DETROIT, Jan. 9, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The completely redesigned and reengineered 2017 Honda Ridgeline has been named the 2017 North American Truck of the Year (NATOTY) northamericancaroftheyear.org. Launched in June 2016, the 2017 Ridgeline includes a host of industry-exclusive standard and available features including unibody construction, a Dual Action Tailgate, In-Bed Trunk®, a scratch- and dent-resistant composite truck bed and the world’s first Truck Bed Audio System. The 2017 Ridgeline is also the first and only pickup to earn a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, when equipped with available front crash prevention system and LED headlights. It is the second consecutive year for Honda to earn a top honor, with the Honda Civic winning North American Car of the Year honors in 2016. Moreover, this marks Ridgeline’s second NACTOY award, the first coming in 2006, when the 2016 Honda Civic also won the 2006 North American Car of the Year.

“This award is a prized validation of the innovations and advantages the Ridgeline offers midsize pickup truck customers and a great recognition of the American development team’s work,” said John Mendel, Executive Vice President of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “This is a terrific way to kick off 2017, and we’re looking forward to sharing more innovative Honda products in the year ahead.”

The North American Truck of the Year Award is given by a group of over 50 members of the North American automotive media and is distinctive because it is not tied to a single publication, radio or television station but determined by an independent group of journalists from the United States and Canada. Presented each year at the opening of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, NACTOY recognizes the most outstanding vehicle of the year based on multiple factors including innovation, design, safety performance, handling, driver satisfaction and value.

The Ridgeline is a part of Honda’s expanded lineup of innovative light-truck models, including the HR-V crossover, the CR-V and Pilot SUVs and the new 2018 Odyssey minivan that will be revealed later today at NAIAS. Honda light truck sales hit an all-time high of 661,188 units in 2016, up 7 percent over the previous year.

About Honda
Honda offers a full line of reliable, fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive vehicles with advanced safety technologies through approximately 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. The Honda lineup includes the Fit, Civic, Accord and Clarity passenger cars, along with the HR-V, CR-V and Pilot sport/utility vehicles, Ridgeline pickup truck and the Odyssey minivan.

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for more than 30 years and currently operates 19 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2015, more than 99 percent of all Honda vehicles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

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DETROIT, Jan. 9, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — It almost isn’t fair. Toyota Camry, the best-selling car in America for the past 15 years, is about to ruffle some feathers. The eighth-generation sedan has gone through a total evolution, from a proven, dependable and safe car to one that also possesses a more exciting and emotional character, thanks to its newfound sporty performance and style.

The new Camry utilizes TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) which represents a completely new strategy to the way the company designs, engineers, and packages its vehicles. TNGA retains all of Toyota’s traditional values of superlative build quality and safety while injecting a fun driving experience that plays on all the senses. The physical manifestation is the usage of a new engine, transmission and GA-K platform.

“The all-new 2018 Camry is, without a doubt, the most captivating mid-size sedan we’ve ever produced,” said Bob Carter, Toyota senior vice president of automotive operations. “It delivers on everything Camry owners have come to expect from America’s best-selling car, and adds to it, jaw-dropping design, more advanced technology, cutting-edge safety systems, and stirring performance that raises it to an unparalleled level of excitement.”

“In order to create something that stirs people’s soul, we’ve laid out the concept of a new sedan that provides fun and excitement behind the wheel,” said Masato Katsumata, the Chief Engineer of the new Camry. “In developing the next-generation Toyota Camry, we were able to start with a clean slate, which allowed us to create a true driver’s car.”

Design Backstory

The Camry development team aimed for a styling design concept that achieves strong harmony between refinement and a sensual athletic image, creating a new approach to the market. The result is a new signature design language that takes the car into a beautiful and futuristic new direction.

There were three primary design goals when penning the all-new Camry: a distinctive, low center of gravity that results in a firm wide stance; a practical-yet-emotionally styled cabin profile, and a sporty and upscale image both inside and out. These design goals have resulted in a new type of sedan that’s both exciting to look at and, more importantly drive, reestablishing itself as the new standard in the midsize-sedan category.

