History was made during the 2013 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach when Takuma Sato became the first Japanese driver to take home victory in an IndyCar race. The former F1 driver was driving a car powered by Honda's HI13RT turbocharged Indy V6 engine. Sato took the lead after the first pit stop and finished five seconds ahead of Graham Rahal, with the first four finishers all using Honda powerplants.

In addition to Sato's finish, Honda Performance Development-equipped teams also won the LMP1 and LMP2 classes in the American Le Mans Series the day before Sato's triumph. It couldn't have gone much better for Honda Racing and Honda Performance Development at Long Beach. The victories were a perfect capper to HPD's celebration of its 20th anniversary in California. 

Also new for Honda Development Performance is the appointment of Indy legend Gil de Ferran as the technical consultant and advisor.  The two-time Indy Car Series champion had a period of retirement, but returned to HPD in 2008 for the American Le Mans Series competition. De Ferran had various roles with Honda in the past, including driver, sporting director, and other management positions.  In whatever role he has played for them over the years, Honda believes its relationship with de Ferran has been a successful and effective one. So his latest appointment comes as no surprise .  

 Just like with the previous NSX model, the anticipation for the all-new NSX is already building to a fever pitch, with Honda's British operations already receiving more than 20 deposits for the car. That's right, people who are balling out of control in the U.K. have already plunked down deposits on a car that hasn't even seen the final production stage and has yet to get a price tag, which is estimated to be somewhere around $130,000 to start. Must be nice! 

The NSX, which will be branded as an Acura here in the U.S. but as a Honda elsewhere in the world, is being engineered in America and will be built in Ohio. Production cars are expected sometime in 2015.

If you haven't already heard, Honda's newest supercar will be powered by a mid-mounted, direct-injected V6 engine paired with Honda's Sport Hybrid SH-AWD or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.  Honda ditched the RWD system for a new hybrid all-wheel-drive platform that can generate negative or positive torque while cornering. 

In the interior, Honda kept it simple. Clutter is minimized so the driver is able to focus on the experience alone.  The exterior will feature a low and wide stance with clean and modern edgy details.  What do you think of the NSX Concept? Would you put a deposit on it? 

 One of the most exciting, historic, and unique motorsports events in the world, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb was first held back in 1916. For this year's climb, Honda is going big at the annual event and is even coming with a last-generation Acura NSX in tow.

Honda is aiming to set a record for the number of classes entered by a single manufacturer.  The company will campaign vehicles in multiple classes for an overall victory, including cars, motorcycles and ATVs.  A total of 10 Honda vehicles in all will be competing in the event, with one of the unquestioned stars being the Acura NSX you see here.  So far we haven't heard much about the car, but it certainly looks mean in its flat-black livery.

The legendary race, often called 'The Race to the Clouds,' is a 12.42 mile course that starts at 9,390 feet with 156 turns and ends at the Pikes Peak summit at 14,110 feet.  One of the challenges that cars face is a 30 percent power loss from the thin air at high altitude.
Be sure to visit www.ppihc.com for any news and info on the legendary race. 

 They say practice makes perfect. Something the LoveFab team didn't have much of a chance to do during qualifying rounds of the 2012 Pikes Peak International Hill climb after owner and driver Cody Loveland projected his NSX-bodied race car off the side of the mountain at 60 mph. Co-driver Tabitha Lohr dislocated four ribs and compressed her spine in the accident.

 While Lohr went to the hospital, Loveland (who was relatively unscathed) headed back to the shop to rebuild the car.  The LoveFab crew worked on it until 4 a.m. to get the engine working and the body panels back together the night before the main event.  
Come race day, team LoveFab's sole goal was to make it up to the mountain and finish. But as it turned out, many of the cars in their class also crashed or were having mechanical problems.  By the time they made it to the top, only one other car in their class had done the same -- the 2012 Palatov D4PPS driven by David Donner.  Miraculously, Lovefab managed to score second place in the unlimited class.
For the 2013 Pikes Peak event set for June 30, Loveland swapped out his old motor for a Chevy LS1 and paired it with some Garrett GT-X Turbos.  The car is called Enviate, and while it's based on a full carbon body NSX, it's an NSX in name only (LoveFab specializes in turbo kits for the original NSX).  The team will also be building a spare 1000 horsepower engine near race day. One of the problems Lovefab faced last year was the transition of running the car at sea level as opposed to the relentless uphill climb. The formula they have for the Enviate will hopefully address the issue. From the looks of the car thus far, it should be a force to be reckoned with - as long as they keep it on the tarmac. 

