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Hondas Electrifying 2024 Roadmap Unveiling 3 Zero-Emission Marvels to Supercharge Sales
ByPawaniOn January 18, 2024, Honda’s American subsidiary made a significant announcement about the company’s four-wheel vehicle business in the United States for the fiscal year. Among the revelations was the upcoming release of the “super amazing CR-V FCEV,” a novel fuel-powered sporty SUV set to hit the US market later in 2024.
Mamadou Diallo, Senior Vice President of Sales for Honda in the United States, shared insights into the company’s performance, stating, “In 2023, sales for both the Honda and Acura brands rebounded, concluding the year with a remarkable 30% increase. Looking ahead to 2024, we are focusing on capital investment in hybrid vehicles and other products, including the launch of our first mass-produced battery electric vehicle (BEV).
As part of Honda’s strategic approach, the company aims to boost sales of zero-emission vehicles, such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs). Diallo emphasized their commitment to this goal and revealed plans to introduce the CR-V FCEV, a new addition to the Honda lineup. The CR-V, a popular midsize crossover SUV, has been a global success since its inception in 1995, and the latest 6th generation model, introduced in 2022, has further expanded its appeal.
The CR-V FCEV, based on the current 6th generation model, stands out as the first mass-produced vehicle in North America to seamlessly integrate plug-in functionality and FCEV technology. Honda aims to capitalize on the success of its hybrid models, including the “e:HEV” variant, which became the best-selling hybrid vehicle in the United States with annual sales reaching 197,317 units by 2023.
In addition to the CR-V FCEV, Honda’s US subsidiary plans to launch Acura’s electric SUV, the “ZDX,” in early 2024. Furthermore, the company is gearing up for the release of the new BEV, “Prologue,” within the next few months, signaling Honda’s commitment to a diverse and innovative electric vehicle lineup.
Mamadou Diallo outlined the company’s vision for zero-emission vehicles, stating, “In 2024, we will begin selling three zero-emission vehicles, contributing to our goal of achieving 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2040 and ultimately realizing carbon neutrality by 2050. These initiatives mark our dedication to sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.” Honda’s upcoming releases showcase their commitment to innovation and align with global efforts to address climate change through the adoption of electric and fuel cell technologies.
Sporty New Toyota Prius Earns High Praise from Many
By far the best!” Many praise for the sporty new Toyota Prius! Conventional model was not so good!Do you like the new or old Prius? The new Toyota Prius made its world premiere on November 16, 2022.The new Prius, now in its fifth generation, has evolved into a sleek silhouette. While inheriting the mono-form silhouette that has continued from the past, it will be renewed with a wider and lower stance, 19-inch large-diameter tires, and a more stylish design.
The new Prius is super cool! Center meter abolished & banana-like shift adopted! The new Toyota “Prius” (5th generation) is by far the coolest looking car ever!The previous Prius, especially the 4th generation that debuted in 2015, was controversial for its innovative design, which was also called the “Kabuki face” for its design that looked like tears streaming from the headlights.It was revised to a universal design with a minor change in 2018, but in a departure from the overly individualistic Prius, the new Prius is reborn with the advanced looks of a sports car.
We conducted a survey on the new and old Prius to find out what SNS users thought of the new Prius.The question asked, “Which do you prefer, the new Prius (5th generation) or the previous Prius (4th generation)?” 81.8% of respondents answered “new Prius”, far exceeding the 18.2% who answered “conventional Prius”.The opinions of those who prefer the new Prius include: “The new Prius has by far the best design,” “It is well in line with global design trends,” and “It has a sporty, unusual, and ‘special’ feel that is appropriate for a new generation of Prius. It is appropriate as a Prius for the new era.
Conversely, there were many comments on the conventional Prius, with some stern comments such as, “The conventional model’s face is not good enough,” “The previous generation looks unbalanced, and I don’t like the complicated design of the face and tail,” and “The fourth generation has no beauty points other than fuel efficiency.
