About Honda's SPORT HYBRID powertrain...

When the Insight first launched in 1999, Honda waged a war against Toyota in the hybrid car market and as it turned out, Honda wasn't quite a successful carmaker to sell hybrids as Toyota did. Even when the Insight returned in 2009, months ahead of the third-generation Prius' arrival, the game of WHO RULES is getting a favor over Toyota against Honda. No matter how many things Honda throw something to Toyota, especially the sporty CR-Z hatchback, it doesn't work. Seems that Honda's IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) is nowhere near as good as Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive.

To counterattack Toyota Hybrid System, Honda Motor Co., Ltd told last year that they'll be showcasing a new generation of hybrid powertrains known as SPORT HYBRID and this is part of Honda's EARTH DREAMS TECHNOLOGY. There are three types of SPORT HYBRID powertrains and it was made specifically for different vehicles from Honda.

SPORT HYBRID

The first was Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive (IDCD), and Honda says that this is a significally advanced lightweight and compact one-motor system developed for Honda's next generation of compact cars. Maybe the next generation Honda Fit would fit onto that category but how does it work? The IDCD combines a 1.5L engine with a seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox (instead of CVT, how lovely) containing an integrated, high-output electric motor powered by the car’s lithium-ion batteries. When going and high speeds, both the electric motor and the engine kicks in for combined power while in low speeds, the batteries are in charge. Honda says that this new IDCD will be 30% more fuel efficient than the normal IMA.

For medium-sized cars, the second powertrain in the SPORT HYBRID range will be Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive and it will be implemented on the ninth-generation Honda Accord, coming in Japan on the second half of 2013 (I think). I almost forgot, Honda Cars told me that the ninth-generation Honda Accord will be..hybrid-only. Yep, hybrid-only to compete against the hybrid-only Toyota Camry. Don't know? Click here.

Anyway, about the Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive coming on the ninth-generation Accord, there are three distinct driving modes to choose from; EV Drive allows the car to run on pure electric mode, Engine Drive that is suitable for medium to high speeds. and Hybrid Drive lets both the electric motor and the gasoline engine join forces in case of heavy acceleration and stop-and-go city driving.

Lastly, Honda will feature Sport Hybrid SH-AWD as previewed on the NSX Concept back in 2012 NAIAS but didn't spill the bits. Anyway, the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD uses electric motors to run the rear wheels, combined with a petrol engine and seven-speed, dual clutch transmission with an integrated electric motor up front, the system offers an ideal blend of performance and fuel economy. Honda says that it will have a performance of a V8 car while having a fuel economy of a V6 car. Sounds juicy for me....

SPORT HYBRID, I'm not sure if Honda will keep promises to its "The Power of Dreams" slogan but is this going to work or a flop? Look for these in future Honda models very soon and find out...