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Honda has announced a new Ecological
Drive Assist System to help drivers achieve better fuel economy. The
technology will feature on the new Insight family hybrid car, which goes
on sale in spring 2009.
It will be the world’s first system to
combine three different functions to enhance fuel economy: an
ECON Mode which controls engine, transmission and other
powertrain components to support more fuel-efficient driving; a
guidance function that helps drivers become more fuel efficient
behind the wheel using the colour of the speedometer display; and a
scoring function that provides instant and long term
feedback on driving techniques, after each journey.
Honda developed the Ecological Drive
Assist System to help its customers improve their fuel economy in real
world conditions. The scoring function provides cumulative, long-term
feedback through graphic ‘leaves’, which ‘grow’ over time as drivers
learn and then implement a smooth driving style that boosts fuel
economy. The visual nature of the scoring function display makes it easy
and enjoyable for drivers to improve the efficiency of their driving
skills over time.
“Hybrid technology delivers great fuel
economy and low emissions, but these can both be affected by driving
style,” says John Kingston, Government Affairs and Environment Manager
at Honda (UK). “This new package encourages greener, more efficient
driving, in a fun and engaging way.”
The technology will further boost the
appeal of the Insight, which is due to hit UK showrooms in the spring
next year. Honda has already announced that the 5-door family car will
be significantly lower in price to any other hybrid on the market,
making petrol-electric technology accessible to more people.
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