Honda engineers overview: 2008

HONDA FCX Clarity

The FCX Clarity is ready for the road. A limited number of these groundbreaking vehicles will be leased to Southern Californians starting this summer.* Honda plans to deliver about 150 FCX Clarity hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles to customers in the first three years of its fuel cell lease program. The customer pre-qualification and selection process is already underway. The first FCX Clarity drivers will be announced at a special ceremony marking the start of production on June 16, 2008.

One of the reasons for this limited initial release is that in order to drive a fuel cell vehicle, you have to be able to refuel it. And since these clean cars do not run on gasoline, you can’t just stop at your regular corner gas station to fill up. Hydrogen fuel stations are necessary to refuel a fuel cell vehicle and, as it stands now, these stations are still quite limited.

Therefore, only customers currently residing in the Torrance, Santa Monica and Irvine areas who meet additional qualification criteria will be eligible to take an FCX Clarity home. Honda wants to ensure that FCX Clarity drivers will be able to take their vehicles in for service at participating dealers and have convenient access to refueling stations. Leasing will be handled through American Honda Motor Co., Inc. in conjunction with local dealers. Maintenance will also be covered by the three-year $600/month lease.*

If you live outside the area, don’t worry. We expect to roll out more fuel cell vehicles as more hydrogen refueling options become available. A key component of this effort is the development of Honda's Home Energy Stations. At Honda we believe that hydrogen fuel cells have the power to change our society’s energy and mobility options, and we are thrilled to have met this milestone with the introduction of the all-new FCX Clarity.

*Subject to limited availability, in designated, limited California market regions, to approved lessees by American Honda Finance Corp. Closed end lease for 2008 FCX Clarity, for qualified lessees meeting specific use and operation requirements. Not all applicants will qualify. No purchase option. Zero capitalized cost reduction. Taxes, license, title fees, liability insurance extra. Monthly payments of $600.00 for 36 months. Total monthly payments $21,600.00. No mileage limitation or excess mileage cost. See one of three authorized FCX Clarity dealers for complete details.

Hydrogen Safety

Safety was top of mind when Honda decided to put the FCX Clarity on the road. Much was learned by the successful introduction of the Civic GX Natural Gas Vehicle, which has many similar fuel-system attributes. Safety research and years of real-world, on-the-road Civic GX experience has served as an excellent proving ground for Honda’s expertise with the new fuel cell systems.

Hydrogen Safety

Sensors are located throughout the vehicle to provide a warning in the unlikely event of a hydrogen leak. Should such a leak occur, the ventilation system is activated and an automatic system closes the main cut-off valves on the hydrogen tank or supply lines as necessary. The high-voltage lines are electrically isolated. Sensors provide a warning in case of grounding. In the event of a collision, high-voltage contactors shut down the source power line. Repeated flood and fire testing have confirmed a very high level of safety and reliability.

Refueling Safety

Honda has taken safety precautions with regard to refueling safety. To prevent reverse flow from the tank, the hydrogen filler inlet has an integrated check valve. The fuel intake mechanism is also designed to prevent contamination by other gases or the connection of nozzles designed for hydrogen stored at incompatible pressure levels.

The FCX Clarity is not an experiment or prototype. This is a full-featured vehicle that can be driven with both pride and confidence. Learn more about how the FCX Clarity helps keep you safe in a crash.

refueling

The FCX Clarity is capable of traveling about 270 miles before refueling,* a reasonable distance for most people. When you do need fuel, it’s easy and safe to do at one of the designated hydrogen refueling stations in your area. The fill-up only takes a few minutes.

Honda is also working toward a future where you may be able to fuel up right in your own garage using a Home Energy Station.

*Honda in-house data calculated using previously approved EPA methodology.

safety

We believe safety can apply to all vehicles—even the groundbreaking ones. Six airbags are standard. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. Even Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) systems are present and accounted for.

And the FCX Clarity passed all the same rigorous tests required by U.S. safety standards that other Honda models have endured. So you can drive the FCX Clarity with confidence.

Unique Protection

Omni-directional crash protection is in place to help protect the hydrogen and electrical devices in the event of a collision.