Check out the 2012 recap here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ICXPbivHWs

 Honda's Super GT season is off to a great start as they managed to land a one-two victory in the opening round in Okayama Japan.  Drivers Takuya Izawa and Takashi Kogure piloted the Raybrig Honda HSV-010 GT in a grueling 81-lap, two-hour showdown.  A similar HSV-010 GT finished just a half-second later, thanks to the efforts of Koudai Tsukakoshi and Toshihiro Kaneishi. 

 During the closing laps weather conditions started to change, but that didn't stop the two Hondas from chasing down and passing the race-leading Nissan GT-R. This marked the seventh victory for the HSV-010 GT program.

Honda developed the HSV-010 GT with Super GT500 regulations in mind. The car is a front engine, rear wheel drive coupe equipped with a normally aspirated 3.4-liter Honda V8 engine developing 500 hp. You can stay up-to-date with the Super GT season at their website www.supergt.net .

Honda's factory racing team has put the finishing touches on its Civic World Touring Car Championship contender in advance of the 2013 season. Honda will be fielding a two-car team, with 2009 World Touring Car champ Gabriele Tarquini and seasoned vet Taigo Monteiro at the wheel.  The race-prepped Civic is powered by a special, 1.6-liter direct injection turbocharged engine with trackside support courtesy of legendary tuners Mugen.

The team, a joint effort between J.A.S. Motorsport and Honda called Honda Racing Team JAS, got its feet wet last season in the final three races of the championship, managing a podium finish in Macau. During that same race the car also achieved the second-fastest lap time. In preparation for this season's campaign, the 2013 Honda Civic WTCC car went through rigorous aerodynamics testing, spending three days in the Honda R&D wind tunnel in Tochigi, Japan.

While in development, the team also focused on driveability of the car in an effort to give Tarquini and Monteiro greater overall control over the super Civic.  Improvements were also made to the turbo, intake manifolds, and ignition systems, and AP Racing chipped in to help develop the car's custom front and rear calipers.

In addition to the other cars on the grid, Honda Racing Team JAS will be competing against Honda privateer team Zengo Motorsport from Hungary, which will have the same specifications as Honda's factory cars.
 
Honda will also be bringing something new to fans during the European rounds at the 2013 WTCC called the "Honda fan zone," designed to give diehard Honda fans increased access to the paddock and other special Honda areas. The 24-race 2013 WTCC season begins March 24 with the Race of Italy.

The editors of european car are in the process now of building this '84 911 Porsche for the 2012 SEMA Show in affiliation with eBay Motors. Working with GSR Autosport, they not only sourced the pride of German engineering, but every single last part needed exclusively on eBay Motors.

While they would love for you to vote for them, the key to this campaign is that you can be the winner. Vote for your favorite, even if it isn't the rallye inspired 911 you see here and at the same time enter to win a $5,000 Dream Garage.
Our Porsche 911 looks like it was delivered via a time machine from 1984. From the exterior to the interior, this car was in pristine condition. But its days of domesticated bliss were numbered, the team determined early on that they wanted to build the ultimate rally car.

So whether you're into rally, racing, off-road, or showcars, this competition has everything to offer so join in the fun and pick your favorite. See the entire video series now at www.builtfromebay.com.

The editors of Hot Rod, Lowrider, european car, and Four Wheeler are in the process now of building SEMA projects sourcing not only the car, but every single last part needed exclusively on eBay Motors. Best of all, you can vote for your favorite and at the same time enter to win a $5,000 Dream Garage.

The effort is BUILT from eBay® - A web series that takes four automotive magazines and their selected garages and creates a competition to showcase eBay Motors amazing selection. Each team starts with the purchase of a niche-enthusiast vehicle, and then searches out and purchases each and every part to go with them. Whether those parts be new, retro, performance or new-old-stock, these four teams are being tested to pull it off.

