Honda Begins Production of All-new BF350 Large-size Outboard Motor Equipped with V8 350-Horsepower Engine
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has begun production of the all-new BF350 outboard motor with a maximum output of 350 horsepower. The BF350 is the most powerful model in the BF Series, the Honda 4-stroke outboard motor series that has been popular for its high dynamic performance and outstanding cost-effectiveness.
All-new BF350 large-size outboard motor[Aquamarine Silver (left) and Grand Prix White (right)]
Equipped with a newly developed dedicated V8 engine with displacement of 4,952 cm3 (302 in3), the BF350 is the flagship model of Honda marine outboards, providing powerful propulsion with maximum output of 350 horsepower. In addition to high performance and seaworthiness achieved by the abundant torque, the BF350 realizes a high level of quiet operation and low vibration through the adoption of a newly designed crankshaft. Moreover, the BF350 was developed with the goal to offer an environmentally-responsible and cost-effective outboard, realizing top-level fuel economy in its class(1).
The BF350 also features enhanced support features to ensure a smoother and more comfortable boating experience for customers, including the cruise control function which makes it possible to cruise at a set boat speed or engine speed (rpm), as well as the trim support function, a new function to automatically control the outboard motor to maintain a pre-set trim angle(2).
Furthermore, the BF350 features a new automatic tilt function, which enables customers to fully tilt(3) the BF350 up or down automatically, improving the customer convenience even when the boat is docked or stored.
Moreover, including the high-power tilt motor that prevents a decline in the tilt speed in cold weather and the antifreeze drainage structure, the BF350 features a number of ingenious features that enable customers to use the BF350 with peace of mind even in harsh environments. Furthermore, to reduce the customer burden and ensure that customers can enjoy a fun boating experience with the BF350 for a long time, the ease of maintenance was enhanced.
As for styling, a “Noble Motion Form” design was adopted to express a sense of luxury appropriate for a flagship model. While inheriting a sense of unity with nature as well as a simple and clean image, which Honda has been expressing with all of its outboards, BF350 styling was perfected with a form that conveys a sense of high quality. The DBW remote controller(4) was newly designed in pursuit of functional beauty while enhancing functionality and operability, enabling the users to feel the “Noble Motion Form” while operating their boat.
All-new BF350 (2-motor installation shown)
Key features of the BF350
High-power and fuel-efficient engine developed exclusively for the BF350
– A V8 engine with displacement of 4,952 cm3 and maximum output of 350 horsepower was newly designed exclusively for the BF350, which features both high power achieved by abundant torque generated by its dedicated engine and low-vibration/low-noise operation realized by the adoption of a newly-designed crankshaft. The newly-designed crankshaft eliminated the need for a balancer to reduce vibration, realizing a simple outboard structure with enhanced durability and reliability. – The BF350 adopts VTEC, which has long been a popular feature of Honda automobiles and outboard motors as well, realizing both high power and excellent environmental performance. Moreover, fuel economy was further improved through the application of air-fuel ratio feedback control using an O2 sensor and optimization of the shape of the gear case. Through these measures, the BF350 realizes top-level fuel economy in its class despite the fact that it is an outboard powered by regular gasoline.
Enhanced support functions for boat operation
– Trim support function (a first for Honda outboards)With customer operation of buttons on the remote control, the system automatically controls the outboard based on the engine rpm and boat speed to maintain a pre-set trim angle (boat attitude), enabling easier and more comfortable boat operation.
– Cruise control functionWith customer operation of buttons on the remote control, the system maintains a constant engine rpm or boat speed while cruising. Compared to other BF Series models, the cruise control function of the BF350 controls engine speed for a broader range, supporting customer operation of the board with greater comfort and in a more relaxed manner.
– Automatic tilt functionThis function to automatically tilt up/down the FB350 while the engine is off automates operations when the boat is docked or stored and is expected to significantly reduce the customer burden.
Adoption of a large-capacity alternator
By adopting a large-capacity (12V-93A) alternator, battery charging power of 70A was secured. This reduces the risk and concern for running out of battery power, even for boats without an auxiliary generator.
