Plug-in tech: Honda vs Toyota

Following the announcement of the second testing program in Japan (earlier post), Honda has disclosed details of the EV and PHV that will be tested.

The PHV is based on the JDM Inspire and it is equipped with a 2.0 L engine using the Atkinson cycle. The powertrain consists also of two motors and a Li-Ion battery. One of the motors has a maximum output of 120 kW and is used to drive the vehicle and regenerate energy. The other is used as a generator that can generate about 100 kW of electricity.

This system is different from Toyota PHV due to the use of two motors, and it can independently operate the engine and the motors. As a result, it becomes possible to drive the vehicle (1) as an EV only by electricity, (2) as a hybrid vehicle by using the engine and the motors and (3) as a gasoline vehicle by using only the engine.

Honda announces new plug-in vehicle testing program

Honda has already announced a testing program in the US and now, it's time for Japan with Saitama Prefecture. Honda will test its next-generation personal mobility products, including EVs, PHVs (next-gen Accord, aka Inspire, will be the first model to get a PHV version - earlier post), electric scooters and electric carts. Solar-powered charging stations will also be tested.

In March 2009, Honda and Saitama Prefecture concluded an agreement to collaborate on environmental issues. Based on this agreement, Honda will start an Electric Vehicle Testing Program in the cities of Saitama, Kumagaya and Chichibu. Honda is also considering the possibility of conducting a similar program in China.

Next-gen Honda Accord/Inspire to get PHV version

According to Honda's president, Takanobu Ito, a PHV (Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle) system for medium sized vehicles has been developed and it will be sold in the States in 2012.

The next-gen Accord (Inspire in Japan) will be the first model to get a PHV version, which will use the engine in order to power the batteries. The system will be similar to the one of the Toyota Prius PHV and GM's Volt. It is likely that a 1.5L petrol engine will be used.

The next-gen Accord will also be available with a number of petrol engines (e.g. 2.4L R4 and 3.5L V6) and a "normal" hybrid version will also be introduced.