So whether you're into rally, racing, off-road, or showcars, this competition has everything to offer so join in the fun and pick your favorite. See the entire video series now at www.builtfromebay.com.

NOPI shows their appreciation by offering troops on active duty/active duty reserve free general admission to NOPI NATIONALS 2012 Supershow on September 22/23.

For more information, visit NOPINATIONALS.com.

On the eve of Electronic Entertainment Expo 2012 we received an exclusive invite to preview Xbox 360's hottest racing game for 2012, "Forza Horizon."

Described as an "open world action racing game" by Ralph Fulton, Design Director at Playground Games, "Forza Horizon" takes the excitement of the automotive world and combines it with the authenticity that the "Forza Motorsport" series is known for. Introducing mixed surface and dirt racing, and featuring a massive Colorado landscape that covers everything from mountain highways to dusty ting roads, "Forza Horizon" has taken the world of "Forza Motorsport" and made it bigger and more diverse than ever.

The very well anticipated drift show hit the streets of Long beach this weekend with some of the best in the industry.

The weekend was hot and full of excitement from all the commotion Formula D was bringing to the streets of Long Beach. Tire smoke and the sound of race engines at full throttle filled the streets as spectators walked toward the event. 

We manage to spot out a few Honda’s in attendance at the Formula drift show this past weekend.

The Fairplex at Pomona was the place to be this Saturday; it was full of cars, girls, and live DJ’s. As soon as the doors opened the lines were long as expected and as you walked in you were greeted by 2 lovely ladies handing out fake tattoos next to a beer pong section. All of the expect imports were there from BMW’s to Hondas and even some Mustangs located outside. Here is our coverage of the show. Enjoy!

HIN is bringing it back to where the Import show scene began. The 2012 HIN Tour includes 12 events that include a Nightclub Stage, Model search, Miss HIN LA, and GoGo Competition. Come out and enjoy a night of full of girls, music and of course the cars.

Some of the incredible cars that will be making an appearance at the show include: High-End Auto Concept Elite’s GTR Skyline (WekFest SF 2012 Best of Show), Randy Riggs R-Rydes Infiniti G35 (AutoCon Best of Show), Jamari Whitside’s Subaru WRX (HIN LA Best of Show). Plus HIN continues the tradition of attracting the best of the best cars at every show with more than 300 of the top tuners in the country and from around the Southern California area competing for cash prizes and most importantly bragging rights.

Venue: The FAIRPLEX – Pomona

When: Saturday March 10th, 2012

Hours: 3pm to 10pm

TICKETS:

$25 per individual or $20 for groups of 4 or more

Enter the code TUNER for $5.00 off tickets

https://xdc.webconnex.com/fairplextickets2012

For more information please visit hotimportnights.com

High performance synthetic lubricant manufacturer Royal Purple recently expanded its Porter, Texas production facility.  Six new 35,000 gallon blend tanks were added.   According to Royal Purple Production manager Leigh McClellan, the additional tanks were added in order to help Royal Purple to stay ahead of its double digit sales growth

.

'We've see increased demand for both industrial and consumer markets products', says McClellan.   "New tankage was necessary for us to continue JIT production".  Royal Purple will also install two new packaging lines, doubling production's packaging capacity.

This year Royal Purple has introduced several new products to the automotive retail market including the new High Performance Street (HPS) series of high performance automotive motor oils, its new High Performance Marine (HPM) line of lubricants, a 0W-20 API SN-licensed motor oil and a new Racing ATF.  

Royal Purple manufactures synthetic products for numerous industrial and consumer needs. More information about its products is available at www.royalpurple.com. 

One of the leading aftermarket suspension manufacturers, TEIN is proud to announce the international launch of the new Street Basis suspension line. Packed with features such as revised internals, a ZT coated damper sleeve, Delrin thrust washer, and ride height adjustment, the Street Basis combines "made in Japan" quality with a low starting MSRP of just $700.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1aWlwWQy9A

To coincide with the launch, TEIN has released two originally produced videos. The first is a photoshoot on wheels, combining beautiful driving footage with emotive narration and crisp backgrounds. Using popular street car platforms, the video takes tuning car enthusiasts from the urban cityscape to the curves of mountain roads.

