Honda's CEO, Takanobu Ito, has revealed big plans for the company, designed to drive growth until 2017. Along with three new models a raft of green technology is also on the horizon.
The most exciting news comes in the form of a new Civic Type-R for the European market. Scheduled for launch in 2015, the popular hot hatch should come equipped with much of the technology developed in the World Touring Car Championship. Using this, Honda is looking to use the Type-R to set the benchmark in terms of handling and performance in the hot hatch segment; and aims to make it the fastest front-wheel drive vehicle to lap the Nürburgring.
Sticking with fast machinery, a new super sports motorbike is also planned. Similar to the Type-R, the new model is likely to use technology from Honda's MotoGP bikes and is 'seeking to deliver the same passion and excitement that the VFR750R gave riders when it was launched in 1987.'
A new compact SUV is also on the cards, presumably taking over where the HR-V left off.
Hybrid systems look to be a major part of the plan for Honda over the coming years with three different systems in mind. Its one-motor layout currently in use will be further developed with the aim of creating the best fuel economy among hybrid vehicles, with a new two-motor system being developed for mid-size cars. A three-motor system is already underway as well, dubbed the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive). This is planned for use in the new Honda NSX.
Finally, Honda is talking of launching a fuel cell electric vehicle for Europe, continuing the work the Clarity model started when it was launched in 2008.
But, the thing that's bothering us is the lack of any design or prototype shots from Honda; especially when it comes to the Civic Type-R. If the Type-R is due for launch in 2015, we would've expected something in the way of a teaser shot or some. Shame.