Honda to Launch Next Generation Advanced Powertrain Vehicles by 2018, Honda FCV Concept Makes North American Debut | Maita Honda

• New battery-electric vehicle and new plug-in hybrid model by 2018 and further application of two- and three-motor hybrid systems, to join Honda's U.S. lineup enabling Honda to continue to be a strong competitor in the alternative-fuels vehicle market
• Together, these vehicles will offer significant volume enabling Honda to bring ultra-low carbon transportation to consumers in the U.S.
• Honda FCV Concept demonstrates the styling evolution of the next-generation Honda fuel-cell vehicle, launching in 2016
• New VTEC® Turbo engines to be built in Ohio, will launch in 2015

The Honda FCV Concept makes its North American debut at the 2015 North American International Auto Show with U.S. availability of the production vehicle in 2016. In an effort to ensure Honda's environmental vehicles remain strong competitors and provide a new sales-volume pillar, the company will offer several next-generation, advanced powertrain vehicles, including a new battery-electric model and plug-in hybrid model by 2018. Additionally, the company plans further application of its two- and three-motor hybrid systems in the years to come. Together, these vehicles will offer significant volume enabling Honda to bring ultra-low carbon transportation to consumers in the U.S. Honda also announced plans to introduce new VTEC® Turbo engines to be built in Ohio and debut later in 2015.

 Honda FCV Concept
The Honda FCV Concept showcases the styling evolution of Honda's next fuel-cell vehicle, anticipated to launch in the U.S. following its March 2016 introduction in Japan. The new Honda fuel-cell car will feature a spacious cabin with seating for five-passengers, a driving range estimated to be in excess of 300 miles, and an anticipated refueling time of approximately 3 minutes at a pressure of 70 MPa. Its fuel cell stack, which fits entirely within under the hood, is 33 percent smaller with a 60 percent increase in power density compared to the outgoing Honda FCX Clarity.

As the next progression in Honda's dynamic FCV styling, the Honda FCV Concept features a low, wide aerodynamic body with clean character lines. The interior strives to achieve harmony between man and machine by taking advantage of new powertrain packaging efficiencies delivering even greater passenger space than its predecessor, the 4-passenger Honda FCX Clarity fuel-cell vehicle. The Honda FCV Concept made its world debut in Japan on Nov. 17, 2014, followed by an announcement at the Los Angeles Auto Show that Honda will provide FirstElement Fuel with $13.8 million in financial assistance to build additional hydrogen refueling stations throughout the state of California in an effort to support the wider introduction of fuel-cell vehicles.

Next-Generation Advanced Powertrain VehicleIn addition to the all-new fuel-cell vehicle, by 2018 Honda will introduce several next-generation advanced powertrain vehicles that will leverage new Honda Earth Dreams™ Technology powertrains. These next-generation vehicles will build on Honda's longstanding portfolio approach to advancing ultra-low carbon technologies for mobility and will include:

• An all-new Honda plug-in hybrid model (PHEV);
• An all-new Honda battery-electric vehicle (BEV); and
• Further application of our two- and three-motor hybrid systems to contribute to significant sales volume growth for Honda's U.S. hybrid vehicle lineup.

New VTEC® Turbo Engines
Before the end of the year, Honda will begin to introduce our new 4-cylinder VTEC® Turbo engines – an extension of its Earth Dreams™ Technology powertrain lineup – that will deliver fun-to-drive performance while supporting fuel efficiency at a very high level. Production of the new VTEC® Turbo engines will begin later this year at Honda's Anna, Ohio, engine plant, the largest automobile engine plant in Honda's global production network¹. Honda is investing $340 million at the Anna Engine Plant to produce the VTEC® Turbo 4-cylinder engines using domestic and globally sourced parts, including the addition of a third assembly line for production of 4-cylinder engines and additional manufacturing innovations.

Honda Environmental Leadership
Based on its vision of "Blue Skies for our Children," Honda is taking a portfolio approach to reducing the environmental impact of its products, advancing fuel efficiency, low emissions and fun-to-drive performance with new powertrain technologies from its Earth Dreams Technology™ lineup, which includes more fuel-efficient engines and transmissions and advanced electromotive technologies. Honda's alternative-fuel vehicle lineup includes the Fit EV, Civic Hybrid, Civic Natural Gas, the CR-Z sport hybrid coupe and the Accord Hybrid.

