Honda is set to make some serious modifications to
the CR-V family in Europe, and the Hybrid Prototype that's coming to the 2017
Frankfurt Motor Show previews all of them. It features the brand's first-ever
electrified SUV powertrain available in Europe, which combines a 2.0-liter
i-VTEC four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gasoline engine, with an electric
propulsion motor, and a separate electric generator motor.
The automaker says that the hybrid system doesn’t
need a conventional transmission, so instead they went with a single fixed-gear
ratio that enables "a smooth transfer of torque within the system",
and creates "a direct connection between moving components", says
Honda.
The person behind the wheel does not need
to adjust between the usual driving modes - EV, Hybrid, and Engine, as the
i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) system determines how to use the fuel and
electrical energy in the most efficient way. In most urban driving situations,
the CR-V will move between Hybrid and EV Drive, for optimum efficiency, and
when the Engine Drive is engaged, drivers have an 'on-demand' peak power boost
available from the electric propulsion motor.
Besides signaling the launch of the new CR-V Hybrid
in Europe, Honda's Frankfurt Prototype also previews its evolutionary design,
described as "sophisticated and sport". The vehicle has a larger
footprint than its predecessor, and comes with fresh styling, sharper contours
on the bonnet and rear quarters, and the brand's latest front end.
Honda will present the CR-V Hybrid Prototype during
the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, with the production version to be officially
launched in Europe next year. The new CR-V will also be available with a
1.5-liter VTEC Turbo petrol engine, mated to a 6-speed manual or a CVT
transmission, and it won't feature a diesel powertrain in Europe.
