Experience the remarkable transformation as Honda engineers take a CR-V to new heights by outfitting it with an IndyCar motor. Honda has unveiled an intriguing video showcasing the process behind this groundbreaking endeavor.
Dubbed the CR-V Hybrid Racer, this unique creation was meticulously crafted by the Honda Performance Development team, the masterminds responsible for Honda’s IndyCar engine program. The Honda of America Racing Team, a passionate group of Honda employees, dedicated their spare time to assemble the vehicle at Honda’s North American Development Center in Ohio.
The primary objective of this ambitious project was to demonstrate that hybrids can be an exhilarating experience, pushing the boundaries of what Honda engineers can achieve when unbound by conventional regulations. Hannah Westbrook, one of the brilliant minds behind the project, explains in the video how the CR-V Hybrid Racer also serves as a dynamic laboratory and testbed. David Salters, the head of Honda Performance Development, affectionately refers to the vehicle as “The Beast.”
This extraordinary vehicle marries the potent turbocharged 2.2-liter V-6 engine, along with the Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission and rear suspension, borrowed from an IndyCar race car. The front suspension and steering, sourced from an Acura NSX GT3 race car, perfectly complement the remarkable powertrain. While the front brakes are also NSX GT3 components, the rear brakes have been custom-designed. All of these impressive features are integrated into a specially crafted chassis, featuring a captivating blend of elements inspired by the stock 2023 CR-V, DTM, and Group B designs.
With an estimated peak output of 800 hp, the CR-V Hybrid Racer incorporates a hybrid system akin to the existing IndyCar push-to-pass system. However, in this case, the system relies on electric power instead of additional turbo boost to deliver a rapid surge of added power. This innovative setup also enables all-electric launches, enhancing the vehicle’s versatility on the road.
Over the course of 14 months, the dedicated team of volunteers tirelessly worked during nights and weekends to bring this audacious vision to life. The integration of the CR-V’s original sheet metal proved to be a formidable challenge, particularly when designing the rear clamshell section, which conceals the mighty IndyCar engine. After some trial and error, the team successfully fashioned the clamshell using stock CR-V bodywork, ultimately opting for a reversed hinge configuration.
While the production version of the CR-V Hybrid won’t adopt the IndyCar powertrain setup, it will continue to rely on Honda’s efficient hybrid system. Nevertheless, IndyCar plans to introduce hybrid powertrains for the upcoming 2024 racing season, building upon the groundbreaking achievements showcased by the CR-V Hybrid Racer.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hybrid Racer
What is the CR-V Hybrid Racer?
The CR-V Hybrid Racer is a one-off vehicle created by Honda engineers, combining the powertrain from an IndyCar race car with a hybrid system and innovative design elements.
What was the goal of the CR-V Hybrid Racer project?
The goal of the project was to demonstrate that hybrids can be fun and showcase the capabilities of Honda engineers when they have the freedom to push boundaries and explore new possibilities.
What components were used in the CR-V Hybrid Racer?
The vehicle incorporates the turbocharged 2.2-liter V-6 engine, Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission, and rear suspension from an IndyCar race car. It also features the front suspension and steering from an Acura NSX GT3 race car, along with custom brakes and a specially crafted chassis.
How much power does the CR-V Hybrid Racer produce?
The estimated peak output of the CR-V Hybrid Racer is around 800 horsepower, thanks to the combination of the powerful IndyCar powertrain and the added boost from the hybrid system.
How long did it take to complete the CR-V Hybrid Racer?
The project took approximately 14 months to complete, with a dedicated team of volunteer Honda employees working during nights and weekends to bring the vision to life.
Will the production version of the CR-V adopt the IndyCar powertrain?
No, the production version of the CR-V Hybrid will not adopt the IndyCar powertrain. It will continue to utilize Honda’s current efficiency-focused hybrid system.
Are there plans to introduce hybrid powertrains in IndyCar racing?
Yes, IndyCar plans to introduce hybrid powertrains for the 2024 racing season, building upon the groundbreaking achievements showcased by the CR-V Hybrid Racer.
More about Hybrid Racer
- Honda Performance Development: Official Website
- Honda of America Racing Team: Official Website
- CR-V Hybrid Racer Video: YouTube
- IndyCar: Official Website
- Acura NSX GT3: Official Website
- North American Development Center: Official Website
- CR-V Hybrid: Official Website
- DTM: Official Website
- Group B: Wikipedia
- IndyCar Hybrid Powertrains: Article