Produced simultaneously in English, Japanese, and Chinese, the full length Street Basis video speaks to both potential buyer and educated dealer alike. The piece features detailed product shots and information on the Street Basis' construction, quality, design, and features. Using actual TEIN R&D staff and showcasing their in-house prototyping process, the video takes viewers through the Street Basis' design and testing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0hNtYI7S0E

 Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. announces the sponsorship of Strikeforce™ Women’s Welterweight Champion, Miesha “Takedown” Tate as a Team Toyo® Athlete.  With the Toyo Tires® logo on her fight shorts, Tate recently defeated Marloes Coenen live on SHOWTIME® to win the championship.

 Tate is a native of Tacoma, Washington, and was the 2010 WMMA (Women’s Mixed Martial Arts) Fighter of the Year.  Associated with Team Alpha Male, the 25-year old, 5-foot 6-inch Tate fights in the 135 lb. weight class and has a background in wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu.  In addition to wearing the Toyo Tires® logo on her fight shorts, Tate will also promote the Toyo Tires brand through appearances and additional marketing efforts.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of the Toyo Tires team and I am looking forward to representing Team Toyo!” said Miesha Tate.

“We are elated Toyo Tires was a part of Miesha Tate’s Strikeforce welterweight championship win,” said Stan Chen, manager of events and motorsports, Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp.  “We congratulate her on her awesome accomplishment.  Her attitude in the cage reflects our ‘Driven to Perform’ philosophy and we look forward to being a part of her future pursuits.”

To learn more about Team Toyo Athletes, and to learn about the full line of Toyo Tires products for passenger cars and light trucks, log onto www.toyotires.com.  Toyo Tires manufactures and distributes a complete line of premium replacement tires for high performance cars, luxury vehicles, light trucks and SUVs as well as tires for commercial trucks.  Connect with the community at www.facebook.com/toyotires  and www.twitter.com/toyotires.

Round 7: Title Fight Ticket Buyers Have Chance to Win Prizes

Formula DRIFT prepares for what many are anticipating as the largest event in Formula Drift history with the finale at the Toyota Speedway at Irwindale. Round 7: Title Fight ending one of the most exciting seasons to date on October 7-8. Tickets are on-sale now. 

“Round 7: Title Fight is slated to be the largest drift event in our history and we are on pace for another capacity crowd,” said Jim Liaw, president and co-founder of Formula DRIFT. “To encourage fans to purchase their tickets early and guarantee their spot at the Finale we have partnered with a few of our sponsors to give away some great prizes to lucky pre-sale ticket buyers.” 

Along with the purchase of tickets, Formula DRIFT will be holding a contest for all pre-sale ticket buyers. 

For those that purchase 2-day Reserved Grandstand Tickets, the following prizes will be raffled off:

- Twenty five (25) individuals will receive one (1) Trident mobile phone or iPad case each.

- One (1) individual will receive a Falken Tire/HPI R/C drift car

- One (1) individual will receive a set of four (4) Enkei Fujin wheels plus one (1) set of matching Nitto Tires.

For those that purchase VIP Tickets:

- One (1) individual will receive two (2) tickets to the Formula DRIFT Awards Banquet being held on October 9, 2011 with one (1) night hotel stay at the official banquet hotel. Winner must be 18 or older to qualify.

- One (1) individual will receive an $800 credit toward any set of Falken Tires redeemable at any America’s Tire / Discount Tire location. Labor costs not included.

Winners will be announced on September 26 on the Formula DRIFT website, www.formuladrift.com. Prizes have no cash value. More prizes to be announced at a later date. Each ticket purchased counts as one raffle ticket.

Tickets are available for Round 7: Title Fight on October 7-8, including reserved seating, 2-day ticket packages, and VIP tickets. Tickets can be purchased through www.formuladrift.com. Ticket prices start at $26 online. 

Take a closer look at the 7th Annual Japanese Classic Car Show at the Queen Marry in Long Beach this past Saturday September 10th. We captured some images of the old school imports along with a few Honda motorcycles.

