Automotive

Honda Performance Development Unveils CR-V Hybrid Racer: “An INDYCAR Wolf in CR-V Clothing”

Published

2 years ago

March 6, 2023

Daily News Staff

TORRANCE, Calif.

Demonstration vehicle combines HPD INDYCAR drivetrain, racing suspension,Firestone high-performance tires and Honda CR-V Hybrid bodywork
Features 2024 Honda INDYCAR hybrid power unit technology
CR-V Hybrid Racer to debut at Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg

While hybrid power units officially debut in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES in 2024, race fans and car enthusiasts alike will be treated to a “sneak preview” of the incoming technology with the debut of the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer at next month’s season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

“This project vehicle is an INDYCAR ‘beast’ in Honda CR-V ‘sheep’s clothing’,” said David Salters, president and technical director for Honda Performance Development, the North American racing arm of American Honda and Acura. “The CR-V Hybrid Racer is our ‘rolling electrified laboratory’, to investigate where the talented men and women of HPD and Honda could go with electrification, hybrid technology and 100% renewable fuels. It epitomizes Honda’s fun-to-drive ethos, showcases electrification and it just rocks our car culture roots and racing heritage! We present the CR-V Hybrid Racer – aka ‘The HPD Beast’!”

Conceived and designed by the engineers at Honda Performance Development (HPD) in California and designers from the North America Auto Design Division (NAAD) of American Honda; then built at Honda Automotive Development Center (ADC) in Ohio by the Honda of America Racing Team (HART); the CR-V Hybrid Racer places a 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged, electrified Honda V6 INDYCAR power unit and transmission under 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid bodywork to create the “rolling laboratory” for the continued development of electrified technology by Honda and HPD.

The CR-V Hybrid Racer runs on Shell’s 100% renewable race fuel; and features world-leading Skeleton Supercapacitors and Empel MGU hybrid motor technology.

The Chromoly steel tube chassis of the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer is clothed in suitably “hybrid” bodywork designed by NAAD. From the beltline up, the Hybrid Racer utilized a standard production sixth-generation CR-V steel body, including the glass windshield, windows and even the sunroof. The lower half is of carbon-composite construction, incorporating a massive front splitter and louvered, flared fenders. An equally large rear wing and butterfly half-cut doors on either side for the driver and passenger complete the bodywork.

“When the Design Studio learned about this project, we had already established a great relationship with HPD through other projects, including the ACURA ARX-06,” said Dave Marek, executive creative director. “So this was – pardon the pun – ‘Right in our wheelhouse’. It became a ‘what if?’ of keep the CRV as is, but add some serious attitude with parts indicative of an Indy car. Then it was back to my childhood of never building model cars right out of the box, by manipulating areas with DTM or Japanese Super GT cars in mind. I basically mocked up the idea in 3D then our amazing Digital Modelers made it work.”

The finished Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer is clothed in a one-of-a-kind wrap, designed by Lili Melikian, senior exterior designer. The eye-catching design contains a variety of “easter eggs” including ghosted images of the powertrain and INDYCAR SERIES circuits.

“The graphics were inspired by the hybrid powertrain, radiating from Honda Hybrid Blue to Honda Racing Red to symbolize the duality of the drivetrain,” Melikian explained. “While the ‘speed squirkles’ add a dynamic fun layer and showcase the playful side of Power of Dreams. Throughout the wrap, we have also sprinkled easter eggs like ghosted outlines of Honda-sponsored tracks and an overhead view of the engine that powers the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer.”

While under development, the project carried the appropriate code name “The Beast”, with looks reminiscent of the silhouette GT racing and Group B rally cars of the 1980s and ‘90s. But the technology under the skin is strictly 21st century.

The Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer strengthens the connections between HPD, the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and Honda passenger vehicles; creates additional awareness around the new INDYCAR hybrid powertrain coming in 2024; showcases the fun and power available from Honda electrified powertrains; and spotlights the innovation, creativity and capabilities of both HPD and Honda Automotive Development Center.

Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer Public Appearances
The Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer will make its public debut March 3-5 at the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Florida. The unique vehicle will be on display and making on-track demonstrations at multiple INDYCAR events, including the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach (April 14-16); the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix (April 28-30); the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio (June 30- July 2); the Honda Indy Toronto (July 14-16); the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix in Nashville (August 4-6); the Grand Prix of Portland (September 1-3); and the season-concluding Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey (September 8-10).

In addition to INDYCAR race weekends, the CR-V Hybrid Racer will make additional appearances at select events throughout 2023.

Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer Specifications

Powertrain

Honda HI23TT 2.2-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engine
Borg Warner EFR7163 turbochargers
McLaren Applied Technologies Tag 400i Engine Control Unit
Drive-by-wire controlled port throttle
Shell 100% renewable race fuel
Driver-activated Empel electric motor generator unit
Skeleton super capacitor energy storage system
XTRAC six-speed transmission; Mega-Line Assisted paddle-shift

Chassis and Bodywork

Chromoly tube frame chassis
New, 6th generation Honda CR-V Hybrid bodywork from beltline up
Standard Honda CR-V Hybrid windshield and greenhouse
Custom carbon fiber lower bodywork incorporating flared fenders
Butterfly half-cut doors provide access for driver and passenger
Radiator adapted by HPD from the Dallara IR-18 Indy car
Clamshell rear bodywork to display power unit and drivetrain
Custom downforce-producing front splitter and rear wing

Suspension

Front suspension from HPD-developed Acura NSX GT-3 Evo22
Rear suspension adapted from Dallara IR-18 Indy car
Brembo 380mm front brakes from Acura NSX GT-3 Evo22
Brembo 355mm custom rear brakes adapted to Dallara IR-18 suspension
Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 Ultra-High Performance Summer Tires
Front tires 285/35-20; Rear tires a massive 305/35-20
2Elle Engineering 20×10.5 Front and 20×11 Rear two-piece alloy wheels

About Honda Performance Development
Honda Performance Development, Inc. (HPD), has a rich heritage creating, manufacturing, and supporting Honda Racing and Acura Motorsports customers since 1993. From pinnacle racing in INDYCAR and IMSA Sports Cars to commercial racing programs, HPD powers the dreams of professional and amateur racers from age 4 to 40+. HPD is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and leads all of the Honda and Acura high-performance racing programs in North America.

HPD specializes in the design and development of competition powertrains, chassis and performance parts, as well as technical and race support. HPD offers parts and race support to Honda and Acura amateur and professional motorsports racers, and is continually expanding its palette of racing programs that make Honda racing products available to all racing styles, from karting and Quarter Midgets to the highest levels of pro racing. Learn more at https://hpd.honda.com.

About Honda Automotive Development Center
Honda began establishing research and development operations in America in 1975, today conducting R&D activities at 21 facilities across the country responsible for creating advanced products and technologies that provide new value to Honda and Acura customers. Honda conducts all phases of product development in the U.S., from market and technology research and styling through engineering design to prototype fabrication and testing, local parts procurement and support for mass production preparation. With major R&D facilities in California, Ohio, and North Carolina, Honda’s U.S. associates are engaged in the development and testing of Honda and Acura automobiles, Honda powersports and power equipment products, and also play a lead role in the development of leading-edge safety, driver-assistive and environmental technologies. Learn more at http://www.hondaresearch.com/.

About Honda
Honda offers a full line of clean, safe, fun and connected vehicles sold through more than 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. The award-winning Honda lineup includes the Civic and Accord, along with the HR-V, CR-V, Passport and Pilot sport utility vehicles, the Ridgeline pickup and the Odyssey minivan. Honda’s electrified vehicle lineup includes the Accord hybrid, CR-V hybrid, and, in the future, Civic hybrid. The Honda Prologue SUV, Honda’s first volume battery-electric vehicle, will join the lineup in 2024.

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for over 40 years and currently operates 18 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2022, more than 99% of all Honda vehicles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, with more than two-thirds made in America, using domestic and globally sourced parts. More information about Honda is available in the Digital Fact Book.

Source: Honda

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News

Nissan Reduces Pricing for 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder: A Commitment to Value?

Published

4 days ago

April 6, 2025

Rod Washington

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In a move that signifies its dedication to customer satisfaction and value, Nissan has announced significant reductions in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for two of its most popular models, the 2025 Rogue and 2025 Pathfinder. This strategic decision comes at a time when many consumers are navigating a challenging car-buying landscape, making affordability a key factor in their purchasing decisions.

Lower Prices for Greater Accessibility

The pricing adjustments span across all grades for both the Rogue and Pathfinder, reflecting Nissan’s commitment to ensuring that more customers can access quality vehicles without straining their budget. With rising costs affecting many households, these reductions are not just a reactive measure but a proactive step in continuing to provide exceptional value.

The 2025 Rogue, known for its versatility and efficient performance, will now appeal even more to families and individuals alike who prioritize both style and functionality in their vehicles. Meanwhile, the Pathfinder, a reliable and spacious SUV, caters to those needing extra room for travel, adventures, or daily commutes.

Why This Matters

For many buyers, feeling secure about their investment in a vehicle is paramount, especially when purchasing in today’s economic climate. By lowering the MSRP, Nissan aims to make the Rogue and Pathfinder not only more accessible but also more appealing as options in the competitive SUV market.

The decision to reduce prices aligns with Nissan’s larger strategy to maintain its customer-centric approach, fostering long-term relationships with buyers by ensuring they receive value for their investment.

What to Expect

As detailed in Nissan’s recent press release, prospective buyers can look forward to more competitive pricing as they explore their options. The enhanced value proposition of the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder aims to provide customers with quality vehicles that meet their needs without compromising on features or reliability.

While specific pricing details were not fully disclosed in the press release, interested customers are encouraged to visit their local dealerships or check the official Nissan website for the latest updates and MSRP listings.