Next Best Thing to a Co-Pilot

Honda Motor Co., LTD introduced the Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) in 2003, and we have now added it to the FCX Clarity. CMBS™ can help detect certain potential collisions and, through the use of visual and audio alerts plus an automatic tug of the seat belt, it can alert the driver to take action. If a collision cannot be avoided, front seat belts are automatically retracted and braking force reduces the vehicle's speed to help lessen the force of the collision.*

Honda has also taken safety precautions with regard to tank and refueling safety. Learn more.

*Depending on the speed of closure between the vehicles, CMBS may skip one or both of the steps prior to braking.

next-generation FCX

From the start, Honda engineers designed this car to be tons of fun to drive. Acceleration in the FCX Clarity is smooth and powerful for a great overall driving experience.

Information gleaned from multiple generations of Honda fuel cell vehicles pays off right now. Compared to the previous model, the powertrain on this next-generation FCX Clarity:

Is over 397 pounds lighter
Has 120% better power-to-weight ratio
Is 20% more fuel efficient
Has a powertrain that is 45% more compact and 10% more energy-efficient

Free and Clear

First, the basics: a fuel cell vehicle is powered by an electric motor running on electricity generated by a hydrogen-powered fuel cell stack. The Honda E-Drive electric motor lets you drive with peace of mind knowing that you are helping to reduce the amount of CO₂ being released in our atmosphere. The compact coaxial motor is quieter and works at higher rpm, for greater efficiency and speed.

Get Vertical

The Vertical Flow (V Flow) fuel cell stack is one of Honda’s greatest breakthroughs in this area. The new design is smaller, allowing for better packaging efficiency. With a smaller stack, there’s room for more people. This ingenious design allows higher cell voltage stability and reduces the amount of heat generated. Gravity also helps with drainage of the excess water.

Added Power

The compact, high-efficiency lithium-ion battery pack is used as a supplemental power source capturing lost energy during deceleration and braking. The new lithium-ion battery delivers improved performance and energy recovery in a more lightweight, compact package. The new battery is significantly lighter and smaller than the ultra-capacitor of the 2005 FCX, allowing it to be stowed under the rear seat. This gives the car more passenger space and a bigger trunk.

Low Profile

Stylish? Definitely. It’s time to take another look at the FCX. This new model has a lower floor and sleeker overall design thanks to integration of the more compact stack and smaller powertrain. Thin A-pillars allow better visibility. A flat-bottom underbody reduces aerodynamic drag and increases efficiency.

advanced interior comfort

Ever wonder what the future feels like? Spend some quality time inside the FCX Clarity and you’ll be pleased to discover that craftsmanship is alive and well there, as is advanced interior comfort. Everything inside this roomy four-passenger vehicle is designed with humans in mind.

Rooted in Comfort

A significant percentage of the seating material in the FCX Clarity is derived from plants to extend its environmental sensibility even further. The revolutionary Honda Bio-Fabric provides a CO₂ reduction of 30% compared to conventional polyester made from petroleum products. Not only is the Honda Bio-Fabric better for the environment, but it also provides outstanding elasticity which helps to prevent sagging and it is silky soft to the touch. It’s also durable enough to withstand everyday wear and tear. And each seat is individually contoured to complement the human form.

Evolved Interior

The interior of the FCX Clarity has a clean, inviting feel accomplished with naturally warm earth-tone colors. Silver accents with piano-black finish complete the distinctive markings of this highly evolved species.

Seats and Storage

All the amenities you’ve come to expect from Honda are right there where you need them. Heated and cooled seats keep you comfortable no matter the season. A rear center console does double duty as a tray table, and front and rear door pockets are convenient places to stash your stuff.

Technology of Tomorrow

The advanced technology on this car isn’t all reserved for the powertrain. A Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™* with voice recognition and rearview camera helps you coming and going — and it even finds your nearest hydrogen station. XM® Radio† and an MP3/auxiliary input jack in the center console rock your world. Even the glove compartment is outfitted with Honda’s USB Audio Interface.**

Dash Around Town

A multi-layered instrument panel floats before your eyes, and 3-D gauges stand out with the information you need. The futuristic hydrogen-consumption gauge changes color and size to reflect hydrogen consumption as your driving conditions change. During high consumption the ball becomes large and amber colored. As consumption decreases, it shrinks and turns yellow then blue. If you’re ready to go high tech with the car of the future, just hit the Vehicle Start Button.