More Features 

Versatile, fuel-efficient and fun five-door now features a quieter interior and available Bluetooth HandsFreeLink  

 The Honda Fit builds on its proven strengths for 2012 with updated styling on Fit Sport, interior upgrades on all models, and the addition of new standard and available features.

The Fit's compact size and tight turning diameter (34.4 feet, curb-to-curb) can conveniently navigate space-confined urban areas and fit in small parking spaces. Yet a roomy and versatile interior offers the convenience and cargo volume of a relatively larger vehicle. Compared to any other vehicle in the subcompact class, the five-passenger Fit provides the lowest, flattest cargo floor and the most cargo volume of 57.3 cu-ft. when the rear seats are down. Its four distinct seat configurations are designed to accommodate large objects ranging from mountain bikes to surfboards to tall houseplants.

Fit Sport exterior updates for 2012 include new designs for the front grille and bumper, black headlight bezels and a dark "machined surface" finish for the alloy wheels (replaces a painted finish appearance). The entry-model Fit retains its exclusive front fascia design and for 2012 receives body-color exterior mirrors (previously black) and updated wheel covers.

Inside, the Fit Sport interior is enhanced with dark metallic dashboard components for a unified color theme (replacing the previous gray and black theme). Fit Sport receives additional chrome accents around instrument displays. All models receive newly designed console-mounted center beverage holders along with console ambient lighting, which provide easier access and greater stability. All models also receive added sound insulation measures in the floor, front fenders and A-pillars, plus thicker front corner-window glass, to help create a quieter, more-refined cabin environment. Two new colors are available: Blue Raspberry Metallic and Orangeburst Metallic, which replace similar colors from the prior model year.

The top-of-the-line Fit Sport includes a long list of exclusive, standard features compared to the entry-model Fit. For 2012, it gains standard steering wheel-mounted audio controls for fingertip operation (previously exclusive to navigation-equipped models) and upgraded seat fabric. When equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System(tm) with Voice Recognition5, the Fit Sport now includes Bluetooth(r)1 HandsFreeLink(r) to help make hands-free telephone calls more convenient. The enhanced system also includes a Bluetooth Audio capability with compatible phones and devices.

Though the Fit has an overall exterior length of just 161.6 inches, the interior provides an impressive 90.8 cubic feet of passenger volume. There's comfortable seating for up to five passengers, and behind the rear seats, there's 20.6 cubic feet of storage space - much more than you'd find in a typical sedan. For enhanced versatility, the exclusive 60/40 split rear Magic Seat(r) offers multiple seating and cargo-carrying configurations. With its one-motion dive-down functionality, it can fold flat into the floor to maximize rear cargo volume. The Fit's interior can also be easily converted to tall object mode or long object mode based on the shape of the cargo.

The 1.5-liter, i-VTEC(r) 4-cylinder engine is tuned to deliver an engaging combination of power and fuel economy. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a five-speed automatic transmission is available. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters on Fit Sport models equipped with the available automatic transmission allow for manual gear selection.

All models are powered by a four-cylinder engine that produces 117 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 106 lb-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. When equipped with the available automatic transmission, the Fit has an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 28/35/31 miles per gallon3. The Fit Sport with the available automatic transmission has an EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy rating3 of 27/33/30 miles per gallon. All manual transmission-equipped models have an EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 27/33/29 miles per gallon3.

A sporty, refined and dynamic driving experience is provided by the front MacPherson strut suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. Fifteen- and 16-inch wheels (Fit and Fit Sport, respectively) feature 175/65 R15 84S (Fit) and 185/55 R16 83H (Fit Sport) tires. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) uses 10.3-inch ventilated discs in the front and 7.9-inch drums in the rear.

All Fit models are equipped with a wide range of standard safety equipment including Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(tm) (ACE(tm)) body structure, anti-lock brakes and more. Dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) and side-curtain airbags are also standard equipment for 2012.

Standard comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, cruise control, remote entry, a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, a USB audio interface4, an auxiliary audio input jack, MP3/WMA playback capability, Radio Data System (RDS), power windows, power mirrors, power door locks and a security system.