On the other hand, those who responded that they prefer the conventional Prius said, “Anyway, I thought the 4th generation was cool when it came out. The front design was also very much to my liking, and the line of the rear tail lamps was innovative and very cool,” and “I drive a 4th generation Prius and I am satisfied with it.
Also, comments such as “The new model has too narrow lights,” and “The 5th generation has a single letter tail and a design that places the company name (car name) one letter at a time, which is adopted by Lexus and Wagen, and is too much in vogue at any cost” were received.
The new Prius adopts a sleek coupe style, and the rear seat door knobs are embedded in the C-pillar, giving it a sporty form. It can be said that the Prius, which had pursued fuel efficiency as a pioneer of hybrid vehicles, has steered a course toward a sporty line. In the interior, the “center meter,” which was used in past models and placed in the center of the instrument panel, has been eliminated and replaced with a meter in front of the driver’s seat. It is also noteworthy that the stick shift lever, which was said to be difficult to use by some users, has been replaced with the shift lever used in recent Toyota hybrid vehicles.
The Suzuki new model Jimny 5-door will soon be released in June
The Suzuki new model “Jimny 5-door” will soon be released in June, with pre-orders already reaching 25,000 units in India. The car was unveiled at the “AUTO EXPO2023” in January and has since received a lot of attention and pre-orders. The official release was delayed to the first week of June due to the high demand. The production capacity in India is different from that of Japan, and the Gurgaon plant will produce both domestic and export versions of the Jimny 5-door.
Exclusive Positive Outlook15 Years On Nissan Skylines Crossover
ByPawaniIn the ever-evolving world of automotive innovation, Nissan’s Skyline has been a beacon of resilience and progress. With its rich history dating back many decades, the Skyline has consistently pushed boundaries and captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. In this article, we delve into the intriguing story of the Nissan Skyline Crossover and explore the potential future of this iconic model.
A Bold Beginning
The Nissan Skyline Crossover, known as the J50 type, made its debut in 2007 as the “EX.” Originally designed for North America under Nissan’s luxury car channel “Infiniti,” this compact premium SUV aimed to combine the handling and ride comfort of the famed G35 (V36 Skyline) with a 3.7-liter V6 engine, mated to a 7-speed AT.
The initial reception was positive, with praise for its interior quality and performance. However, when the model arrived in Japan in 2009, it faced some challenges. It offered limited rear-seat and cargo space for an SUV and was exclusively available with a 3.7-liter engine, leading to high vehicle tax and poor fuel efficiency. Competing in the same class as the more affordable Murano (which also had a 2.5-liter version), the Skyline Crossover struggled to gain traction in the Japanese market. Even the 2WD models came with a hefty price tag, ranging from 4.2 million yen to 4.725 million yen, making it a tough sell. Domestic sales ultimately ceased in 2014, marking the end of a short-lived era for the Skyline Crossover.
What Went Wrong?
The five-year run of the Skyline Crossover was a departure from the model’s storied history. Some automotive enthusiasts speculate that introducing a lower-priced 2.5-liter V6 gasoline engine variant, similar to one sold exclusively in China at the time, could have altered the outcome. The automotive landscape has evolved since then, with domestically produced crossover SUVs now commanding prices ranging from the late 3 million yen to around 5 million yen. If the Skyline Crossover had launched 15 years later, it might have been better positioned to thrive in today’s market.
Nissan’s discontinuation of the Murano in Japan, coupled with the rise of mid-sized SUVs like the “X-Trail” as the new flagship model, serves as a reminder of the changing tides in the industry. The failure of the Skyline Crossover was undoubtedly a bitter pill for Nissan to swallow.
Infiniti QX55: The Potential Successor
In a world where luxury crossover SUVs are currently en vogue, Nissan recognizes the importance of staying relevant. Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury division, already boasts a lineup of sizable crossover SUVs, including the QX50, QX55 (a coupe SUV), and the QX60 (a three-row SUV). With the Skyline (V37 type) now a decade old, the industry eagerly anticipates a successor.
Some industry experts speculate that Nissan might leverage the existing Infiniti SUVs, rebranding them under the Skyline name to introduce the new Skyline Crossover. The recent success of models like the Crown Crossover and Crown Sport has heightened this possibility.
