Honda shoved an IndyCar powertrain right into a CR-V Hybrid

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 device and a rolling laboratory.

Referred to as the CR-V Hybrid Racer, it is constructed round a customized body and packs the brand new hybrid powertrain Honda is creating 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} power 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 contains 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 an everyday CR-V that is been slammed. Every little thing from the waistline up is definitely inventory CR-V, together with the metal physique, home windows, and even a sunroof. Beneath 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 operating March 3-5 in Florida. The race serves because the opening spherical of the 2023 IndyCar season. The idea car will present up at a variety of further IndyCar rounds and in some instances will make observe 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 outfitted with a hydrogen gasoline cell powertrain.