2015 Honda Accord Hybrid Review | Maita Honda

The 2015 Honda Accord Hybrid ranks 2 out of 19 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Honda Accord Hybrid, as well as reliability and safety data.

The 2015 Honda Accord Hybrid is ranked:

• ^#2in Affordable Midsize Cars
• ^#1in Hybrid Cars

The 2015 Honda Accord Hybrid wows critics with its responsive powertrain, exceptional fuel economy and spacious, high-quality interior.

Reviewers say the 2015 Accord Hybrid is quick for a hybrid midsize car, and that its four-cylinder engine and electric motor produce ample power from a stop. The Accord Hybrid’s automatic transmission also earns praise for making the most of the available power. According to the EPA, the Honda Accord Hybrid gets 50/45 mpg city/highway, which is excellent for a hybrid car. Test drivers report that the Accord Hybrid has a comfortable ride, and some write that it handles with more poise than you’d expect from an affordable midsize car. Many critics say that the Accord Hybrid’s steering is accurate and well-weighted, though others write that it could provide a bit more road feel.

Auto writers agree that the 2015 Honda Accord Hybrid has a roomy and attractive cabin that’s solidly constructed with premium materials. Most appreciate the Accord Hybrid’s excellent outward visibility and remarkably spacious back seat, but some remark that the driver’s seat could be a bit more comfortable. The Accord Hybrid offers a competitive amount of trunk space for the class, but test drivers point out that a folding rear seat is not available, which limits your ability to expand the Accord Hybrid’s cargo space for bulkier items. Critics are pleased with the Accord Hybrid’s standard infotainment display, saying it provides useful details about audio and phone selections. However, some complain that the touch screen that comes standard on higher trims replaces more straightforward conventional buttons. The 2015 Accord Hybrid’s standard features include Bluetooth, a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, a USB input, an 8-inch infotainment screen, Pandora Internet radio compatibility, hands-free text messaging and a passenger side blind spot camera. Available features include a sunroof, satellite radio, a 6-inch touch-screen display with HondaLink smartphone app integration, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, navigation and adaptive cruise control.

• "With the 2015 Honda Accord Hybrid, you give up virtually nothing in return for its outstanding fuel economy rating of 47 mpg. The Accord Hybrid doesn't even cost that much more than the gasoline-only model." -- Edmunds 
• "A Honda Accord Hybrid makes so much sense, you might be surprised to learn that there isn't already one on the market." -- Jean Knows Cars (2014)
• "Honda, which had fallen behind other carmakers with its hybrid models, seems to have put the right ingredients together this time, creating a high-tech sedan that comes loaded with creature comforts, safety features and an impressive drivetrain." -- Motor Trend (2014)

What to look for in a Car for your Teen Driver | Maita Honda

If you ask any teenager what they are looking forward to doing the most as they get older, at the top of most lists is probably being able to drive. After all, being licensed to drive gives teens a great sense of freedom – they can now come and go as they please; they are no longer dependent on mom and dad to get them where they need to go.

However, the time when teens begin to drive can potentially be the most deadly. Every dayseven teens ages 16 to 19 die from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle crash. And the crash rate is 3.7 times higher for 16 year old drivers compared to drivers all of all ages, and 2.7 higher for drivers aged 16 to 19.

For parents that are conducting a used cars search for appropriate vehicle options for their teen drivers, how can they help them stay as safe as possible? Here’s a look at five in-car options to look for during their used cars search.

Side Airbags

Although everybody knows about airbags as a safety component in vehicles, some may not realize the importance of side airbags. A study conducted in 2006 conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found side airbags that protected driver’s heads helped reduce deaths in cars that were hit on the driver side by about 37 percent.

Electronic Stability Control

ESC works through speed sensors that are placed on all wheels and the steering wheel to help drivers when on roads that are slippery or very curved.

