HONDA OFFICIAL CR-V AND FIT-EV CONCEPT PRESS KIT FLASH DRIVE 2012-2013 USA EDITION
THIS IS THE LA AUTOSHOW PRESS-KIT RELEASED BY HONDA TO PRESS MEDIA JOURNALISTS AND IT TAKE THE FORM OF A 1Gb FLASH DRIVE AND CONTAINS TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHIC INFORMATION ON THE NEW 2012 CR-V AND THE 2013 ELECTRIC VEHICLE NAMED THE FIT.
All-New, Completely Redesigned 2012 Honda CR-V Debuts at LA Auto Show
Popular SUV introduces innovative features for music and SMS texting, new Real Time AWD system debuts, and FWD model achieves 31 mpg highway EPA rating
The all-new, the fourth-generation Honda CR-V debuted today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The 2012 CR-V introduces an upscale styling direction, greater fuel efficiency, and added features and functionality. The CR-V will go on-sale at Honda dealerships nationwide on December 15th.
With the previous-generation CR-V recognized as a “Top Recommended Vehicle” and having the “Best Retained Value SUV under $25,000” by Edmunds.com, and named top compact crossover SUV in dependability by J.D. Power and Associates, the all-new 2012 model introduces the latest evolution of Honda’s successful CR-V formula. Compact on the outside and roomy inside, the CR-V represents an ideal balance for size and capability in the entry SUV segment. The all-new five-passenger CR-V offers improved car-like interior comfort, a smoother and quieter ride, and even more innovative features than the previous model.
Powerful and Efficient 4-Cylinder Engine
Leading the changes are a more efficient engine design with improved horsepower and torque, along with an all-new Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control System™. All CR-Vs are powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft. of torque paired with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission. EPA-estimated fuel economy is rated at 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined (FWD) (an increase of +2/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V), and a compact SUV-class leading 22/30/25 mpg city/highway/combined (AWD) (an increase of +1/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V). Eco Assist, a new feature on the CR-V for 2012, indicates to the driver when the vehicle is being operated in an efficient style via “green” visual cues surrounding the speedometer, and a selectable ECON Mode alters operating characteristics of the vehicle to support an efficient driving style.
New Standard Features
New for 2012 standard features include an Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat and a range of standard technology features. New high-tech features on all models include a Bluetooth HandsFreeLink® phone interface (previously an available feature), a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) and a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines. As a first for Honda, every 2012 CR-V includes an SMS text messaging function, which can read received texts from compatible cell phones aloud over the audio system. Another first is the introduction of a Pandora® Internet Radio interface, compatible with the Apple® iPhone®, which works with the vehicle’s audio controls and i-MID.
Model Range
The CR-V lineup starts with the CR-V LX model, now with more standard equipment for 2012. The CR-V LX is equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, i-MID, remote entry, a 160-watt, a 4-speaker audio system, Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS). The CR-V EX adds an upgraded six-speaker audio system, power moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and more. The CR-V EX-L builds on the rich features of the CR-V EX and adds a leather-trimmed interior, 10-way power driver’s seat, automatic dual-zone climate control, 328-watt 7-speaker audio system with XM Radio and much more. Available features for the CR-V EX-L include the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and FM Traffic, or a DVD Rear Entertainment System (not available with Navigation). Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™ is an available feature on each model.
Honda Fit EV Makes World Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show
Battery electric commuter vehicle launching summer 2012
Honda today unveiled the all-new 2013 Fit EV at the Los Angeles Auto Show, announcing plans to begin leasing the 123 city-mile per charge (76 mile range combined adjusted city/highway) battery electric commuter vehicle to its U.S. customers in the summer of 2012. The Fit EV is based on the popular Fit hatchback and is a part of the company’s diverse portfolio of alternative fuel vehicles that includes gasoline-electric hybrid, plug-in hybrid, fuel cell-electric and natural gas-powered models.
American Honda will begin leasing the Fit EV to customers in select California and Oregon markets next summer, and will expand to six East Coast markets in early 2013. The Fit EV’s Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $36,625 with an estimated lease priced at $399 a month. Honda will monitor market acceptance, but expects volume at this early stage of production to be approximately 1,100 Fit EV’s over the next three years.
“The Fit EV is the next critical step in Honda’s portfolio approach to alternative fueled vehicles,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “There is no other automaker on the planet whose spirit is more deeply invested in the effort to realize a cleaner, more energy-efficient and ultimately more sustainable transportation future than Honda.”
Fit EV Performance
The Fit EV is designed to meet the needs of an average urban commuter, offering an estimated driving range of 123-miles on a single charge using the US EPA city cycle test methods (Honda anticipates a combined city/highway EV range of 76 miles on the new Fuel Economy labels). The Fit EV will be powered by a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 92 kilowatt coaxial electric motor. The high density electric motor, derived from the motor used in the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds.
Driving range of the Fit EV can be maximized by using several innovative features, including a 3- mode electric drive system, adapted from the CR-Z Sport Hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximize efficiency or improve acceleration. While in Econ mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17-percent compared to driving in Normal mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, adding to the Fit EV’s fun to drive nature.
In addition to the 3-mode driving system, the Fit EV includes interactive coaching features designed to assist the driver in maximizing battery performance and driving range. The power meter alerts the driver to optimal driving conditions. Additional energy- saving features includes a highly efficient electric air conditioning system and new regenerative braking system.
The 6.6 kW, onboard 32 amp charger allows for convenient recharging of the Fit EV. With a 240-volt charger, the Fit EV can fully recharge from empty in as little as three hours. At launch timing, Honda will have a preferred Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) charging supplier.