Honda’s Advanced VTEC Engine
September 26th, 2006
Honda has further advanced its VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System) technology with the development of the Advanced VTEC engine, which achieves high performance along with outstanding fuel economy and lower emissions. The new engine combines continuously variable valve lift and timing control with the continuously variable phase control of VTC (Variable Timing Control). Honda plans to release a production vehicle equipped with the new engine within three years.
This new system permits optimum control over intake valve lift and phase in response to driving conditions, achieving improved charging efficiency for a significant increase in torque at all engine speeds. Under low to medium load levels, the valves are set for low lift and early closure to reduce pumping losses and improve fuel economy.
Tags: vtec, vtc, variable timing control, honda engine, engine, variable valve timing
California Sues Automakers Over Global Warming
September 20th, 2006
California’s attorney general on Wednesday sued the six largest U.S. and Japanese automakers for damages related to greenhouse gas emissions. The federal lawsuit alleges that emissions from their vehicles have harmed Californians’ health, damaged the environment and cost the state millions of dollars to combat their effects.
“It’s part of a strategy to address global warming,” Attorney General Bill Lockyer told The Associated Press in a telephone interview. “The goal of this one is to hold these automobile manufacturers accountable for the monies taxpayers are spending to address these harms.”
Tags: greenhouse gases, global warming, california lawsuit
Honda Civic Type R
September 20th, 2006
After months and months of teaser shots and concept photos, Honda UK finally unveiled its production-spec Civic Type R. Is Honda’s latest hot hatch worthy of the “Type R” moniker, or has the Civic become too bloated for its own good?
We’re decidedly split down the middle. You see, the original EK-chassis Civic Type R was an unbridled race machine. It was built for the race circuit first and city streets second. Type R buyers didn’t need (or want) things like air conditioning, power seats or a boomin’ sound system; Type R buyers just wanted to go fast around the race track.
Tags: civic type r, type r, honda type r, civic, honda civic