If the ESC system notices the vehicle is about to go in an opposite direction from where the steering wheel is pointed, is will break the necessary wheels to help keep the car under control. ESC can be found vehicles from 2012, and even earlier.

Crash Avoidance Technology

Over the past few years, vehicle manufacturers have unveiled a crop of new applications to help drivers avoid car accidents. These crash avoidance technologies work by providing the driver with warnings, or in some instances even automatically putting on the brakes. Examples of these technologies to look for in a used cars search include blind spot detection, adaptive headlights, lane departure warning, and front crash prevention.

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

An ABS is another safeguard against slippery roads, as well as inexperienced young drives that may find themselves “panic braking” in certain situations. The ABS helps ensure the brakes on a car do not lock up, which could cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle. ABS on the rear wheels allows the vehicle to keep moving in a straight line, while ABS on all wheels allows the driver to maintain steering capabilities.

Seat Belt Reminder System

Although the “ding, ding, ding” that reminds you to buckle up every time you’re in the car can be rather annoying, studies show they do save lives. For instance, a study published in 2008 found 97.5 percent of passengers put on a seat belt when in a vehicle with a reminder system, while only about 86 percent did in cars without a reminder. And teens need all the reminders they can — a 2002 study found that only 69 percent of teens ages 16 to 24 wear their seat belts, and more than two-thirds of teens killed in car crashes were not wearing seat belts.

Owning a Used Car: How Much Can You Expect to Pay Each Month? | Maita Honda

If you are tempted to cut corners on the purchase of your next used vehicle to save money, you may want to reconsider. Even though you can often find deals to save money up front, it usually comes back to bite you.

Simply put, getting a good deal on a used car spans beyond the purchase price. You also must consider the little things that accompany the monthly payment such as insurance, gas, maintenance and repairs. This may seem like a lot to afford, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to afford the used car of your dreams.

The costs of owning your ride is decreasing as time goes on. On average, the monthly operating and ownership costs associated with owning a sedan is $739.67 (or $8,876 per year), according to a recent report released by AAA. Operating costs include gas, maintenance and tires whereas ownership costs include full-coverage insurance, license, registration, taxes, depreciation and finance charges.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of their findings by vehicle type, based on a 15,000 annual mileage:

If you are blown away by these figures, don’t start worrying yet. Here are some things to consider when shopping that can help you save later on down the line:

Gas

Wouldn’t it be grand if all cars could run off of oxygen? Unfortunately, cars need gas, and gas is expensive. Even hybrids require gas to function. Bummer.

So, when you’re shopping, you’ll need to pay attention to the fuel economy ratings, both on the highway and in the city. Put this expense into your car budget, and see how often you can afford to fill your tank. Even though you can’t control gas prices, you can control how much you spend to fill up your tank each week.

Maintenance

Extended warranties are great, but they typically only cover major repairs. That means you’re on your own with the day-to-day maintenance. It’s probably not a good idea to pick out the shiniest model on the lot without first taking a moment to figure out the anticipated maintenance costs. 

Generally speaking, the older the model and the higher the mileage, the more costly the maintenance. You also might want to get the maintenance records to see if the vehicle was properly cared for by its prior owner.

Tires

Don’t forget to take a peek at the tires. If they are extremely worn, they will need to be replaced, which can set you back hundreds of dollars out the gate.

Insurance

Besides the cost of the monthly payment, car insurance is a top expense for your car. Unfortunately, it’s illegal not to carry coverage if you live in any state except for New Hampshire, so insurance is an expense you can’t avoid. But, the year, make and model of your car can affect the cost of your insurance. 

Depreciation

Unless you seriously intend to drive the vehicle until the wheels fall off, you’ll want to purchase something that holds value. Otherwise, be prepared to fork over the difference between the sales price and what you owe when you want to sell or trade it in for a new set of wheels. Don’t let bargains on the purchase price fool you. Before putting any money down, look at the current asking price compared to older models to gain some insight on depreciation. And, steer clear of rebuilt or salvaged vehicles if you intend to earn any equity in your vehicle.

Bottom line, there is more to owning a car than just the car payments. You need to set a budget that includes all of the costs so you can see what you can reasonably afford.