Honda Civic Hybrid

The Honda Civic Hybrid is a hybrid version of the Honda Civic sedan.

For the 2003 model of the Civic, Honda added a continuously variable transmission and a Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system similar to that of the Insight, creating a fuel efficient hybrid sedan. Honda Civic Hybrid is an assist hybrid. Officially, the electric motor isn't able to drive the car itself but provides useful assistance to the gasoline engine during heavy load situations like accelerating.

Technology

• 1.3 L i-DSI lean-burn internal-combustion engine with VTEC Cylinder Cut-off System, which allows up to three cylinders to cease operation during deceleration. This decreases friction losses generated by engine aspiration and allows more effective regeneration of energy.
• 10 kW (13.4 hp) brushless, permanent magnet assist motor, which functions as a generator during deceleration and loads batteries
• 120 Nickel-metal hydride batteries with 6.0 Ah capacity
• Multimatic S continuously variable or 5-speed manual transmission (latter available only in USA)
• SULEV or optional AT-PZEV certification by the California Air Resources Board (CARB)
• Low rolling resistance tires and regenerative braking
• Electric power-steering
• Does not need to be plugged in

Driving

• Driving style seems to have a larger effect on MPG than it would in a non-hybrid Civic.
• Power consuming accessories, such as air conditioning, also take a larger toll on fuel efficiency than they do in a non-hybrid vehicle.
• For maximum efficiency with a manual transmission, shift as early as practicable, and floor the gas. This results in great electric assist, combined with increased efficiency in the gasoline engine. Because the combined torque peak is at 1500 rpm, it is practical to shift at 1500-2000 rpm. This is more efficient than a part-throttle acceleration, shifting at a higher rpm.

Awards

The Civic Hybrid's engine won the International Engine of the Year "1 liter to 1.4 liter" size category award for three years straight from 2002 through 2004 as well as the "Best Fuel Economy" category for 2003 and 2004. It has won Motor Trend's 2006 Car of the Year award, along with the rest of the Civic range.