An Exterior with Unexpected Attitude

The new Camry’s face is accentuated by a two-piece grille comprised of flowing thin and thick treatments – key elements of the Camry’s “Keen Look” design philosophy. The curvaceous 1.6-inch-lower hood sits neatly above the grille’s uppermost section which accommodates a commanding Toyota emblem. For the hybrid model, the emblem is tinged a distinct blue hue. This fashionable trifecta of grille, hood, and emblem blends flawlessly into the A-pillar, and produces a stance that is undoubtedly more aggressive than that of any predecessor.

The 2018 Camry has a sleeker profile than the current model. By lowering the hip points of the occupants (nearly 1.0-inch in the front and 1.2-inches at the rear), and therefore their seating positions, the design team was able to reduce the car’s overall vehicle height by approximately one inch  from the current model and incorporate a lower roofline, without sacrificing interior space. This invited the designers to pursue a wind-cutting shape and improve aerodynamics. Striking character lines around and along the body augment the aggressive front and rear fenders, giving the reimagined Camry a sportiness that’s never before been perceived on this model.

The lower hip point, shoulder line, roof line and hood height gives the new Camry the appearance that it has a low center of gravity, which it does. The design team knew the TNGA platform provided them with a great opportunity to pen a very expressive sedan, and they took advantage of this by getting the lines close to the ground and forming an energetic silhouette. They incorporated a strong stance that can be seen as you walk around the car.

Like the front of the vehicle, the rear features an athletic motif that melds flowing lines and complex shapes to form a sculpted landscape. Looking closely at the C-pillar’s detail reveals a multitude of surfaces that reflect light from all angles. A distinct crease extends from the slim multicolor taillights down to the bumper, effectively “pushing” the wheels outward in appearance to create a wide posture akin to that of a premium sports sedan. The exclamation point here is provided by a newly designed Camry logo that gives the car an upscale identity.

Camry will again be available in four grades: LE, XLE, SE and XSE. The new Camry’s “Sport” SE and XSE grades wear a noticeably different body style than the entry level LE and premium XLE grades, highlighted by a sculpted rocker panel, new 19-inch black machined-finish alloy wheels (XSE only)  a subtle rear spoiler lip, aggressive front bumper, and rear bumper with an integrated lower diffuser. The face is much more distinctive with large side intakes flanking the lower bumper’s unique “Catamaran” accents, a high and slim upper intake encompassing the central Toyota badge, and a powerfully expressive mesh grille. A revised rear bumper with distinctive corner lines and smoke-tinted rear combination lamps highlight the changes at the rear.

The Camry design team sought to make the new Camry sport models instantly recognizable and appear different from the other models from as far as 200 yards away.

Striking and Comfortable Cabin

The completely redesigned interior is a fusion of functionality, futuristic styling, and a high degree of personal space and craftsmanship. While the driver is situated in a sporty cockpit-type environment having gauges angled toward his or her direction, the front passenger is treated to a sense of openness and freedom that results from the innovative dashboard design. A key visual element of this driver-focused design concept is a sweeping yet elegant new character line that flows down from the instrument cluster and bisects the center console waterfall. The design of the entire front console strikes a smooth connection between the ease of use of all controls/systems and a handsome and modern sculptural look that is pleasing to the eye. All surfaces throughout the cabin—dashboard, instrument panel, center console, door trim, etc.—employ the highest grade of soft touch and premium materials. Using an approach typically used in home furnishings, the design utilizes a mix of tones and hues throughout a space rather than a strict color profile. The result is a cabin space having diverse colors and materials, and that enhances passenger comfort and visual satisfaction.

The front seats have been completely reengineered with improved ergonomics, providing maximum comfort with a newfound level of ease and engagement to match the new Camry’s elevated performance and athleticism. Rear-seat accommodations are more refined than ever with improved roominess and ergonomics. Exquisite stitching on the front- and rear-seat surfaces is but one example of the high level of craftsmanship found throughout the vehicle.

