TH E MOST S I G N I F I CA NT PRODUCT E V ER I S . . .

HYBRID VEHICLES

Worlds first Sporty Hybrid

Throughout the many years of developement, Honda has become well known for its motorcycles such as the iconic CB750, and internal combustion engines such as the famous VTEC double overhead cams. Their famous recent slogan ‘Power of Dreams’ is quite honest, as each of Honda’s cars have a unique driving feel to it, and this new Hybrid CR-Z is no exception, with a sporty appearance as an icing on top; being the first sporty hybrid. The latest generation to carry the ecocative name retains the supple road handling, sharp dynamics and responsive feedback of the original CR-X combined with efficient performance and economy from its IMA (integrated motor assistance) system. We also have to give them credit for their well-known ap-proach in making the interior futuristic; a little ahead of our time.Despite the lack of rear seat space in this car, we now have a foundation spot given us the prospective to build upon to develope unforeseen hybrids vehicles in the future. On a side note, Jaguar’s taken opportunity to also build their version of a hybrid car, but this time a ‘Supercar’ hybrid, benefitting from each wheel being powered by electric motors. However, the RRP of it would be beyond most of our reach unless you’re Bill Gates.

02 2010

HONDA CR-Z

REACHING OUT NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Worlds first Sporty Hybrid

For many years, Nissan has produced a number of magnificent cars and engines from family-friendly to pure petrol head experi-ence, such as the Micra and the Skyline GT-R beast. They have still carried on this tradition, only this time more discrete, with the price of fuel it limits the joy people crave for. However, with the help of modern technology, emitting zero emissions, Nissan brings their first all eletric Leaf to families. There are different types of hybrid vehicles in the market, such as the Petrol-Electric you see in the CR-Z - normal petrol engine, with the added Eletric motor to assist on. Then the like of the Leaf that runs entirely on electricity, doesn’t have a petrol engine, however the battery needs to be charged.

In terms of economy, the Leaf can achieve a staggering 99mpg and the CR-Z achieves an average 60mpg. Hybrid technology will continue to develope, as there’s plenty of ways to configure and play around with to achieve good economy.

Economic

Three driving modes consisting of Sport, Normal and Economy; different given throttle responses for driver’s choice, whether stuck in traffic, casual driving or in for a spirit run. With technology boom-ing, there’s also a new auto-stop function to save that extra drop of fuel.

Suspension and wheel setup is exception-ally important to maintain the structure of the car and for best of comfort. Manu-facturers try out development tests on various roads, from bumpy back yards to stoney hill sides. Wheel size plays a huge factor too.

Engine/electric motor Leaf: 80 kW (110 hp), 280 N·m (210 ft·lb CR-Z: 112 hp (84 kW) @ 6000rpm 107 lb·ft (145 N·m) @ 4800rpmElectric: 14 hp 58 lb·ft

NISSAN LEAF

STEP BY STEP DEVELOPMENT AND CHANGE

Real world all electric

HYBRID VEHICLES Recharging...