The Fit Sport adds or replaces: alloy wheels, an underbody aero kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights, illuminated steering wheel mounted audio controls and upgraded seat fabric. For improved audio performance, the Fit Sport audio system has a total of six speakers. The Fit Sport is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System(tm) with Voice Recognition, which features a 6.5-inch screen and more than seven million points of interest. The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System debuting on the 2012 Fit Sport features 16 GB of flash memory in place of the DVD-based system used previously. Like other Honda navigation systems, this new system allows simple, intuitive operation and has an extensive on-board database.

Awards and accolades include being named to Car and Driver Magazine's "10Best Cars" list (www.caranddriver.com) continuously from 2007 through 20112. In the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study, the Fit earned the highest initial quality score in its segment. The Fit has also been named a 2011 Top RecommendedSM vehicle by Edmunds.com in its 2011 New Car Sedan Buying Guide (http://automobiles.honda.com/fit/reviews.aspx). In addition, the Fit captured the 2011 Residual Value Award for "Best Sub Compact Car" from ALG.

1.The Bluetooth(r) word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor *** Ltd., is under license. 

2.Car and Driver, January 2011

3.Based on 2012 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only.  Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

4.The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your dealer for details on compatibility.

5.Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include, but are not limited to, automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments. RDS not available on navigation models. 

Our sister publication, Bound By Ink, has just released their limited edition book entitled, Altered Egos. In this issue, they've put together some of their best photos to present to you a new look into tattoo culture.

If you haven't already picked up a copy yet, this issue is on newsstands for a limited time only! Don't miss out!

 Here’s our latest flyer for Long Beach Queen Mary. Download, Share it, Email it.. Spread the word! Look for these flyers at Formula D this weekend.

 Weksos Industries and Fatlace is proud to announce our collaboration in bringing our community one of the best events our industry has to offer! Come witness this EPIC event heard/read about all over the community / forums / chatter and blogs. Our first stop in our 4 city tour is in Long Beach to be exact! All major magazine publications, along with some of the Westcoast’s finest builds will gather all in one day to showcase it all!

Lawmakers Acknowledge Importance of Collection and Restoration of Historic and Classic Cars.

 Washington, D.C. (April 15, 2011) -- The United States Senate passed Senate Resolution 154 (S. Res. 154) at the request of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Councils designating July 8, 2011 as “Collector Car Appreciation Day.”  The date marks the second commemoration in what will become an annual event to celebrate and raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.

S. Res. 154 was sponsored by Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus members Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC).  Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, and S. Res. 154 reaffirms their understanding of the cultural importance of collector cars.  The Caucus is an informal, non-partisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever growing love affair with the car and motorsports.  The Caucus recognizes the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for motorsports.  

“Last year, the United States Senate helped launch the first national Collector Car Appreciation Day at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As a result, thousands of Americans gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation’s automotive heritage. SEMA’s commitment to preserving and promoting the automotive restoration industry through its projects and programs is evident in this special day.  We look forward to even more celebrations this July 8 and in the years to come.”

In recognition of the day, collectors and enthusiasts will be hosting events across the country.  ARMO Chairman Laura Bergan said, “On July 8, 2011, collectors and enthusiasts will host hundreds of events across the country.  We will proudly partner with individuals, car clubs and businesses as they organize car cruises, club gatherings and other educational events to celebrate the day.” 

Rick Love, HRIA chairman-elect said, “The industry endeavors to preserve our nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, high-skilled jobs nationwide.  Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to this industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.”

SEMA will maintain a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile.  Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Ashley Ailsworth, SEMA Research and State Affairs Manager at ashleya@sema.org or 202-783-6007 x. 39.

 Many Japanese automakers suffered tiny amounts of damage from Friday's tremendous earthquake but claim they're recovering rather quickly--some factory workers were injured and one death was accounted for at Honda.

Honda was hit the hardest of all.

About thirty Honda workers were injured in the massive quake, and a 43 year old man was killed at Honda's Research and Development facility just outside of Tokyo. Many facilities have been shut down and production has been halted at 3 of its factories until Monday.