High Interaction, Minimal Distraction

The new Camry features Toyota’s latest Human Machine Interface (HMI) whose next-generation display technology offers a unique level of integrated information with minimal distraction. It relays information through three interlinked displays: available interlinked displays: a 10-inch color Head-Up Display (HUD); a seven-inch multi-information display within the instrument cluster, and an eight-inch audio/navigation display and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) control panel that’s seamlessly integrated into the center console in a modern, flush-surface design. Convenient and highly intuitive operation is assured through customizable features and smart phone-like touch screen icons that create a seamless connection and user workflow between the HMI system and other digital media.

Full Utilization of Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA)

The 2018 Toyota Camry fully incorporates the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA). At its foundation, TNGA is a structural reform movement for the entire company that will result in cars that are more dynamic, athletic, and fun to drive.

By extending the wheelbase by two inches, as well as bringing down the roof and hood height (by approximately 1.0 and 1.6-inches, respectively), the development team lowered the center of gravity and created a wider and more composed vehicle. The new platform also allows for an ideal seating position for the driver, now lower and near the center of the car for enhanced feedback, along with adjusting the overall seating position for all the vehicle’s occupants. A lower heel point provides more foot room and ease of movement. The range of steering column adjustment has been increased from the current vehicle, while the hood, cowl, and dashboard height have all been lowered for enhanced outward visibility.

The driver and front passenger will experience an unprecedented sense of outward visibility, thanks to a more compact design for the instrument panel and a lowered beltline. The reimagined position of the A-pillar and side mirror sections results in enhanced lateral visibility and creates a noticeable sense of openness when the driver sits behind the wheel.

All Gain With No MPG Pain

Three new powertrains will be available on the new 2018 Camry: They include a new 3.5-liter V6 with D-4S Fuel Injection and an all-new 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine, which comes paired to a new 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission (8AT), and a next-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS II).

To match the chassis’ increased handling and performance capability, Toyota engineers have developed the TNGA-inspired all-new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine to make the most of the platform’s enhanced designs, packaging and rigidity. This new generation engine focuses on higher torque, higher power and lower fuel consumption in total use range. This is accomplished by achieving rapid combustion due to higher tumble air flow. With its long-stroke and high compression ratio, multi-hole direct fuel injectors, variable cooling system and the latest version of Toyota’s Variable Valve-Timing-intelligent Electric (VVT-iE), this high-output powerplant takes the gasoline-powered internal combustion engine to a new level with world-leading thermal efficiency of 40 percent. Along with enhanced performance characteristics, the new engine is also expected to be extremely fuel efficient, and is anticipated to achieve best-in-class fuel economy. It comes mated to the newly developed Direct Shift-8AT transmission that provides direct-lock up from gears two through eight to eliminate power loss from the torque converter, executing shifts like a high-performance automated manual gearbox.

The new hybrid system has also been engineered to provide the ideal balance of energy efficiency with superior power output to maximize driving performance and enjoyment. The next-generation Toyota Hybrid System has been engineered to work in concert with the new 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine setup offering significantly more driving excitement than before. The hybrid’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) features a new Sport Mode setting that allows the driver to execute smooth yet quick “gear” shifts of the simulated 6-speed sequential shift transmission. The SE grade adds paddle shifters for increased fun and a more sporting driving experience. The Sport Mode setting also improves acceleration and feel thanks to an electric power boost from the hybrid system. Furthermore, to help enhance the vehicle’s handling capability, the hybrid system’s battery pack has moved from the trunk to beneath the rear seat for a noticeably enriched handling feel, thanks to the vehicle’s much improved lower center of gravity—yet another benefit of the TNGA platform.

In addition to its enhanced handling and driving performance, the hybrid version of the new Camry is anticipated to achieve best-in-class fuel economy ratings, with Prius-like city/highway driving efficiency.

A New Experience Focused on Vastly Superior Driving Dynamics

At the foundation of the Camry’s sporty handling and enhanced ride quality is its high-strength body/platform structure. Through the increased use of ultra-high-tensile steel and the application of a new molding technology it delivers enhanced structural rigidity.

