Honda has a redesigned CR-V on sale for 2023, however the model featured right here will not seem in showrooms.
It is a one-off construct developed by Honda Efficiency Improvement, each as a promotional instrument and a rolling laboratory.
Known as the CR-V Hybrid Racer, it is constructed round a customized body and packs the brand new hybrid powertrain Honda is growing for IndyCar. The open-wheel collection is about to introduce hybrid powertrains in 2024.
The powertrain combines Honda’s present twin-turbo 2.2-liter V-6 IndyCar engine with a driver-activated Empel electrical motor-generator. As a substitute of storing {the electrical} vitality in a battery, the setup depends on a Skeleton tremendous capacitor. Additionally borrowed from IndyCar is the Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission.
Peak energy is estimated at round 800 hp. That compares with the inventory CR-V Hybrid that includes a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder paired with Honda’s two-motor hybrid system for a mixed 204 hp.
On the skin, the CR-V Hybrid Racer seems to be very similar to a daily CR-V that is been slammed. Every part from the waistline up is definitely inventory CR-V, together with the metal physique, home windows, and even a sunroof. Under this, although, is a customized carbon-composite shell with flared fenders and butterfly half-cut doorways.
Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer idea
The CR-V Hybrid Racer is about to make its debut on the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg working March 3-5 in Florida. The race serves because the opening spherical of the 2023 IndyCar season. The idea automobile will present up at numerous extra IndyCar rounds and in some instances will make monitor appearances.
Whereas the manufacturing CR-V will not undertake a powertrain just like the IndyCar setup, a brand new powertrain is coming to the favored compact crossover. Honda final fall confirmed plans for a CR-V geared up with a hydrogen gasoline cell powertrain.