honda, Toyota, Hyundai-Kia and General Motors falling within the top five. This report followed a similar format to a Pike Pulse Report published this summer ranking manufacturers of EV chargers.

This report assessed fuel-cell vehicle manufacturers on 12 criteria ranging from research and development to pricing. Automakers were evaluated on their business acumen including market share, market strategy and public/private partnerships. Pike Research also reviewed each automaker’s product portfolio and innovation strategy to determine the future of fuel-cell vehicles. Additional criteria dealt with the demand side of the market including vehicle pricing and brand durability. Each automaker was given a total score on a scale of 100 points.

Daimler’s ascendancy to the top of the fuel-cell market comes from a clearly defined path toward greener vehicles. The automaker achieved a total score of 69.9 based on strength in market strategy, innovation and partnerships. Pike Research pointed out government partnerships as well as a recently announced collaboration with Linde to develop fuel-cell infrastructure as benefits to Daimler. This high ranking comes with a caveat, however, as analysts note that adjustments to vehicle production timetables could decrease Daimler’s standing.

Honda was the runner-up (66.7) in Pike’s fuel-cell analysis because of its enduring investment in the technology. The Japanese automaker has spent the past decade developing a fuel-cell drive system as well as the Clarity FCV. Pike Research also rewarded Honda with higher scores because of its efforts to develop infrastructure and prepare consumers for fuel-cell cars. The lingering issue for Honda is that a decade of research has yet to yield a mass commercialization of the Clarity FCV.

The above graphic shows that Pike Research seems confident about the future of fuel-cell vehicles. No automaker was able to break into the Leaders category in the upper right corner. Pike Research also kept automakers out of the Followers category in the lower left corner. The top five automakers were dotted within the Contenders section of the graphic with Daimler closest to becoming a Leader. “Pike Pulse Report” noted that automakers like Riversimple, BMW and SAIC Motor Corp. were still Challengers due to their limited appeal and sluggish development. Words of caution throughout the report should not quell optimism that Daimler, Honda and other fuel-cell automakers leap ahead in the next generation.

The Honda Fit has sold more than 3.5 million units in Asia, North America and Europe since premiering in 2001. This compact car qualified for a fuel efficiency tax credit in the United States starting in 2007 while keeping MSRP well below hybrids. Honda also earned kudos from Consumer Reports and Car and Driver in recent years due to the Fit’s affordability, safety and fuel economy. The Honda Fit is evolving further within the Japanese market with the Fit Shuttle Hybrid now on sale in Japan.

Honda developed the Fit Shuttle Hybrid with Eco Assist, an onboard computer system that promotes fuel-efficient driving techniques. The Shuttle Hybrid team cut down on engine friction and the vehicle’s profile to ensure higher fuel efficiency. This hybrid also shuts down the fuel pump and ignition when the electric motor starts to cut down on gas consumption. These engineering feats complement a 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine as well as Integrated Motor Assist (IMA). Honda claims that the Shuttle Hybrid achieves a fuel economy rating of 59 miles per gallon, which is comparable to the Fit Hybrid even with a larger body and cargo area.

The release of the Fit Shuttle Hybrid coincides with initial sales of the traditional Honda Fit Shuttle. This fuel-efficient minivan consumes 44 miles per gallon using a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine. Honda notes that the standard Fit Shuttle is estimated to achieve the same fuel economy as the Fit compact car. The Fit Shuttle is priced from $19,900 while the Shuttle Hybrid is priced from $22,400. These rates compare favorably to the $15,100 retail price in the United States for the 2011 Honda Fit. Representatives from Honda cited a sales goal of 4,000 combined units per month by January 2012.

Honda’s eco-friendly bona fides are bolstered by the Fit Shuttle and Fit Shuttle Hybrid. The Fit Shuttle’s body panels and interior elements are built almost entirely from recycled materials. This commitment to recycled parts means that 90% of the body comes from reconfigured components. The Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism certified both models as compliant with 2010 fuel economy standards as well as 75% emissions reductions compared to 2005. The Japanese market represents the laboratory where the Fit Shuttle Hybrid will be tested prior to a global release.

