Mugen’s Latest Honda CR-Z Adds Supercharger, Offers 197 Horsepower

We first heard about Mugen’s Honda CR-Z project last month, which was welcome news for those who were disappointed with the stock CR-Z’s “sporty” performance. At that point, details on the project were mostly speculation, but we now have new info on Mugen’s plans to improve the CR-Z’s performance credentials.

First off, a supercharger has been stuffed under the hood. While it doesn’t provide the 200+ horsepower Mugen claimed last month, the blower does increase the stock 1.5-liter four-cylinder i-VTEC engine’s horsepower output from 112 to 184 horsepower. Torque increases from 107 to 123 foot-pounds. MUGEN states that the Integrated Motor Assist electric motor will remain untouched and will continue to put out 13 horsepower and 58 foot-pound of torque. Combined, that’s 197hp/181 lb-ft compared to stock engine’s output of 125hp/165 lb-ft.

To ensure transitions between electric and gasoline power remain smooth, Mugen has developed a mysterious system it dubs iCF system. Mugen reps have shied away from offering a clear answer to the system’s workings or purpose, but it appears iCF staggers the electric motor’s torque delivery in a way to provide a smooth, seamless wall of torque. Mugen Euro’s Colin Whittamore suggests the system “gives a smooth and integrated powerful driving experience,” but until we actually staggers the and complementary electronics allow us to very neatly map the IMA to the extra power and torque of the engine in a unique package, giving a smooth and integrated powerful driving experience,” said Colin Whittamore from MUGEN Euro.

We first tested the CR-Z last year and were somewhat disenchanted with its handling, which felt far more hybrid than hot hatch. Luckily, handling is one of Mugen’s specialties, and the latest take on the CR-Z wears 5-step adjustable dampers, an increase in track width, and lightweight 17-inch forged Mugen GP aluminum wheels.

The bad news? MUGEN still claims this is only a prototype, and at this stage, there are still no firm plans for production. Still, the fact they have continued to work on the CR-Z project and have released some solid performance figures leaves us hopeful that this hopped-up hybrid may eventually — perhaps even soon — become reality.

Source;
http://rumors.automobilemag.com/mugen-continues-work-honda-cr-project-42719.html

2010 SEMA Preview: Wraptivo Producing Custom Honda CR-Z “Type-F” Concept

We have the inside track on Wraptivo’s 2010 SEMA plans and the big news is the announcement of thir Honda CR-Z “Type-F” custom SEMA build. While there will be a few other CR-Z projects making their way to the SEMA floor most are top secret. Wraptivo has decided to go against the norm and are releasing nearly everything planned for their build. That includes showing off this beautiful rendering created by Jon Sibal of what the “Type-F” concept could possibly look like when its completed.

Wraptivo has several upgrades planned for their Type-F CR-Z including a suspension package from Tein, a ECU tune by Hondata, Volk Racing wheels, flat black/carbon fiber vinyl wrap scheme, and HKS Supercharger. Yes, that’s right. Wraptivo, with the help of HKS are supercharging a hybrid. Somewhere a tree-hugger is crying… Scroll down below for the size image and press release!

Source with the press release;
http://www.motorworldhype.com/2010-09-01/2010-sema-preview-wraptivo-producing-custom-honda-cr-z-type-f-concept-andy/

C-West Developing Aero For Honda CR-Z, Insight And RX-8

Kansai aero parts specialists C-West have also got their hands on Honda’s latests hybrids and will soon have aero kits available.

It seems that companies would be crazy not to offer at least something for the Honda CR-Z with customers starting to take delivery of their new cars now. I’ve seen a few CR-Zs on the streets in and around Osaka and Kobe and it looks very slick in the metal. C-West makes some very good looking (and functional) aero kits and the new design in store for the CR-Z looks to continue that tradition. The CR-Z isn’t the only car to receive attention though, the Honda Insight and Mazda RX-8 are also in line to get some C-West treatment. More info will be available nearer to the release date but for now, we have these renders to give us a good idea of what to expect.

Source;

http://www.7tune.com/c-west-developing-aero-for-honda-cr-z-insight-and-rx-8/