“Earth Dreams Technology” is Honda’s next generation set of technological advancements aimed at enhancing both driving performance and fuel efficiency using advanced environmental technologies. It is a series of measures in which efficiency of internal combustion components including engine, and transmission, as well as electric-powered motor technology, is further improved.
As part of this grand scheme, Honda announced in November 2011 the newly developed 2.4L gasoline engine based on DOHC and VTEC technologies, that employs VTC and direct injection technology and implements extensive friction reduction measures. Standalone engine features 5% improvements in fuel efficiency and output as well as a 10% improvement in maximum torque compared to the previous engine.
At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show Honda will have on display the new 1.6 liter diesel engine that will be the first engine from this series for Europe. The lightest engine in its class, delivering sub 100g/km CO2 levels, the engine will offer a class-leading balance of fuel economy and performance.
Why is the the 1.6 liter diesel engine special?
By optimizing engine rigidity and combustion pressure, an aluminum open deck for the cylinder block could be used. This in addition to the weight reduction in the reciprocating sliding section makes the 1.6L the lightest in its class.
The 1.6L is a replacement to the outgoing 2.2L engine doing duty in the Honda Civic in Europe. By downsizing the cubic capacity, mechanical friction in each section is reduced to the extent that a friction level equivalent to present gasoline engine models was achieved.
Optimized thermal management system thanks to improvements in the cooling system reduces CO2 output by over 15%.
Employment of a compact, high-efficiency turbocharger, for increased output to keep the enthusiast driver happy.
This new smaller diesel engine will first be mounted on Honda’s new Civic and will be launched in late 2012. This 1596 cc engine is rated at a peak power of 88kW (120PS) at 4000rpm and torque of 300 Nm at 2000rpm.
The possibilities of a diesel powered Civic in India is mind boggling. Of course, the Civic in the UK is not the Civic sold in India, but rather a hot hatch that competes with the likes of the Ford Focus. The chances of seeing this diesel mill in the new CR-V , if and when it comes to India, are on the higher side.