The electric scooter could be an important tool for automakers in promoting zero-emissions vehicles throughout the world. Urban dwellers in Western Europe, Asia and Latin America often use scooters because of their size, cost and fuel economy. This assessment of the scooter market encouraged Honda to initiate a year-long trial of the EV-neo scooter in Barcelona. The EV-neo scooter trial begins next month with the help of the Barcelona City Council, Montesa Honda and RACC. The Barcelona City Council will receive 18 EV-neo units from Honda with Montesa Honda and RACC providing maintenance and research support over the next year.

Honda’s EV-neo provides sufficient power, speed and performance to meet the needs of city drivers. This all-electric scooter is powered by a 2.8kW Honda electric motor as well as a 0.9kWh lithium-ion battery by Toshiba. The automaker claims that the EV-neo can reach a top speed of 19 miles per hour on flat ground. EV-neo users would be able to travel up to 21 miles per charge. The scooter’s quick-charge unit ensures that the battery is recharged fully within 30 minutes using a 200-volt outlet. Honda includes a standard charger compatible with all outlets that recharges the battery fully in less than four hours.

Barcelona offers an ideal backdrop for Honda to test the EV-neo for the European market. The city currently offers incentives for battery-electric vehicles including free EV parking and significant cuts to vehicle licensing fees. Vehicle registration figures indicate that 30% of registered vehicles in Barcelona are classified as motorcycles. The $5,627 price tag for a leased EV-neo might be a bit steep for many but this price should decline with higher production volumes. This built-in market for scooters along with modest incentives for EVs could put Honda ahead of European brands in the search for early adopters. The key for the Barcelona City Council and Honda is to create educational components that aggressively promote the EV-neo.

The Honda EV-neo will not be new to the road when the Barcelona trial starts next month. Honda began leasing the scooter in Japan this April with end-of-year estimates at 1,000 units leased. The Honda Electric Vehicle Testing Program currently running in Kumamoto and Saitama Prefectures uses EV-neo among other all-electric vehicles. Residents and out-of-towners in Kumamoto can rent an EV-neo through local dealers while providing journals of their experiences. Honda has worked with parcel companies in Saitama to deliver small packages using the EV-neo. The strategy for Honda is to leverage demand for scooters in Europe and Japan while slowly unveiling a zero-emission model. This slow but steady approach could displace thousands of standard scooters even as city dwellers looking to replace their gas-guzzling cars and trucks.

The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) completed a three-year search for the city’s Taxi of Tomorrow last week. This search resulted in the selection of the Nissan NV200 as the primary taxi for 33 taxi companies operating in New York City. Officials with TLC and the Mayor’s Office searched for a vehicle that could meet the needs of the average passenger while meeting budgetary limits. Nissan competed with Ford, Karsan and dozens of other automakers to provide taxis for one of the world’s largest vehicle fleets.

Nissan plans delivery of the standard NV200 to taxi companies in New York City by fall 2013. This taxi van achieves a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon while providing ample passenger space and a charging station for mobile devices. The LTC is planning a five-year phase out of existing city cabs as additional NV200s are delivered. The City of New York is not resting its laurels with the gas-powered NV200 over the next decade. Nissan was selected in part because the NV200 could be converted to all-electric drive by 2017. City officials are planning fleet tests for six Nissan LEAF EVs starting next year to determine EV infrastructure needed for all-electrics like the NV200.

Negotiations between Nissan, the LTC and the City of New York have revealed efforts to ease the transition for all parties. Nissan is working with dealers throughout the region to create facilities and train mechanics to provide service on the NV200. The LTC and Nissan are consulting with taxi operators and their drivers in preparation of the specially designed NV200. Production of the standard and all-electric NV200s is slated at the Nissan plant in Cuernavaca, Mexico. The retail price for the Nissan NV200 is $29,000 though volume purchasing should bring down the per-vehicle cost to the LTC.

The Taxi of Tomorrow initiative by LTC and the City of New York is good news though not indicative of a sea change among American cities. New York City has built-in demand for greener transportation, high fuel costs and political will to reduce emissions. This model should be replicated by cities around the United States though upfront costs and political shortsightedness halt broader adoption of eco-friendly vehicles. The biggest winner in this agreement is Nissan, which will use New York City’s streets as an advertisement to corporate fleets and consumers.