In addition, the BF350 features an adjustable idling-charge system that automatically raises, even at idle speeds, the engine rpm to the maximum of 43A to enhance charging performance when the electric load on the BF350 increases.
Enhanced ease of maintenance
Ease of maintenance was further enhanced with various measures including the addition of an anode to prevent corrosion, the adoption of an engine cover with a new structure that makes attaching/detaching easier and a change in the installation angle of the oil filter to prevent from oil spilling when changing the oil filter.
Design concept
While inheriting the simple, clean styling of the BF series that creates a sense of unity with people and nature and matches the design of any boat, the BF350 adopted a “Noble Motion Form” design appropriate for a flagship model. With the use of three-dimensional logos and chrome-plated parts, styling with a sense of high quality was perfected.
(1) Based on Honda internal research as of January 2024. (2) The angle of the outboard motor can be adjusted while boating to adjust boat trim (boat attitude). (3) Operation to lift the outboard motor from the water surface or tilt it to the angle at which the boat can be operable. (4) Electronic remote-control system.
Honda today unveiled the “Honda 0 Series,” a new EV series Honda will launch globally starting in 2026, with the world premiere of two concept models, namely Saloon and Space-Hub, at the CES 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. Honda also presented the world premiere of the new H markto be used exclusively for the next-generation EV models of Honda.
Honda 0 Series concept models, Saloon (left) and Space-Hub (right)
Highlights:
– In 2026, Honda will launch the “Honda 0 Series,” a new EV series for global markets, starting from the North American market – Honda presented the world premiere of Honda 0 Series concept models, Saloon and Space-Hub, at the CES 2024 – A new “H mark” that represents Honda’s commitment for the next-generation EVs also made its world debut – Honda 0 Series is being developed with a new approach – Thin, Light, and Wise – to offer five core values. 1) Artistic design that evokes resonance 2) AD/ADAS that ensures safety and peace of mind 3) A “space” for people made possible by the internet of things and connected technologies 4) The joy of driving with the feeling of oneness with the vehicle 5) Outstanding electricity efficiency performance
Honda has been conducting business based on its Global Brand Slogan: The Power of Dreams – How we move you. This slogan conveys the message that Honda will create mobility products and services which enable people to “transcend various constraints such as time and place,” and to “augment their abilities and possibilities.” With such mobility products and services, Honda will support the realization of dreams of more people and become the driving force that moves society forward.
Moreover, Honda is aiming to realize carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050. To this end, the company is pursuing electrification to achieve its automobile electrification target of “increasing the ratio of EV and FCEV sales to 100% globally by 2040.”
The Honda 0 Series is a new EV series that symbolizes how Honda is undergoing a major transformation in line with its Global Brand Slogan and electrification policy. The series name represents Honda’s determination in taking on this challenge of developing new EV series by going back to the starting point of Honda as an automaker and creating completely new EVs from “zero.” With this new EV series, Honda will strive to further advance its “M/M concept(1)” and the “joy of driving,” which Honda values in its car making, and take the “joy and freedom of mobility” to even greater heights.
In 2026, Honda will begin introducing the first model of the Honda 0 Series globally, starting from North America, then to Japan, Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East and South America.
About Honda 0 Series
Thoughts behind the “0” (zero)
1. History of Honda: The origin and staring (“zero”) point of HondaHonda will create a new point of origin for the next-generation of Honda by going back to the starting point of Honda, including the pursuit of the M/M concept, the joy of driving and the joy of the freedom of mobility, which Honda has always valued and will continue to pursue.
2. Implementation of the Global Brand Slogan: Moving peoples’ hearts with the value created from “zero”Under its global brand slogan “The Power of Dreams – How we move you,” Honda will always be driven by “dreams,” and by creating new value through creative thinking from zero, Honda will provide experiences that will become a new starting point for our customers. This is how Honda will move people and their hearts.
3. Initiatives to contribute to society: Determination to achieve “zero”Honda is determined to achieve “zero environmental impact” throughout the vehicle’s life cycle, including corporate activities, and “zero traffic collision fatalities” involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles.
