I see in the April Consumer Reports that Honda is bringing out a Hybrid Accord for 2005. A V6 no less. The Honda ICE-Electric use is opposite the Toyota model - meaning the electric boosts when the ICE can't handle the load. Can someone tell me the logic of putting it out in a v6 hybrid? When would it ever use the electic motor? They claim Civic like MPG, but they also have a system that cuts out 3 cylinders when they aren't needed. It seems that would be the major cause of improved MPG.
Displacement on demand has been tried before. GM, in it's normal inability to engineer a straw, let alone an automobile, fouled it up. All the Accord system is, is their IMA system backed to a V6 engine. The electric motor will allow the engine to run at lower revs, helping fuel economy in that aspect. The displacement on demand system will help on the highay. IMO, it still falls far short of the Toyota system.
But, it will be better geared for the mass audience, as will the new hybrids from Toyota / Lexus. Cars that have similar performance and size to what people want and expect will be an easier sell. With more hybrids hitting the street getting real world 30 to 40 MPG instead of their non-hybrid version's 18 to 30 MPG will be a significant improvement, particularly coupled with emission reduction. As the technology advances, we should see a lot more acceptance.
It's worth noting that the 4 cylinder engine in the Civic Hybrid can also shut down cylinders (up to 3) for improved milage/efficiency. That's one Civic feature that I wish the Prius did have!
