Honda is emphasizing a move toward higher gas mileage across the board, with the next Accord leading the way by delivering the best fuel economy in the family car segment. The new car will be the first to use the company's "Earth Dreams" technology strategy, first put on display at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Show. Current powerplants will be replaced by direct injection four cylinders and V6s, while a new CVT will replace traditional automatics across the board. These changes alone are expected to increase fuel economy 10-20% over the current model, while offering a modest bump in power.
The Coupe Concept will also utilize an upcoming plug-in hybrid system. Unlike the SH-AWD V6-based system included in Earth Dreams, the concept will debut a simpler, cheaper system powering only the front wheels via a four cylinder and electric motor combo. Along with electric-only and gasoline plus electric modes, this system will also be able the first hybrid to have an engine-only for improved highway fuel economy. All-electric range is expected to be around fifteen miles. Production models will be limited to the sedan bodystyle for at least the first model year. Other details, such as the charging system and production availability, should be released once the car hits the auto show floor.
