Japanese carmaker Honda is set to push forward with its green car efforts as it debuts a plug-in hybrid version of its popular Accord saloon car.
The 2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid (pictured) will be able to run on electric power only for 10-15miles and will boast an overall driving range of more than 500miles thanks to one of the powertrains that features in the all-new Accord model.
It is set to be powered by the first two-motor hybrid system from Honda and will use an Earth Dreams i-VTEC 2.0litre four cylinder engine that is capable of producing 137hp at 6,200rpm; as well as an 124kW electric motor. This means it will have a greater total system output than the Chevrolet Volt, Toyota Plug-in Prius and the Ford Fusion Energi Plug-in Hybrid.
In a bid to maximise efficiency, drivers will be able to switch between electric vehicle driving mode; hybrid drive; and direct engine drive. Honda is hopeful that the vehicle will return fuel economy that exceeds 100mpg-e.
Within its default setting, the Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle will act purely in electric mode during start up – until the battery capacity dictates that it needs to switch to petrol/electric mode. At higher speeds, the petrol engine will kick in to supply the necessary power.
In addition, drivers will be able to choose between: hybrid mode, which sees the vehicle act as a conventional hybrid and blend motor power between the petrol engine and electric motor for maximum efficiency; and hybrid charge mode which blends the power while also augmenting the battery charge level.
The 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid Sedan will be built in Sayama, Japan and is set to go on sale in early 2013.
Paul is a freelance writer with a background in everything from motoring to finance; and holidays to women's undergarments he just writes about them, honestly! He has now sadly crept into his early 30s and seems to have forgotten everything learned at school Still, he's a green car fanatic and isn't that what counts?
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