“Thin, Light, and Wise” – New approach to EV development and the five core values Honda EVs will offer
In developing the Honda 0 Series, the development team went back to the starting point of Honda and reconsidered what kind of EVs Honda wants to create in the coming era. Honda will strive to create new value for EVs by transcending the constraints of being a “thick and heavy” vehicle due to an increase in battery capacity the vehicle has to carry to secure enough range, as well as a large body and platform necessary to accommodate such battery capacity. Honda describes this new approach to EV development as “Thin, Light, and Wise.”
Thin: Augmenting design potential, including styling with a low vehicle height, and realizing excellent aerodynamic performance by utilizing a “thin” dedicated EV platform to create a low floor height.
Light: Realizing sporty driving and electricity efficiency performance that defy the established beliefs people have about EVs through Honda original technologies created by going back to the starting point of Honda as an automaker.
Wise: Realizing Honda original software-defined mobility products by leveraging the knowledge Honda has amassed to date and by making cars wiser through the advancement of intelligent technologies.
Honda EVs, which will be built based on this development approach and feature a dedicated EV architecture, will offer the following five core values:1) Artistic design that evokes resonance2) AD/ADAS that ensures safety and peace of mind3) A “space” for people made possible by the internet of things and connected technologies 4) The joy of driving with the feeling of oneness with the vehicle5) Outstanding electricity efficiency performance
Five core values
1) Artistic design that evokes resonance:The design concept is “The Art of Resonance.” Under the theme of a “resonance with the environment, society and users,” Honda will offer sustainable mobility products that evoke resonance in people who see them and expand the possibilities of people’s daily life.
2) AD/ADAS that ensures safety and peace of mind:In 2021, Honda put Level 3 automated driving into practical use by introducing the all-new Legend equipped with Honda SENSING Elite that includes an advanced technology qualifying for Level 3 automated driving (conditional automated driving in a limited area). In order to offer automated driving technologies Honda has amassed to more customers around the world, the Honda 0 Series will feature an ADAS (advanced driver-assistive system) that utilizes the technologies of Honda SENSING Elite.
Moreover, in the second half of the 2020s, Honda 0 Series models will feature an AD (automated driving) system and will be offered as more affordable EVs featuring more automated driving functions.
This AD system is being developed based on Honda’s “human-centric” safety concept. It will feature further advanced AI, sensing, recognition/decision-making and driver monitoring technologies to realize more human-like, natural and high-precision risk predictions, making it possible to offer automated driving functions people can use safely and with peace of mind. Such advanced AD technologies will increase the number of situations where automated driving can be used on expressways and make some of hands-off functions, currently available only on expressways, available on regular roads.
3) New value as a “space” for people made possible by the internet of things (IoT) and connected technologies:Through IoT and connected technologies centered on Honda’s original vehicle OS, the Honda 0 Series models will aim to offer the value of “fun to drive, fun to use and fun to be connected.” With the utilization of AI and big data, the vehicle will learn the user’s preferences such as music, as well as a driver’s behaviors and tendencies while driving, and will make various suggestions. Moreover, the vehicle will provide information about the surrounding areas and route guidance for the “last mile” to the final destination that users have to travel on their own after getting off the vehicle. The vehicle will offer value as if it understands the feelings of the user. The more people use their vehicle, the closer they become with their vehicles, which makes it possible for the vehicle to offer the “fun of being connected” in various situations in people’s daily lives.
4) The joy of driving with the feeling of oneness with the vehicleWith Honda’s original electrification and dynamics technologies, the Honda 0 Series models will offer the joy of driving for a new era, an uplifting feeling that comes from a sporty drive and sense of oneness the driver feels, both mentally and physically, with the vehicle. In addition, by combining the low-height styling of the 0 Series with a full range of aerodynamic technologies honed by Honda in motor sports, dynamic and aerodynamic performance and design will be harmonized at a high level.