A Glimpse of the Future
In a rapidly changing automotive landscape, Nissan faces significant challenges. The discontinuation of sedans like the Cima and Fuga in 2022 leaves only the Skyline remaining in Nissan’s sedan lineup. Questions linger about whether the next Skyline model will indeed materialize.
In response to reports in 2021 suggesting the cancellation of the next Skyline’s development, Nissan Vice President Asako Hoshino emphatically stated, “We will not give up on the Skyline.” For many, the Skyline represents more than just a car; it’s a source of inspiration and nostalgia.
As Nissan continues to regain momentum with a flurry of new model launches, the future of the Skyline remains uncertain yet hopeful. In an industry defined by innovation and adaptation, Nissan’s determination to uphold the legacy of the Skyline is a testament to the brand’s enduring spirit. Car enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the next chapter in the storied history of the Skyline.
Suzuki officially launched the new Jimny 5-door
Suzuki officially launched the new Jimny 5-door. Priced starting at approximately 2,157,400 yen, the model will be introduced in India. In India, expectations are high for this new version of the long version formerly known as the “Gypsy,” and the 5-door model’s front grille design exudes power and presence for off-road driving, as well as a sense of luxury. The interior is still of the same quality and design, except for the audio system, and the touch-sensor panel unit has a strong presence. The utility of the rear of the vehicle is noteworthy.
Suzuki has officially launched the new Jimny 5-door, with prices starting at approximately 2,157,400 yen, and it appears that off-road performance has hardly been compromised by the 5-door conversion, with the longer wheelbase clearly improving straight-line stability. It also seems to have increased usability, and simply changing the tires to a more rugged pattern will enhance its appeal as a visually appealing off-road 4WD. Pricing will be introduced in India.Subaru’s latest “Levorg” is ideal for Orbis surveys nationwide ! Surprised by the evolution of another dimension! I found out that I ran 900km with a 2.4L turbo equipped car .
“Subaru’s Latest “”Levorg”” Ideal for Nationwide Orbis Surveys! Amazing evolution of another dimension! What I found out after driving 900km in a 2.4L turbo-powered car
What is the result of switching from the first generation to the latest model?
My (Katsumi Osuga) job is a very special job, which is to investigate Orbis (automatic speed violation control devices) located all over the country while traveling by car.2.4-liter turbo engine makes the car extremely fast! A look at the exterior and interior of the high-performance Levorg STI Sport R
A single survey may cover 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers. Since staying in a hotel is not efficient, we frequently stay overnight in the car.
Then wouldn’t a camper or a one-box like the Toyota Hiace be more comfortable?”” Some may say, “”Well, I’m not sure,”” but the main focus is on transportation. Therefore, driving pleasure and safety are very important.
Levorg STI Sport R EX (Photo by Orvis Guide)
Subaru vehicles have a reputation for being strong on snow-covered roads. For this reason, I had to drive in Hokkaido in the middle of winter, and until recently I was driving a first-generation Subaru “”Levorg””.
And when I was thinking that it was time to replace it, I caught information last year (2021) that a 2.4-liter turbo engine would be added to the “”B-type,”” the annual improvement version of the second-generation Levorg.
So, I decided on the perfect specifications of the desired grade even before it was released and went to the dealer. I completed my new car order first thing in the morning on the first day of sales (November 25, 2021), and finally took delivery of the “”Levorg STI Sport R EX”” at the end of March 2022.
The second generation Levorg has a much higher quality exterior and interior, but since I switched from the first generation, neither my company nor my neighbors have noticed that I have switched cars. Even my parents did not notice because the body color is the same.
However, when I drove it, I found that it was a different car from the one I had before, of course.
The 1.6-liter turbo of the first generation also ran quite powerfully when set to Sport mode, but the 2.4-liter turbo of the new model exceeds it lightly even in Normal mode.
When I was driving the 1.6-liter turbo, it was inefficient until the turbo kicked in, so I had to open the throttle a bit more when starting the car. But that was only on the first day, and now I am driving with a feeling of comfort.