*The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is available in the United States except Alaska. See your Honda dealer for details.

†Required XM® Radio monthly subscription sold separately after 90-day trial period. Installation costs and other fees and taxes may apply after initial trial period, including a one-time activation fee. Subscription fee is consumer only. All fees and programming subject to change. Subscriptions subject to Customer Agreement available at xmradio.com. XM service only available in the United States except Alaska. The XM name is a registered trademark of XM Satellite Radio Inc.

**The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA, or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your dealer for details on compatibility.

Exterior

In developing the FCX Clarity, Honda has managed to strike the perfect balance between futuristic technology and the very human desire for a thrilling ride. The result amounts to zero emissions and maximum driving experience.

Yes, the FCX Clarity is the car of the future, but it’s ready for the road this summer.

Shaping Standards

This dynamic full-cabin sedan was designed to set the sedan standard for the next century. The aggressive front end features a 6-sided grille and the whole package is wrapped up in a sophisticated, rich color we call Star Garnet Metallic.

Back to the Future

Even from the rear, this vehicle commands attention. Elegantly tapered passenger cabin lines complement the accentuated fender flares. A high center slopes down lower at the fenders. And in the back you’ll find an under-trunk storage well, offering a convenient place to store valuables away from prying eyes. Honda adds another first with the addition of refractive rear privacy glass on part of the trunk, which adds to driver visibility through the rear view.

Secret Ingredients

The hood, trunk, doors and fenders are crafted with aluminum to lighten the load and increase efficiency. Front and rear subframes are made from extruded aluminum to heighten this effect. Ultra-lightweight 5-spoke forged aluminum wheels enhance efficiency.

Honda Genuine Accessories

Talk to your dealer about which Honda Genuine Accessories you’d like on your new Civic Sedan. If installed at the time of vehicle purchase, they’re covered by the Honda 3-year/36,000-mile New-Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Leather Steering-Wheel Cover

XM® Satellite Radio

Exterior Accessories

Wheels, Splash Guards, Spoilers, Attachments and more for your Civic Sedan.

Interior Accessories

Floor Mats, Cargo Organizers, and more.

Electronic Accessories

Beef up your factory audio, security, or add functionality to your Civic Sedan

Enviroment

Civic EX Sedan shown in Tango Red Pearl.

For three decades, Honda has played a leading role in meeting environmental challenges.

Good Genes

The Civic Sedan is a direct descendent of the 1975 Civic CVCC, which was the first vehicle to pass the emissions requirement of the Clean Air Act without using a catalytic converter. The Civic has come a long way since then, and now features technological achievements that are just as impressive.

Go Low

Today's Civic Sedan features a 1.8-liter, single overhead camshaft, aluminum-alloy i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine that provides exceptional fuel economy (30 mpg city/40 mpg highway^*), and qualifies as an Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle (ULEV-2) in all 50 states.

^* Automatic transmissions only.

Environment Features

Safe Advances

The Civic Sedan is packed with both active and passive safety features to help you avoid accidents and shield you from the unexpected.

Take It Outside

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure enhances the vehicle's ability to absorb crash energy in impacts with vehicles of differing sizes. The safest decision you can make is to buckle up, so the Civic offers 3-point seat belts at every seating position.

Stay In Control

The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps you maintain steering control during hard stops, while the Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) system apportions appropriate braking force depending on how the vehicle is dynamically loaded.

Safe Advances

Advanced features like these help prepare you and your passengers for driving in an unpredictable world.

Honda’s Safety Philosophy

Honda is committed to providing safety for everyone—not only for our own drivers and passengers, but also for other vehicle occupants and pedestrians. Using the knowledge gained from going beyond government regulations to study real-world situations, Honda identifies new technologies that ultimately help to provide safer vehicles on roadways for everyone. Learn more.

Safety Features

Honda engineers for optimum performance.

