Greentech Lead America: Honda has unveiled the 2014 Honda
Accord Plug-in Hybrid Sedan, the first plug-in hybrid from Honda combining
extensive standard features and estimated drive range over 500 miles.
The new Accord platform will go on sale in early 2013.
The 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid is powered by Honda’s first
two-motor hybrid system, and uses a new Earth DreamsTMÂ 2.0-liter i-VTEC
4-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, teamed with a powerful 124-kilowatt
(kW) electric motor. Electric driving is supported by a 6.7 kilowatt-hour (kWh)
lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery, and total system output is 196 horsepower.
The 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Sedan has the
ability to run in an all-electric mode for 10 to 15 miles. It features one of
four efficient new powertrains.
To maximize driving efficiency, the uniquely designed
two-motor hybrid system allows the Accord PHEV powertrain to move seamlessly
between all-electric EV Drive, gasoline-electric Hybrid Drive; and direct
Engine Drive.
Fuel efficiency for the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid
is expected to exceed 100 MPG-e, and it’s also expected to receive an Enhanced
AT-PZEV rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Though it is designed as a full-electric vehicle, owners
of the 2014 Accord PHEV will be able to choose two additional driving modes to
manage battery capacity and tailor the capabilities of the plug-in Accord to
their own commute. In its default upon start-up, the Accord PHEV acts as a pure
electric
vehicle and will continue on in full-electric mode until battery capacity
necessitates the automatic switch to gas/electric hybrid operation. At higher
speeds or under high demand for acceleration, the gasoline engine can kick in
to provide additional power.
In “HV” mode, the plug-in Accord acts as a
conventional hybrid, blending motor power between gasoline and electric to
maximize fuel efficiency while maintaining the battery charge level. In
“HV Charge” mode, the Accord PHEV blends gasoline and electric power
while also augmenting the battery charge level.
 A host of visibility technologies are included on
the 2014 Accord PHEV, including a rearview camera, an expanded-view driver’s
mirror, Honda’s new LaneWatch blind-spot display, LED headlights, LED daytime
running lights (DRL), and LED mirror-mounted turn indicators.
editor@greentechlead.com
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