When the all-new Jazz launches globally later this year it will drive advanced Honda hybrid innovation from the race track to the road. Using engineering expertise from its motorsport team, Honda is drawing knowledge from its Formula 1 Hybrid Power Unit (PU) program to improve the energy efficiency of the brand’s e: HEV hybrid system. The latest road-going beneficiary of this technology is the all-new Jazz.

The new Jazz’s e: HEV hybrid system recycles energy and harnesses it to charge the battery and support engine output, for strong performance, seamless switching between drive modes, and maximum efficiency. It consists of two compact, powerful electric motors connected to a 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine, a lithium-ion battery, and an innovative fixed-gear transmission via an intelligent power control unit, which all work harmoniously together to provide a smooth and direct response.

In most urban driving situations, optimum efficiency is achieved through transitions between EV Drive and Hybrid Drive. For driving at highway speeds, Engine Drive is used, supplemented by an on-demand peak power ‘boost’ from the electric propulsion motor for fast acceleration. In Hybrid Drive, excess power from the petrol engine can also be diverted to recharge the battery via the generator motor.

EV Drive is also engaged when the car is decelerating, harvesting energy through regenerative braking to recharge the battery. The Honda Jazz is equipped with a newly-developed Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT) with a single fixed-gear ratio to create a direct connection between moving components.

Of course, it remains to be seen whether the hybrid powertrain will make it to India or not.