5) Outstanding electricity efficiency performanceBased on the electrification technology Honda has amassed in the development of hybrid vehicles and other areas, energy efficiency is pursued to achieve high electricity efficiency performance. In particular, Honda 0 Series models will feature e-Axles*2 with excellent power conversion efficiency and packaging, lightweight, high-density battery packs and excellent aerodynamic performance, targeting a sufficient range while minimizing the battery capacity loaded on the vehicle.
Moreover, to address concerns about “charging time” and “battery degradation,” which have been the challenge facing the popularization of EVs, Honda 0 Series models will offer stress-free charging performance and worry-free battery performance that minimizes degradation over many years of use. For the 0 Series models to be launched in the second half of the 2020s, fast-charging 15% to 80% will be shortened to about 10-15 minutes. In the meantime, by applying battery system control technology refined based on a massive amount of driving data from over 1 million units of Honda electrified vehicles, Honda is striving to limit the degradation of battery capacity (range) to less than 10% after 10 years of use.
*1 The “man maximum, machine minimum” concept is a basic approach to Honda car design, an approach to increase the efficiency of the vehicle interior by maximizing space for people and minimizing the space required for mechanical components. *2 A system that consists of a motor, inverter and gearbox, and converts electric power energy into driving force.
Concept models that represent the Honda 0 Series – Saloon and Space-Hub
Saloon
The Saloon is the flagship concept model of the Honda 0 Series, which embodies the “Thin, Light, and Wise” approach. The dedicated EV architecture extends the degree of freedom in design and elevates the M/M concept in the era of EVs. The low height, sporty styling that sets the Saloon apart from other EVs at first glance realizes both a fascinating design and an interior space that is more spacious than people can imagine based on the exterior appearance. Moreover, the instrument panel features a human-machine interface (HMI) that enables simple and intuitive operations, realizing a sophisticated and seamless user interface (UI). With an exhilarating visibility and intuitive UI, the Saloon strives to provide a fun driving experience that resonates with the driver’s sensibility.With the adoption of steer-by-wire and the further advancement of the motion management system, including posture control, that Honda has amassed through the development of original robotics technologies, the Saloon aims to realize control at the will of the driver in a variety of driving situations. As the flagship model of the Honda 0 Series, the Saloon pursues the ultimate “joy of driving” in the EV era. Furthermore, including the use of sustainable materials for the interior and exterior, the Saloon is being developed as a unique model that resonates with users and the natural environment.
Saloon concept movie
Space-Hub
Under the common design language of the Honda 0 Series, the Space-Hub was developed under the theme of “augmenting people’s daily lives.” Realizing a spacious cabin and excellent visibility based on the “Thin, Light, and Wise” development approach, the Space-Hub offers a flexible space that immediately accommodates what the users want to do, and becomes a hub that connects people to people and people to society, generating mutual resonance with each other.
Space-Hub concept movie
About new H mark
The current “H mark” has a long history, dating back to 1981 when it was renewed from the previous version. To commemorate the development of the next-generation EVs, Honda decided to design a new H mark, which represents Honda automobiles, to express Honda’s determination to pursue the transformation as well as Honda’s corporate attitude of going beyond the origin of Honda and constantly pursuing new challenges and advancements. This design expression, like two outstretched hands, represents Honda’s commitment to augment the possibilities of mobility and sincerely serve the needs of the users of Honda EVs. This new H mark will be used on next-generation EVs of Honda, including Honda 0 Series models.
Honda press conference at CES 2024 (livestreaming/archive)
For more information, visit https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2024/c240110eng.html.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda), Tokuyama Corporation (Tokuyama), and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) (“Project Members”) will conduct a joint demonstration to operate a data center using by-product hydrogen and a stationary fuel cell (FC) power station designed to reuse FC systems from fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). (“Demonstration Project”).
This Demonstration Project was proposed to and adopted by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) as one of the projects for the “Development of Technologies for Realizing a Hydrogen Society / Development of Technologies for Regional Hydrogen Utilization.”
