The Honda Accord can now drive with no hands
Honda has introduced in Japan a new Accord sedan with an upgraded Sensing 360+ partially automated driving system. Thanks to this system, the driver will be able to take his hands off the steering wheel on motorways.
Here's What We Know
Previously, the Honda Accord for the home market came standard with the Sensing 360 system, which is a bundle of adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking functions. The new version of the system with a "+" in the name represents the next stage in the evolution of the electronic driving assistant.
Honda Sensing 360+ uses information not only from radar and sensors, but also from the satellite navigation system. If there are no other cars ahead, the Accord will maintain a set speed. And if another car appears, the sedan will follow it, keeping a safe distance. At the same time, having detected a slower-moving vehicle, the system will notify about it in advance and will help to get ahead.
The interior of the Honda Accord. Photo: Honda
However, to full automation is still far away. When activating the electronic assistant, the driver still has to keep an eye on the road. And also the new function is available only on highways.
Honda Sensing 360+ complex also includes a system of assistance in passing corners. If it detects that the car is travelling too fast, it will first warn the driver to slow down, and if there is no reaction, it will start slowing down itself. Finally, the kit includes an improved driver monitoring system: if the person behind the wheel does not react to the warning visual and audible signals, the Honda Accord will gradually begin to slow down, then stop, switch on the emergency signal and call for help.
In Japan, the Honda Accord is available in an e:HEV hybrid version in which the 2.0-litre petrol engine is assisted by an electric motor. The power of the system reaches 207 hp, and the drive is front-wheel drive. Prices start at 5.6 million yen (about 34,310 euros or $38,947).
Source: Honda
