Honda Type R makes a comeback... In Europe

At the Paris Motor Show Press Conference, Honda’s European President, Manabu Nishimae announced the addition of an all- new Civic ‘wagon’- style model to the Honda range and confirmed the introduction of a new Civic Type R, for Europe, in 2015.

New Civic ‘Wagon’
A new derivative of Honda’s European Civic will be introduced in the form of a Civic ‘wagon’ model. A concept model will be shown next year.

Civic Type R for Europe
Thrilling, sporty products are part of Honda’s DNA. In addition to the introduction of a new NSX, Honda has confirmed the development of an all-new Civic Type R for Europe. The Type R brand has a passionate following from Honda customers and the new model will again aim to set new standards in performance and handling. Developed specifically for the European market and with the application of technologies developed through Honda’s participation in the World Touring Car Championships (WTCC), the all-new Type R will aim to become the fastest front-wheel-drive vehicle on the Nurburgring race course. This new model is scheduled for introduction in 2015.

European Civic races in WTCC from October 2012
The Civic WTCC car developed by Honda Racing Team JAS will make its debut at the Suzuka round in October. The racing machine has been tested by Gabriele Tarquini and will be driven by Tiago Monteiro. Honda are excited about our return to racing and will race the full season in 2013 with both the drivers.

New range of hybrid technologies
Honda firmly believes hybrid technology will play a critical role in the reduction of CO2 emissions. Honda will build on its hybrid expertise to introduce three new hybrid systems. Each system will possess unique characteristics and their deployment will reflect varying customer needs. Firstly, Honda will further develop its lightweight and compact one-motor hybrid system with the aim of achieving No1 fuel economy among all hybrid vehicles. Improvements in motor output and battery performance and a newly developed transmission will help to extend the zero emission electric driving range.

Honda is also developing a new more powerful two-motor hybrid system for mid-size vehicles.
Finally, a highly efficient and high output 3-motor hybrid system, the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) will focus on driving performance. This technology will be applied to the new NSX.

Honda believes this range of new hybrid technologies will deliver unrivalled driving performance and fuel economy.

Next generation Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle for Europe
Honda considers fuel cell electric vehicles to be the ultimate environmentally-responsible technology and as such, has attempted to lead the industry in R&D and sales activity. The introduction of the FCX Clarity in 2008, demonstrated Honda’s progress in this field. Starting in 2015, Honda will launch an all-new fuel cell electric model which will showcase the significant technological advancements and cost reductions that Honda has accomplished since the launch of the FCX Clarity in 2008. This model will be introduced to Japan, USA and Europe.

Credits: JonathanTan