Over the past two decades, Honda has been a worldwide leader in developing exceptional vehicles that reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. If you want to know more about the Civic Hybrid, you are not alone. Below are answers to our most frequently asked questions.

 

To check answers click on the questions.

 

1) How does the Hybrid work, what does Hybrid mean?

Honda started development work on their Hybrid system in 1990. The Civic Hybrid uses the Honda Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) technology in which the internal combustion engine is directly connected to and assisted by an electric motor. The system itself is compact and as a result of the electric motor being directly connected, a smaller battery and inverters can be used. During acceleration, the electric motor will assist the engine, providing greater fuel economy and lower emissions. As soon as the brakes are applied to slow the vehicle down, the engine’s four cylinders are shut off allowing energy to be captured instead of wasted to re-charge the battery. When the car comes to a stop, the engine switches off, conserving energy. It re-starts automatically as soon as the brake pedal is released. One of the new features of Honda’s new Civic Hybrid system is that during low-speed cruising, it is possible for all 4 cylinders to be shut off and the Civic Hybrid to cruise on the electric motor alone.

 

2) Do the Hybrid batteries need charging?

The Civic Hybrid system has been developed so you don’t have to do anything different. The battery is automatically charged when the car is slowing, travelling downhill or braking. The vehicle is able to re-capture energy which is normally lost through friction when braking and use this energy to re-charge the battery. Remember, when the battery is not in use it’s being recharged by the electric motor. There is an override in the system that means you will always have at least 20% power in the battery. So you’ll find there’s no need to plug your car in to charge at the end of the day.

 

3) Are servicing costs in line with a normal car?

Honda offers the customer a standard warranty period of 2 years or 40,000 km which ever is earlier. In addition Honda covers the Civic Hybrid for an additional 2 years or 40,000 km extended warranty through the ‘Exclusive Honda Care Programme’. To top it up Honda is also providing to all Civic Hybrids the ‘Unique Hybrid Care Programme’ which takes care of maintenance of the car up to 4 years or 80,000 km. Which means that you have to just sit back and relax.

 

4) Does it drive like a normal car? / While cranking the engine why is the feeling different from a normal car?

Yes, it drives just like a normal car. We’ve used the same transmission system that can be found in the City – CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission). CVT is like an automatic in that you don’t change gear and do not have a clutch. CVT will select the optimum range for the speed and revs, so maximising fuel efficiency in all driving conditions. When the IMA battery is fully charged the engine is started by the IMA battery. Therefore the feel while starting is very smooth.

 

5) Is the battery component safe? / I also understand that high voltage current flows in the car’s circuits. Is there any electrical hazard?

No hazard at all, the battery is totally safe. The battery is housed behind the rear-seats and has been reduced in size to that of a slim suitcase to ensure it doesn’t interfere with passenger comfort. It is housed in a strong metal case, and has been tested to withstand both rear and side impacts. The unit is a ‘floating structure’ which means there is no risk at all to the occupants, even in a collision. The electrical circuits have some cables which carry high voltage current. However the car is designed with adequate safety measures including a manual control which can be switched off in case of any eventuality.

 

6) If I run out of fuel, can I drive on Electric power only?

No. You cannot drive solely on the electric motor; the Civic Hybrid relies primarily on its petrol engine. However, if the electric motor becomes inoperative, the gasoline engine will function on its own.

 

7) What is the idle stop feature in the Civic Hybrid? Will the AC continue to work?

When the vehicle stops, the IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) or the electric motor’s idle-stop feature temporarily shuts off the petrol engine to save fuel and minimize emissions. The system restarts the petrol engine. On Civic Hybrid equipped with the CVT, the idle-stop feature is engaged when the brake pedal is depressed and the car has come to a complete stop. Once the brake pedal is released, or on moving the gear shift lever from D to R or S, the engine will restart. This system will come into play if you brake from a speed higher than 12 kmph. In case you are moving in bumper-to-bumper traffic at speeds lower that 12 kmph, the engine may not shut off on braking. The AC will continue to function as it will draw power from the battery pack. However it is advisable not to use AC for long time when engine is shut off. The engine shut off can be identified by the tachometer. Long usage of AC in this condition may lead to battery discharge.

 

8) Is there any problem that I may encounter while driving in waterlogged areas?

For all cars – any car of any brand – it is recommended not to drive on roads where water is deep. Driving through deep water will cause damage to the engine and electrical equipment and the car may break down. The same applies to the Civic Hybrid also.

 

9) Does the Civic Hybrid require any special kind of fuel?

The Civic Hybrid uses regular unleaded fuel.

 

10) What precautions should I undertake if I leave the Civic Hybrid without use for a long time?

Hybrid storage for less than 1 months does not create any problems. If you plan to store your Hybrid for a longer period, it is a good idea to have the car started up and run at 3500 rpm for 8 to 10 minutes every 30 days. Also confirm the full charge status on the instrument cluster after this.

 

11) How do I tow the car in case the situation calls for towing?

If your car needs to be towed be sure to contact a professional towing service. Using a flat bed transporter or wheel lift truck is the accepted method of towing. Additionally Honda is providing 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the ‘Exclusive Honda Care Programme’. In case of a breakdown call at: 18001033121 ( Toll Free) or 0124 4263121)

 

12) What is the fuel consumption?

The Civic Hybrid is one of the best fuel performers when it comes to fuel economy. However, fuel efficiency varies significantly based on driving conditions, road conditions, weather, accessory use and terrain. Fuel economy can get affected by a number of different factors including tyre pressure, excessive weight e.g. a full boot, increased wind resistance e.g. roof racks, open windows.

 

13) Why don’t you do a hatchback version? / When will you do a hatchback version?

Honda is committed to providing fuel efficient and environmentally friendly engine technology to everyone. The Civic Hybrid was therefore developed in the global preference of body shape – 4 door saloon. As the Hybrid system is developed further and becomes more compact, it may be possible to introduce it into other body styles.