This Demonstration Project will be conducted in Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan using by-product hydrogen produced by Tokuyama’s salt water electrolysis business to supply electricity to a distributed data center operated by MC from a stationary fuel cell power station that Honda will develop based on the assumption of reusing fuel cells from FCEVs.
Project Members will explore the potential of reusing automotive FC systems in a stationary application. The objective of the Demonstration Project is to reduce the economic burden on customers installing and operating stationary FC systems, which will contribute to the decarbonization of the electric power.
A further increase in power demand for data centers is expected in the long run due to the advancement of technologies that require large-volume data processing, such as generative AI and automated driving. In the face of this market environment, by utilizing by-product hydrogen and FCs to power distributed data centers, the Project Members aim to facilitate the decarbonization of data centers and the digital transformation of municipalities and local businesses.
Based on the knowledge gained from this Demonstration Project, the Project Members will look into the feasibility of the installation and expansion of data centers using clean power in the region, as well as explore further business opportunities both inside and outside Japan.
Overview of the joint demonstration
The official title of the Demonstration Project:
Decarbonizing data centers using by-product hydrogen and a stationary FC power station reusing fuel cell systems from vehicle applications
Points of Demonstration:
– Verify the use of fuel cells in 1) primary and backup power sources for data centers; and 2) grid-balancing (Balancing Market) – Verify the economics and feasibility of integrated hydrogen business models operating fuel cells and supplying hydrogen.
Demonstration period:
From the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024 through the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026.
For more information, visit www.mitsubishicorp.com/jp/en/pr/archive/2023/html/0000052615.html
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will begin sales in Japan of a new SUV, the WR-V*1, on March 22, 2024.
The WR-V features dynamic design and performance that will enable any driver to enjoy driving with peace of mind and a sense of trust, as well as the top-level*2 cargo space in its class.
(1) The vehicle name, WR-V, is an acronym that stands for “Winsome Runabout Vehicle.” The word “winsome” means “delightful” and “cheerful,” and the name represents Honda’s desire to create a vehicle people can use to enjoy their everyday lives with energy and enthusiasm. (2) In the “compact SUV” class. Honda research as of December 2023.
Sales plan (in Japan, monthly): 3,000 units
For more information, visit https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2023/4231221eng-wr-v.html.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will begin sales in Japan of the refreshed Odyssey premium minivan, tomorrow, on Friday, December 8, 2023. The refresh includes refinement of the design, comfort and functionality as well as the addition of a new hybrid-electric type to the lineup, the e:HEV ABSOLUTE・EX BLACK EDITION.
Odyssey e:HEV ABSOLUTE・EX BLACK EDITION
The refreshed Odyssey will come in three types: e:HEV ABSOLUTE, e:HEV ABSOLUTE.EX, and the new e:HEV ABSOLUTE・EX BLACK EDITION. While inheriting key features from the successive generations of Odyssey models sold in Japan, namely the sedan-like driving stability and the atypical styling for a minivan, which were made possible by the low-floor platform, the original styling and a comfortable cabin space that were further improved by adding new features to better accommodate customer needs.
Sales plan in Japan, monthly:
1,000 units
Advancement of design
A newly designed front grille was adopted. The wide look is emphasized through the enlargement of the grille opening, and the combination of five horizontal plated bars and architectural details further enhances the premium look of the vehicle. By placing the Honda emblem at the very front, the protruding look of the front part of the body is emphasized, achieving a styling design that creates a more powerful and substantial presence.
The newly added e:HEV ABSOLUTE EX BLACK EDITION features a black chrome plated front grille, rear combination lights with black smoked lenses, matte Berlina Black 18-inch aluminum wheels and a black roof and pillar linings. Other black decorative parts are incorporated throughout the interior and exterior, expressing the sophistication of Honda’s highest-end model in Japan.
Advancement of utility
For all types, four-way power seats were adopted for the second-row. The electrification of the ottoman and reclining controls enabled more precise adjustments of the seats so that customers can be in more comfortable seating positions. Moreover, heated seats, a foldable center table, armrests with a mini table, and a USB charger (Type-C) at the foot of the seats are standard equipment for all types, further enhancing the comfort of second-row passengers.