This feeling of space is very important when traveling long distances. For example, when driving on the highway, a car that can drive at 100 km/h is not as fatiguing as a car that can drive at the same speed of 100 km/h if it has more power. When merging onto the main line, or when watching the distance between cars around you and avoiding obstacles, you can drive more safely if you have more power.
Of course, it is not only about power. In addition to the conventional horizontally opposed engine with a low center of gravity and AWD for safety in any environment, the frame, chassis, CVT, and power steering structure have also been improved, and you can see that the quality of driving has improved dramatically.
Subaru’s latest “”Levorg”” is ideal for nationwide Orbis surveys! Amazing evolution of another dimension! What I found out after driving 900km in a 2.4L turbocharged car
Saturday, April 9, 17:10New features make it about 20% easier! But on the other hand, there are some things that concern me…
An even more significant evolution is the “”EyeSight X”” driver-assist function.The first-generation Levorg was equipped with “”EyeSight Ver. 2,”” which helped me a lot on long-distance drives. The second-generation Levorg is equipped with the latest EyeSight as well as EyeSight X, which provides even more advanced driving assistance on highways.
With EyeSight X, there were many situations where I felt that “”the car plays the leading role in driving and I play the supporting role”” rather than “”I get help””.
For example, when in traffic jams on highways (at speeds of approximately 50 km/h or less), the driver is freed from accelerating, braking, and steering wheel operation, and the car safely follows the car in front even when the driver’s hands are removed from the steering wheel.
Of course, I remain ready to drive at any time, and if I look away, the “”driver monitoring system,”” which constantly monitors the driver, will alert me (an audible alert and a warning in the meter).
When I activate the “”cruise control with all-speed follow-on function (ACC)”” on the highway except in traffic jams, all I have to do is keep my hands lightly on the steering wheel and the car does the rest.
The car will neatly trace the middle of the lane, decelerate appropriately at curves and ETC gates, and pass through them without difficulty. If the driver wants to pass a slower car, he or she simply operates the turn signal. The car will then check the safety of its surroundings and smoothly change lanes.
The feeling you get when riding in the car is that you are riding in a car of a good driver. Of course, EyeSight X is not automatic driving, and there are still many things it cannot do, but there is no doubt that long-distance driving has become about 20% easier in terms of experience.
Levorg’s meter driver assistance screen. Highway driving is now even easier (Photo by Orbis Guide).
Other innovations and equipment to reduce accidents are also available throughout, such as the “”Smart Rear View Mirror,”” which allows the driver to easily see 360 degrees around the vehicle, including the A-pillar area, and to check the rear of the vehicle even in bad weather.
In addition, the “”Subaru STARLINK”” connected service automatically connects the driver to a call center in the event of a major accident, and there is also a button to connect to a call center in the event of sudden health problems or vehicle breakdowns.
Although we have not tried it yet, it seems that if the driver loses consciousness while driving, a severe alarm will sound in the car to wake the driver, followed by a horn to alert surrounding vehicles of the abnormality, and the car will automatically stop at a safe location.
The current Levorg won the “”2020-2021 Japan Car of the Year”” award and has many fans, but the addition of this 2.4-liter turbo also adds a great deal of room.
I have listed all the good things so far, but I will also note some areas of concern.
It seems that few people who drive Subaru cars are concerned about fuel economy, but personally, I am forced to be concerned about it due to the recent rise in gasoline prices.
The actual fuel economy is 10.5 km/L when using mainly down roads, and sometimes more than 13 km/L when using mainly highways, but the fuel economy is not as good as cars made by other manufacturers. The average fuel consumption over the 900 km since delivery was 11.2 km/L. Incidentally, the 2.4-liter turbo is a high-octane version, so it is hard on the pocketbook.
Other than that, my only concerns are minor things like the lack of a place to attach a phone holder or the small accessory compartment.
The Levorg is a great car that fully embodies Subaru’s “”go farther, faster, more comfortably, and more safely”” philosophy.
I will continue to enjoy driving the car without overconfidence in its features and with safety as my top priority.”