Further aiding performance is an innovative new double wishbone rear suspension system that imbues the chassis with responsive handling and precise steering control while simultaneously delivering ride quality on par with premium luxury vehicles. A new four-point engine mounting system adds to the vehicle’s civil road manners as it greatly reduces unwanted noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) from permeating into the passenger compartment.

The biggest challenge for the Camry engineering team was to figure out how to convey the driving dynamics of a soul-stirring sedan. Driving dynamics were always at the forefront of the engineering philosophy for the new Camry. They wanted a new Camry in which the driver will be highly impressed with the handling capability and composure of the new design. So much so, that drivers will notice the dramatic improvements within the first few seconds of driving.

Toyota Safety That Makes Sense

Among the many safety features on the 2018 Camry is standard Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P). This multi-feature advanced active safety suite bundles cutting edge active safety technologies including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA 2/SA); and Automatic High Beams (AHB). Select models will also come with standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

All 2018 Camry’s have 10 standard airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System™, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology^®. All Camry’s also come equipped with a standard backup camera.

Ever Better Entune™ 3.0 Multimedia For Everyone

Camry drivers will be the first to enjoy enhanced connectivity and entertainment through the new Toyota Entune™ 3.0 multimedia system. The new 2018 Camry will feature Entune 3.0 on all models, offering an enhanced set of connected vehicle technologies.

The Entune 3.0 system will feature navigation and App Suite Connect for everyone. All Camry four-cylinder and hybrid models will come standard with the Connected Navigation Scout GPS Link with Moving Maps.  Camry V6 models will offer the new Dynamic Navigation system, providing improved map accuracy.  The wireless map updates provide over-the-air map downloads of recently added roads and point-of-interest not contained in the existing head unit map.  

Entune 3.0 delivers several new technologies including available Remote Connect, which provides remote start and door unlock capability, vehicle status notifications, a guest driver monitor, and vehicle finder. Keeping up with your vehicle’s health status has never been easier. Available Service Connect will provide up-to-date vehicle information on fuel level, maintenance alerts, and more.  Entune 3.0 will also offer available WiFi Connect, allowing up to five mobile devices to connect using 4G LTE.

The new 2018 Camry will also offer a JBL premium audio system that features new advancements in sound quality. Sound enhancements include Sound Staging, which positions speakers directly in front of the listener to help emulate a live concert venue; Low Frequency Sounds, made possible by an added 10.1-inch subwoofer; Clari-Fi, a technology that “un-compresses” music to help restore an audio track’s dynamic range; and nine speakers that are specifically tuned to the Camry’s cabin dimensions and materials.

History of Camry

Sold in more than 100 countries, the Toyota Camry is the most popular mid-size sedan in the world and is the segment leader in many global markets where it is available. Introduced in Japan in 1982, the Camry was Toyota’s first mass-produced vehicle with a transverse engine layout. Its welcomed combination of affordability with superior packaging, quality and engineering was a revolutionary concept, allowing the Camry to distinguish itself from other, notably larger American sedans that were popular at the time. One could say it was a pioneer in establishing the midsize-sedan segment. In the following years, the Camry became a sales success everywhere it was sold. Today, Camry remains a key model in the Toyota lineup and is manufactured in 10 different plants around the globe, with total sales surpassing 18 million units.

For nearly three decades, Camry’s American manufacturing home has been Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky (TMMK) in Georgetown, Ky. Most Camrys sold in America are assembled in Georgetown by thousands of proud American workers. This pride has been reflected by the fact Camry is the best-selling car in America and has held this sales crown for 15 consecutive years!  Overall Camry sales in the U.S. since it first launched back in 1983 have surpassed 10 million units, and counting.

The all-new 2018 Toyota Camry will begin rolling into Toyota dealers in late summer 2017.

ALL-NEW 2018 CAMRY PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

Advanced Powertrains

• All-new 2.5-liter four-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine paired with a new Direct Shift-8AT
• 3.5-liter V6 with D-4S Fuel Injection
• Next-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS II) with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Simulated six-speed sequential shift transmission on all Hybrid grades (paddle shifters on Hybrid SE grade only)

Safety and Convenience

• Standard Toyota Safety Sense package includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Full-speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control System (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA), Automatic High Beam (AHB)
• Available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) with Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB),
• Available Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan
• Enhanced body structure/platform through a new high-strength body that offers increased occupant protection in the event of a side or front collision/impact in offset or head-on collisions

NOTE TO EDITORS:  Photos and video to accompany this story are available and can be retrieved in digital form by media without charge at http://www.toyotanewsroom.com.