As with previous Odyssey models, the third-row seats of all types can fold quickly and easily into the floor, offering a large-capacity cargo space and customer convenience.
Both the e:HEV ABSOLUTE・EX and e:HEV ABSOLUTE・EX BLACK EDITION types feature genuine leather seats, a wireless charger, and a hands-free access power tailgate as standard equipment to meet the needs of customers seeking greater comfort and a high sense of quality.
Adoption of a deceleration selector and electric gear selector
A deceleration selector was newly adopted, enabling the driver to adjust the rate of deceleration (up or down) when the accelerator pedal is rereleased. The deceleration selector can be utilized while driving downhill or to adjust the distance from the vehicle in front. The electric gear selector, which enables the driver to achieve smooth shifting using a single finger, is also adopted for the first time for Odyssey.
Addition of new functions and further advancement of Honda SENSING
The refreshed Odyssey features the Honda SENSING(1) advanced safety and driver-assistive system, to which three new functions were added: Low Speed Brake Function, Auto High Beam Headlights and Unintended Acceleration Mitigation(2). Moreover, by widening the field of view of the front camera, the detection range for the Collision Mitigation Braking System was expanded, enabling the detection of vehicles crossing in front, oncoming vehicles when turning right (in left-hand traffic), bicycles crossing in front, motorcycles, and pedestrians at night. With these advancements, Honda SENSING will assist the driver and offer greater peace of mind in various driving situations.
List of Honda SENSING functions available for the refreshed Odyssey
1. Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) 2. Collision Mitigation Throttle Control(3) 3. Rear Collision Mitigation Throttle Control(3) 4. Low Speed Brake Function*35.Unintended Acceleration Mitigation(2) 6. Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System 7. Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System 8. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow 9. Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) 10. Lead Car Departure Notification System 11. Traffic Sign Recognition 12. Auto High Beam Headlights 13. Blind Spot Information System (BSI) 14. Parking Sensor System 15. Cross Traffic Monitor(4)
Honda CONNECT
Honda CONNECT, an in-vehicle communication module equipped with new generation connected technologies, is also adopted for the first time in Odyssey. Customers can use the Honda Total Care Premium(5) connected service designed to enable them to enjoy the use of their vehicle with greater peace of mind and comfort. Including the ability to control the air-conditioning unit remotely using a smartphone and the in-vehicle WiFi connection that enhances the comfort of occupants during a long ride, the connected functions will contribute to the customers’ peace of mind and comfort.
(1) Honda SENSING functions are intended to assist the driver: therefore, there is a limit to the capabilities (e.g. recognition capability and control capability) of individual functions of Honda SENSING. Please do not overestimate the capabilities of each Honda SENSING function and drive safely while paying constant attention to your surroundings. For more information about Honda SENSING, please visit, Honda website: https://global.honda/en/tech/Safety_and_driver-assistive_technologies_Honda_SENSING/ (2) Under the factory default settings, this function will be off. To turn this function on, a separate setting process using special equipment at the dealership is required, for which a separate setting fee will be charged (dealer option). (3) The three functions – Collision Mitigation Throttle Control, Rear Collision Mitigation Throttle Control and Low Speed Brake Function – are collectively called Low Speed Braking Control. (4) To use this system, the navigation system is required. (5) Honda Total Care Premium is a subscription service that allows customers to choose the duration of their subscription with the minimum of one month based on their needs. Sign up is required to use this service. To use Honda Total Care Premium service, a Honda CONNECT- compatible navigation system is required.
Body colors
e:HEV ABSOLUTE Platinum White Pearl* Premium Venus Black Pearl* Formal Black
e:HEV ABSOLUTE・EX Platinum White Pearl* Meteoroid Gray Metallic* Premium Venus Black Pearl* Formal Black
e:HEV ABSOLUTE・EX BLACK EDITION Platinum White Pearl* Premium Venus Black Pearl* Formal Black
*There is an additional charge of 44,000 yen (40,000 yen excluding 10% consumption tax)