Conclusion

With the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder, Nissan is not just reducing prices; it’s reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, quality vehicles for all. By prioritizing affordability, Nissan continues to lead the way in understanding and addressing the needs of its customers in a rapidly changing market.

Stay updated on further developments and insights as Nissan continues to innovate and respond to the needs of car buyers everywhere. Whether you’re in the market for a spacious family SUV or a versatile crossover, Nissan’s latest offerings provide a compelling reason to consider these models.

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Automotive

The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier

Exciting news! The Nissan Frontier has been crowned the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” at the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge! Manufactured in Canton and powered by cutting-edge technology, this remarkable vehicle showcases top-notch craftsmanship and innovation. Proud to celebrate our local talent! #NissanFrontier #CoolestThing #MississippiMakers #Innovation

Published

5 days ago

April 5, 2025

Rod Washington

2025 Nissan Frontier. Image Credit: Nissan Motors

CANTON, Miss. – The Nissan Frontier has earned the prestigious title of the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” by winning the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge, an event organized by the Mississippi Manufacturers Association. This accolade highlights the Frontier’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovative features that set it apart in the competitive automotive market.

Manufactured at Nissan’s state-of-the-art facility in Canton, Mississippi, the Frontier showcases the dedication and expertise of the skilled workforce in the region. Each vehicle is meticulously assembled, combining quality engineering with contemporary design to meet the needs of today’s drivers.

Powering the Frontier are robust engines built at Nissan’s powertrain plant in Decherd, Tennessee, further adding to the vehicle’s impressive performance and reliability. The collaboration between these two locations reflects Nissan’s commitment to supporting local economies while producing high-quality vehicles that American customers have come to love.

The recognition of the Nissan Frontier as the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” is not just a win for Nissan; it underscores the rich manufacturing heritage of the state and the remarkable talent within its workforce. As Nissan continues to innovate and evolve, the Frontier stands as a testament to what can be achieved when craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology.

With this accolade, the Nissan Frontier solidifies its place as a top choice for adventure enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, proving that great things can indeed come from Mississippi.

Link to the Nissan Press Release: The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier

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Consumer Corner

Cost-Efficient Car Detailing at Home

Published

4 weeks ago

March 12, 2025

Daily News Staff

(Family Features) Having your car professionally detailed is likely to set you back a chunk of change, but with the right supplies and a little spare time, you can get similar results at home.

Whether you’re washing away winter grime or just giving your ride some overdue attention, follow these steps to get your vehicle in tip-top shape.

Assess your vehicle’s condition. If there’s a specific problem you need to address, such as stains or excessive insect buildup on your front bumper, those are areas you’ll want to focus your time, energy and budget.

Purchase the necessary supplies. A car cleaning kit could simplify the shopping process, but you may need to supplement with additional items, such as a spot treater, to achieve the best results. The essentials include a sturdy bucket, washing mitt, soft bristle brush, soft rags, a dust rag, automotive soap, glass cleaner, a vinyl or interior-safe cleanser, vacuum and wax, if you wish.

Empty the vehicle. Removing all your personal possessions provides a blank slate for cleaning and prevents you from having to work around or worry about damaging your belongings. Also remove any elements of the vehicle you may want to clean separately, such as floor mats, console inserts and other removable pieces.

Tackle the interior. Start by removing debris from crevices and wiping away dust and other gunk. Then, with the initial layer of mess removed, go back and wipe down all surfaces using a cleanser. You can also clean the interior windows at this stage, and be sure to wipe down the console, especially if you have a touchscreen that is covered with fingerprints.

Vacuum thoroughly. Using a small vacuum or hose with strong suction, pay special attention to high-traffic areas and spaces where trash and debris tend to settle, such as between the seat and console. The floorboards will likely need the most attention, but don’t overlook the seats, and especially the area where the seat and back meet as this crevice can trap a great deal of dirt.

Clean the floor mats. Chances are good your floor mats rival the exterior for the dirt and grime they accumulate. Depending on how heavily soiled they are, and especially if they’re carpet-style mats, you may want to shampoo them after a deep vacuuming to remove stubborn stains.

Return belongings to the interior. Before you add everything back into your vehicle, take time to wipe down items and sort out any unnecessary clutter. It’s a good time to reorganize your storage areas to be sure the items you use frequently are in easy reach. You can also replenish supplies such as facial tissue and hand sanitizer.

Wash the exterior. Follow the instructions on the product’s label to wash your automobile’s exterior. Pay attention to special requirements such as allowing time for a bug remover to soak. In general, start with a rinse, followed by scrubbing with a mitt then an all-over rinse. Use a chamois towel or other drying cloth to avoid water spots.

Add finishing touches. If you’re using wax or planning on specialty treatments like tire cleaning, those will be among your final steps. Last but not least, clean the exterior windows with glass cleaner to remove streaks and leave them sparkling.

Find more practical vehicle maintenance tips at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com