With the introduction of Honda Next-Gen e:HEV Hybrid powertrains, there will be an increase in overall fuel efficiency by 10%
Iconic Japanese car manufacturer, Hondashowcased its Next Gen e:HEV Hybrid powertrains today, 18th December 2024, at a press briefing in Tokyo, Japan. These Next Gen technologies are scheduled to be installed in future Hybrid-electric vehicles. Also, the company made some updates to its original 2-motor e:HEV hybrid powertrains.
Honda Next Gen Hybrid Powertrains
With a mission to continuously evolve and adapt to changing technologies, Honda has showcased Next Gen e:HEV Hybrid powertrains. These powertrains will work on the same principle as Honda’s original 2-motor e:HEV Hybrid systems but will feature meaningful updates for a promised 10% gain in fuel efficiency.
Next Gen e:HEV systems will come in both Small (1.5L engine) and Mid (2.0L engine) size systems. There will be three modes for highly efficient operation for Honda’s Next Gen e:HEV systems. The system seamlessly switches between these three modes. First, we have an EV Drive Mode where the drive is fully electric for a prescribed range.
Secondly, we have Hybrid Drive Mode car that predominantly runs on an electric motor and engine is used as a generator to charge the battery. Lastly, we have Engine Drive Mode where a clutch is engaged and engine is now directly connected to the wheels. This last mode is unique to Honda e:HEV Hybrid systems.
Next Gen e:HEV Hybrid systems from Honda will feature improved efficiency in both 1.5L and 2.0L engines. Power conversion and engine efficiency in Hybrid Mode are said to be improved for the highest combustion efficiency. Performance from engine and motor is also said to be increased along with torque transmission efficiency.
Honda Prelude to Debut the Next Gen e:HEV Hybrid Powertrains
For the viability of business, Honda aims to streamline many of the components between the 1.5L e:HEV system and 2.0L e:HEV system. The downsized packaging and increased efficiency will play a key role in reducing production costs too. Next Gen e:HEV Hybrid powertrains will debut with Honda Prelude in 2025.
Among the main improvements will be the new Honda S+ Shift for ‘joy of driving’. Honda S+ Shift will control engine RPMs with precision during acceleration, deceleration, and gear shifting. Honda’s Next Gen e:HEVs will feature electric AWD (E-AWD) shared between Hybrid and EVs, for better driving dynamics and improved performance in less-traction situations.
Apart from just powertrains, Honda will also wholistically improve their Next Gen e:HEVs. Elements like steering stability index, vehicle weight reduction by 10%, reducing platform weight by 90kg, multiple body sizes owing to modular architecture and reduction of costs among others.