Civic EX Sedan shown in Atomic Blue Metallic.
Honda engineers for optimum performance.
Horses That Might Be Camels
The 140-hp, 1.8-liter, 16-valve SOHC i-VTEC® engine powering the Civic Sedan uses less fuel than you’d expect.
Need for 5 Speeds
And you can choose either the smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission or the 5-speed automatic—the first 5-speed in its class.
Handling Things
Thanks to sophisticated suspension and steering systems, the Civic is exceptionally agile and responsive. Powerful braking is achieved with front disc and rear drum brakes on DX and LX vehicles, while the EX sports discs all around.
Performance Features

* 140-hp, 1.8-Liter, 16-Valve SOHC i-VTEC® Engine
* 5-Speed Automatic Transmission
* Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System
* Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition
* 5-Speed Manual Transmission

Civic EX Sedan shown in Alabaster Silver Metallic.

Art in motion.

Go Ahead, Stare

With sleek lines and a futuristic style, this is one car that deserves every last long look. And it’s not just easy on the eyes—a convenient remote entry system also makes it easy to access. Power side mirrors add to the sophisticated style.

Drama—the Good Kind

A long windshield angles directly into the hood. And the Civic features short front and rear overhangs, plus a tightened gap between the tire and wheelwell. Because when it comes to creating a true work of art, Honda considers every

2008 HONDA CIVIC PERFORMENT

Civic Hybrid shown in Magnetic Pearl.

Today's Civic Hybrid represents the very latest in our commitment to positive environmental change.

Right Where It Helps

You'll feel the benefits of the refined gasoline-electric powertrain on the Civic Hybrid right there in your wallet at fill-up time. And with an EPA-estimated city/highway rating of 40 city/45 hwy mpg,* you won't have to stop for quite a while.

Wow

Mile after mile, you get to enjoy the thoroughly modern style, comfort and convenience of a Honda Civic. The Civic Hybrid is living proof that environmentalism and style can go hand in hand.

Air Apparent

The air also benefits with the Advanced Technology Partial-Zero-Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV) rating, which is the most stringent emission standard achieved by a gasoline-powered vehicle in the U.S.

* Based on 2008 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

†AT-PZEV rated by California Air Resources Board (CARB).

Environment Features

Civic Hybrid

The Civic Hybrid is packed with leading-edge safety technology.

Setting the Safety Standard

The Civic Hybrid has essential safety features such as side curtain airbags and dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags (SRS).

Safety ACE

The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure spreads out the crash energy in impacts with vehicles of differing sizes. All four doors feature side-impact beams designed to help prevent intrusion into the passenger space. And you'll appreciate other important safety features such as front 3-point seat belts with automatic tensioning system for all seats, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Honda’s Safety Philosophy

Safety Features

interior

Civic Hybrid interior shown in Blue with available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System.™*

Reverse Your Thinking.

It’s All Good

If you think driving a hybrid vehicle is a necessary sacrifice for the good of the environment, it's time to reverse your thinking. The Civic Hybrid with available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™* with voice recognition might be a good place to start. Or listen to this: a 160-watt CD audio system capable of playing MP3 and WMA formats puts groove into your commute. A flat floor ensures there’s room to move.

Friendly Reminder

And just to remind you it is a hybrid you're driving, Honda has included a handy Average Fuel Consumption Indicator. This hybrid operates at a whole different altitude.

* Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include but are not limited to automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.

honda civic 2008

The stylish Civic Hybrid is definitely green. But when it comes to fitting your lifestyle, this technological marvel is also true-blue.

Environmentally Friendlier

Estimated 45 mpg on the highway*
AT-PZEV CARB Emissions Rating†
Idle-stop feature

Gracious Interior

Available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™** with Voice Recognition
160-Watt AM/FM/CD Audio System with 6 Speakers††
Average Fuel Consumption Indicator

Stellar Performance

110-hp, 8-Valve, SOHC, i-VTEC® 4-Cylinder Engine
Hybrid technology featuring Integrated Motor Assist IMA®
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

*Based on 2008 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

† AT-PZEV rated by California Air Resources Board (CARB).

** Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include but are not limited to automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.

†† Required XM® Radio monthly subscription sold separately after 90 day trial period. Installation costs and other fees and taxes may apply after initial trial period, including a one-time activation fee. Subscription fee is consumer only. All fees and programming subject to change. Subscriptions subject to Customer Agreement available at xmradio.com. XM service only available in the 48 contiguous United States. The XM name is a registered trademark of XM Satellite Radio Inc.