Honda's Next-Gen Hybrid System: A New Era for Efficient and Fun Driving
Honda has been scaling back its electric car ambitions in favor of hybrid power, a decision that might raise eyebrows among those expecting the Japanese manufacturer to make a bigger push into EVs. However, with the introduction of its new Next Generation Hybrid System (NGHS), Honda is poised to shake up the hybrid market with lighter, quicker, and more engaging machines.
The NGHS consists of three platforms: Small, Medium, and Large, each designed to be modular and adaptable to different models while retaining a common foundation. This modular approach allows manufacturers to roll out new hybrid offerings quickly and at a lower cost. Honda plans to ramp up its hybrid efforts significantly in the coming years.
At Honda's proving grounds near Tochigi, Japan, I had the chance to drive two prototype cars that showcased the potential of this new system. The vehicles were designed around the Small platform for smaller models like ultra-minis, while the Medium and Large platforms would be used in mid-size cars such as crossovers and V6-powered sedans.
Each platform is tied together by a series of advancements aimed at reducing weight without sacrificing crash safety. This includes the creation of more compact batteries tucked beneath the rear seat. The result is significant weight savings, with estimates suggesting up to 90 kilograms (200 pounds) shaved off in vehicles like the Civic.
But the most exciting aspect of Honda's NGHS is its potential for improved driving dynamics. By combining electric motors and optimized software, manufacturers can create cars that feel engaging and responsive without the need for traditional transmissions. This is where the S+ Shift system comes into play – a virtual transmission that allows drivers to experience the thrill of shifting gears while still using the efficiency of hybrid power.
I was pleasantly surprised by the effectiveness of the S+ Shift mode during my test drive, which featured a prototype sedan and a forthcoming Prelude coupe. The car's handling felt crisp and responsive, with an improved ride quality that more than made up for the lack of traditional suspension travel.
While Honda hasn't yet announced where this new platform will first appear, it's likely to debut in models like the next-generation Civic. When it does, expect a significant boost in efficiency, reduced road noise, and most importantly, a lot more fun driving. With its Next Generation Hybrid System, Honda is poised to shake up the hybrid market with innovative technology that makes driving both efficient and enjoyable.
Honda has been scaling back its electric car ambitions in favor of hybrid power, a decision that might raise eyebrows among those expecting the Japanese manufacturer to make a bigger push into EVs. However, with the introduction of its new Next Generation Hybrid System (NGHS), Honda is poised to shake up the hybrid market with lighter, quicker, and more engaging machines.
The NGHS consists of three platforms: Small, Medium, and Large, each designed to be modular and adaptable to different models while retaining a common foundation. This modular approach allows manufacturers to roll out new hybrid offerings quickly and at a lower cost. Honda plans to ramp up its hybrid efforts significantly in the coming years.
At Honda's proving grounds near Tochigi, Japan, I had the chance to drive two prototype cars that showcased the potential of this new system. The vehicles were designed around the Small platform for smaller models like ultra-minis, while the Medium and Large platforms would be used in mid-size cars such as crossovers and V6-powered sedans.
Each platform is tied together by a series of advancements aimed at reducing weight without sacrificing crash safety. This includes the creation of more compact batteries tucked beneath the rear seat. The result is significant weight savings, with estimates suggesting up to 90 kilograms (200 pounds) shaved off in vehicles like the Civic.
But the most exciting aspect of Honda's NGHS is its potential for improved driving dynamics. By combining electric motors and optimized software, manufacturers can create cars that feel engaging and responsive without the need for traditional transmissions. This is where the S+ Shift system comes into play – a virtual transmission that allows drivers to experience the thrill of shifting gears while still using the efficiency of hybrid power.
I was pleasantly surprised by the effectiveness of the S+ Shift mode during my test drive, which featured a prototype sedan and a forthcoming Prelude coupe. The car's handling felt crisp and responsive, with an improved ride quality that more than made up for the lack of traditional suspension travel.
While Honda hasn't yet announced where this new platform will first appear, it's likely to debut in models like the next-generation Civic. When it does, expect a significant boost in efficiency, reduced road noise, and most importantly, a lot more fun driving. With its Next Generation Hybrid System, Honda is poised to shake up the hybrid market with innovative technology that makes driving both efficient and enjoyable.
! Switching from electric to hybrid power might seem like a step back for some, but trust me, their Next Gen Hybrid System (NGHS) is a game-changer 
. By making it modular, they can roll out new models faster and cheaper – talk about efficiency 
! And the weight savings are insane, up to 200 pounds shaved off in something like the Civic? That's wild 
.
. Honda's onto something big here, and I'm stoked to see where they take this tech in future models 
. Bring on that next-gen Civic! 
. plus, the fact that they're working on compact batteries tucked beneath the rear seat is genius 
.
. i mean, who needs a traditional transmission when you can have virtual shifting and still get the efficiency of hybrid power? 
it's like having the best of both worlds!
! my money is on the next-gen civic getting an upgrade with this bad boy 
.
the s+ shift system is genius, it's like having a supercar without all that extra weight 
and the fact that they've managed to shave off up to 90kgs from the civic is just mindblowing 
this new system is a game changer for anyone who loves driving and wants to have a blast while doing it 
like, who doesn't want a car that's both fun to drive & good for the planet? 
plus the s+ shift system sounds so cool! 
can't wait to experience the thrill of shifting gears without the need for a traditional transmission 
And with the weight savings, you can bet these cars will be zipping around the city in no time 
. But what really gets me is how Honda's modular approach is going to disrupt the industry - it's all about flexibility and innovation 
. Can't wait to see where this new platform goes! 
. And the fact that they're putting a focus on driving dynamics? That's what gets me excited about cars - the thrill of the drive 
.
. And with weight savings and improved crash safety? That's a win-win in my book 
.
. This new system is all about efficiency and fun driving - what's wrong with that? 
Bring on those next-gen Civics and get ready to shift gears! 
i mean i had a chance to test drive 2 prototype cars & the handling was SO crisp & responsive 
plus the ride quality was way better than i expected! i cant wait for the next gen civic to come out with this tech lol the weight savings r insane too (up to 90kg shaved off!) 
. seriously though, honda is really stepping up their hybrid game and i'm all for it 
. can't wait to see these new cars in action, especially the next-gen civic 
Not me, that's for sure. And yeah, the S+ Shift system sounds EPIC 
The fact that they've got these three platforms to choose from should make it easy for them to adapt their designs to different models. Plus, the idea of an S+ Shift system is super cool - it's like having the best of both worlds: efficiency and fun! 
and still with the eco-friendliness. anyway, gonna be interesting to see how this plays out, especially if it makes its way into the new Civic... 
. it's definitely something that will make me consider buying a honda over other brands