Nissan didn't receive any damage, but little fires broke out at 2 of its manufacturing facilities, which we're quickly extinguished (only two employees were hurt). They will be closing its factories until Sunday.

Toyota has reported its main production plants are operating fine, but 4 factories in northern Japan have been evacuated and shut down.

Mazda, which is located in Hiroshima (south eastern tip of Japan) announced it will remain operations as normal since most of the damage was done in the northeast of the country.

Subaru temporarily closed 5 plants as a result of the earthquake.

The powerful earthquake collapsed buildings, started widespread fires, and unleashed 30-foot walls of water. Hundreds are missing, hundreds are dead, and tens of thousands of people have been displaced.

 New Civic goes on sale spring 2011

Honda Debuts Sleek and Sophisticated Concepts for All-New 2012 Civic Si Coupe and Civic Sedan Models

The Honda Civic Si Concept coupe and Civic Concept sedan are making world debuts at the North American International Auto Show today, providing the first official glimpse at the styling direction of the all-new, ninth-generation 2012 model set to go on sale this spring, the company announced. "The Civic is known for providing a balance of 'just-right' packaging, fun-to-drive character and outstanding fuel economy, at a price that even first-time buyers can afford," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "The redesigned Civic builds on this legacy and promises to be the best Civic yet." The 2012 Civic embraces the company's vision as a "Civic for all people," a phrase originally expressed in defining the goal of the first-generation Civic.

The front fender surface treatments form a complex, three-dimensional look to further enhance the image of sophistication and structural depth against the deeply set headlights. The Civic Concept sedan takes on a sophisticated presence with a front grille defined by crisp lines and a solid bar that integrates a chrome Honda emblem. The look of the Civic Si Concept coupe conveys an aggressive demeanor with a more angular front fascia, mesh grille and a tapered rear roofline that flows smoothly into the trunk. The Civic Si Concept coupe is exclusively equipped with a rear air diffuser, a center-mounted exhaust outlet and a rear deck lid spoiler with dual vents. Each concept model has 19-inch machined alloy wheels.

Powertrain Technology

The Civic's family of engines with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC®) technology become even more fuel efficient for 2012. The upcoming Civic Hybrid offers the latest generation of the compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist™ (IMA™) gasoline-electric hybrid system and features the first application of a lithium-ion battery in a Honda hybrid. Building on its emphasis on fuel-economy, most upcoming Civic models receive Honda Eco Assist™ technology, already available in the CR-Z and Insight hybrids

Safety

The 2012 Civic continues to emphasize safety and is anticipated to score well in both the federal government's New Car Assessment Program1 (NCAP) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety2 (IIHS) vehicle evaluations. The 2001 Honda Civic Coupe was one of the first two passenger cars ever to earn the federal government's top 5-star crash safety rating3 for the driver and front- and rear-seat passengers in both frontal and side-impact crash tests. All 2012 Civics are equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) as standard equipment.

Accolades and Manufacturing

As a top-selling model for Honda, the current, eighth-generation Civic has sold more than 1.5 million units since the 2006 model went on sale in late 2005. The 2006 Civic earned both the prestigious Motor Trend "Car of the Year" and the North American Car of the Year awards. The current-generation Civic continues to be a significant entry-point to the Honda brand for younger buyers, introducing on average more than 90,000 new-car customers under the age of 35 to the brand every year

 Fit EV Concept Electric Vehicle

Honda today unveiled the all-new Fit EV Concept electric vehicle and the platform for a midsize plug-in hybrid vehicle at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Both vehicles are integral to the Honda Electric Mobility Network, the company's comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions through innovative products, energy-management and energy-production technologies. 

The Fit EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling for Honda's upcoming production Fit EV battery electric vehicle, which will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012. The all-new plug-in hybrid platform showcases Honda's next-generation, two-motor hybrid technology set to debut in 2012. 

"Honda's long history with electromotive technologies has enabled us to understand customer requirements," said Takanobu Ito, Honda Motor *** Ltd. President and CEO. "In Honda's view, an electric vehicle must offer great utility and be fun to drive. Fit EV's urban commuting capability will be a perfect addition to the full-function mobility of the plug-in hybrid and FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle." 

