Honda Outlines Three New Hybrids

Honda Motor Co. confirms it will roll out a trio of new hybrid systems over the next three years in Japan, Europe and the U.S.

The first and simplest of the powertrains will be a lighter and more efficient version of Honda's existing one-motor hybrid system. The company hopes an advanced electric motor, better battery performance and a new transmission will enable small cars equipped with the system to lead rivals in fuel economy.

A more powerful two-motor hybrid system is set to debut in the Accord plug-in due in 2014. The powertrain will include a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine that makes 137 hp, a 124-kW electric motor and a 6.7-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Honda says the combined system output is 196 hp greater than that of the Chevrolet Volt (196 hp), Prius plug-in (134 hp) and expected output of the Ford Fusion Energi plug-in (188 hp).

Honda's most powerful system will use three electric motors: one within a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and two more powering the rear wheels. Dubbed the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, the powertrain will be used in the company's new Acura RLX Sport Hybrid due next year and the NSX supercar in about 2015.