Improvements by Honda to the stop-start strategy of the Insight should make it more economical, the firm claims.
Changes have meant that that its engine can be switched off for up to three times as long as before.
The previous system had been programmed to assume worst-case humidity for obscure patenting reasons – rain, five people on board, tropical conditions – and this limited the ‘stop’ duration to only 30sec. Now, it can remain off for up to 90sec in eco mode. The same strategy has also been applied to the Jazz hybrid.
Read more on the changes to the Honda Insight
The changes to the stop-start system are part of wider changes to the Insight, mainly brought on in response to negative feedback of its ride and handling.
Changes include adjustments to the recoil rate of the springs, a change of the rear camber angles and alterations to the V-shape rear suspension brace and adjusting mounts. Honda says these changes “promise to deliver improved ride, handling and stability”.
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Re: Honda improves Insight's economy
I'm inclined to give them the benefit of the doubt. According to the 'confidential' section of last week's mag the original stop-start settings were made 'for obscure patenting reasons'.
Re: Honda improves Insight's economy
Its good to see Honda developing the car. Strange we havent seen a new sub 100g/km figure quoted yet. surely they cant miss the target again can they. The article does say they have already added this longer stop feature to the Jazz yet that is 104g/km. One thought is that there isnt a stop of more than 30 seconds on the official test so the official figures wouldnt change even if the car uses less fuel in the real world.
Yet the orginal Insight would turn the engine off for an almost infinite time, only kicking back into action when the engine started to cool, so why restrict the car to 30 or even 90 seconds?
I still think the biggest failing of this car is not offering a manual option. Why not introduce a second model fitted with the 1.5 engine and manual box from the CR-Z
Re: Honda improves Insight's economy
Begs the question why can't Honda get it right first time these days. The company consistently misses fuel / CO2 targets and can't sort out a decent ride/handling compromise (S2000, Jazz and Insight). Fixing these problems, if indeed they have been fixed, half way through the model cycle is simply too late. Come on Honda, we know that you can produce really great products, let's see some more of them.