-
Honda is committed to lithium-ion batteries for its next-generation hybrids and is also keen to see a growing line-up of hydrogen-powered fuel-cell cars, says chief executive Takanobu Ito.
A hybrid Jazz is the next step in Honda's plan for a greener future.
It also intends to have a battery-electric commuter car and a plug-in hybrid in the USA in 2012, although there is no news yet on Australian sales plans for the cars. Honda is committed to lithium-ion batteries for its next-generation hybrids and is also keen to see a growing line-up of hydrogen-powered fuel-cell cars, says chief executive Takanobu Ito.
He outlines the company's plans during his annual mid-year address in Tokyo and says all of Honda's planning is now a reaction to ‘the global shift towards smaller vehicles and greener machines’. But Ito does not rule out conventional petrol power for halo cars at the brand, giving a renewed commitment to the V6-powered Legend flagship and also hinting on a smaller replacement for the S2000 sports car.
"As we are in the midst of a difficult business environment, nothing is more important than going back to Honda’s basic principle, that is, to see things from the customer’s view point, and continue offering products that please our customers," Ito says.
He says Honda has set three targets for the next decade: advancing environmental technologies, strengthening the brand's manufacturing system and building a stronger presence in emerging nations. For Australia, the approach is likely to mean more high-tech Hondas but also a continued value push with cars built in Thailand.
Ito is committing Honda to widespread development work as the company recovers from the global financial crisis, through to a smaller diesel engine for Europe, new petrol engines and transmissions, as well as a plug-in hybrid system suitable for mid-to-large vehicles - perhaps even SUVs and pickups - to meet future emission standards in the USA.
"In the long-term, fuel-cell electric vehicles will provide the ultimate mobility. And Honda will continue working on the technological advancement of the FCX Clarity as well as our hydrogen refueling systems," Ito says.