Honda Fit EV 

The Fit EV is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilises the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Fit hatchback (known as Jazz in Europe). When the Fit EV production model is introduced, it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor. 

The high-density motor, derived from the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds. The Fit EV will have a top speed of 144 km/h (90 mph).

The Fit EV will achieve an estimated 160 km (100 mile) driving range per charge using the US EPA LA4* city cycle (112 km when applying EPA's adjustment factor). Driving range can be maximised by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between ECON, NORMAL, and SPORT to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximise efficiency or improve acceleration. 

The 3-mode electric drive system uses the same principle as the 3-mode drive system in the CR-Z hybrid, which allows drivers to optimise the vehicle for their preferences or traffic conditions. While in ECON mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17 percent, compared to driving in NORMAL mode, and up to 25 percent compared to driving in SPORT mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, generating performance similar to a vehicle equipped with a 2.0-litre petrol engine. 

The Fit EV is designed to be easy and convenient to charge. Battery recharging can be accomplished in less than 12 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet, and less than six hours when using a 240-volt outlet. 

The Fit EV Concept displayed at the Los Angeles Auto Show features an exclusive Deep Clear Blue Pearl exterior colour and distinctive five-spoke aluminium-alloy wheels with blue inserts. The Concept has unique LED headlights, a chrome front fascia, aerodynamic bumper, clear LED taillights and EV decals. Inside, the Fit EV Concept is outfitted in an eco-friendly grey bio-fabric on the seating surfaces. 

Displayed alongside the Fit EV Concept at the show is a prototype Honda charging stand. To begin charging, the driver swipes a card in front of the screen and then connects the charger to the vehicle. The Honda charging stand provides a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that is easy to use and intuitive for consumers.

Honda Plug-in Hybrid

Honda also unveiled a plug-in hybrid platform, which showcases Honda's next-generation two-motor hy brid system. Integrated into a mid-size sedan platform, the plug-in hybrid is designed to be compatible with daily driving habits, allowing for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode, while providing long-distance driving capability when needed. The Honda two-motor system continuously moves through three different modes to maximise driving efficiency: all-electric, petrol-electric and a unique, engine direct-drive mode. The plug-in hybrid also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.

In all-electric mode, the vehicle uses a 6kWh lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor. The all-electric mode achieves a range of approximately 16-24 km (10-15) miles in city driving and a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph). Fully recharging the battery will take 2 to 2.5 hours using a 120-volt outlet and 1 to 1.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet. 

For more efficient high-speed cruising, the vehicle can engage in a direct-drive mode, in which only the engine drives the front wheels.

Advanced Technology Demonstration Program

American Honda will launch an Advanced Technology Demonstration Program this year to provide real-world testing of its new vehicles, as well as research into customer behaviour and usability, public charging infrastructure planning and sustainability initiatives. Partners in the program will include Stanford University, City of Torrance, Calif. and Google, Inc. 

Honda Electric Mobility Network and Energy Management

Together with the Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, the Fit EV and the future plug-in hybrid vehicle are a part of the company's comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions. Honda is unique in its efforts to create both environmentally-responsible products and the renewable energy solutions to power them. Honda is currently producing and marketing thin-film solar panels in Japan, and an installation has recently been completed at the Honda Akademie in Germany. 

Honda is also using innovative ways to produce and distribute energy through sustainable methods, such as using solar power to produce hydrogen fuel from water. Additionally, Honda is developing home energy-management systems that utilise micro-cogeneration technology and solar cell modules to power and heat homes as well as charge electric vehicles. The Honda Electric Mobility Network joins clean vehicle technology, renewable energy production and energy management solutions for the benefit of customers and society. 

Honda Environmental Leadership

The Fit EV and a plug-in hybrid sedan will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012, joining Honda's diverse line-up of environmentally-responsible vehicles, which include the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, the Civic GX compressed natural gas-powered sedan (U.S. only) and four distinct petrol-electric hybrid models: Civic Hybrid (US and Japan only); CR-Z sporty hybrid; Insight hybrid and Jazz Hybrid (Japan and Europe only).