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DETROIT, Jan. 8, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Second Annual Diversity Volume Leadership Awards (DVL Awards) ceremony showed the tremendous impact that ethnic car buyers have on the economy and brought awareness to the lack of diversity that still remains present in the automotive industry.

“Some 30% of new vehicle purchases are made by multicultural consumers but only 6% of dealerships are minority owned,” said National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD) President, Damon Lester. “That means 18,000 dealerships exist in the USA and just 1,100 are minority owned.”

With ethnic car buyers growing at rapid rates, the dealer body is still lacking accurate representation from minorities. NAMAD and IHS Markit partnered to celebrate brands that are driving sales leadership with ethnic consumers while also addressing and educating the industry about the necessity of dealer ownership increasing to reflect a diverse population during the DVL Awards on January 8, 2017 at Cobo Center. The private awards ceremony was hosted by Kellie Aponte and brought together scores of top automotive industry  executives.

Winners of the prestigious DVL Awards demonstrated the highest new vehicle registrations with ethnic, women, and millennial consumers. This year’s awards were based on an analysis of more than 13 million personal new vehicle registrations from IHS Markit.

“The Diversity Volume Leadership Awards were designed to educate the entire auto industry including manufacturers, dealers, suppliers and automotive media,” said Marc Bland, vice-president of Diversity and Inclusion, IHS Markit.

This year, NAMAD and IHS Markit honored American Honda with the “Top Overall Ethnic Vehicle” DVL Award. “Top Overall Ethnic Vehicle” is the most sought-after Diversity Volume Leadership honor for automotive brands dedicated to driving sales leadership with Asian, Native American, Hispanic and African American car buyers.  

NAMAD and IHS Markit also presented awards for leadership in the following categories: Ethnic Volume Leaders by IHS Markit Regions, Volume Leaders – Millennials and Women, and Volume Leaders by Ethnic Consumer Group.

The best automotive brands that have dedicated marketing resources to ethnic consumers and are focused on capitalizing on the rapid growth of the industry were in attendance to collect their awards. Overall, GM and its brands received five DVL Awards, Honda-seven DVL Awards, Toyota/Lexus-seven DVL Awards, Ford-two DVL Awards, Nissan-three DVL Awards, and FCA-one DVL Award. It is important to note that several of the nominees that did not receive awards were still extremely competitive contenders. Those who did not receive an award now have the insight and motivation to develop an improved strategy for 2017 and beyond.

Winners of the 2017 Diversity Volume Leadership Awards are as follows:

Connect with DVL Awards:
Hashtag: #DVLawards and #DVLawards2017
Website: www.namad.org 
Twitter: twitter.com/NAMAD_USA 
Facebook: facebook.com/NAMAD_USA-468806139894019 

SPONSORS

The Diversity Volume Leadership Awards would not be possible without the generous sponsorship from the following organizations:

About The National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers

The National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers’ (NAMAD) objective is to pursue the meaningful presence and participation of minority businesses and diverse employees across all aspects of the automotive economic sector, including:

• Increasing the number of minority-owned dealerships in communities across America
• Advocating workplace and supplier diversity in the automotive manufacturing environment
• Supporting minority engagement in the automotive retail sales and service sectors

We are committed to developing strategic relationships and advocating for the advancement of business policies and practices that ensure diversity and economic parity remain a priority in all aspects of the American automotive industry.

NAMAD is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area. For information on National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers visit: www.namad.org

About IHS Markit (www.ihsmarkit.com)

IHS Markit (NASDAQ: INFO) is the automotive industry’s leading source for market-wide insight, expertise and advanced planning solutions. With a reputation of enabling better decisions and better results for nearly a century, the world’s leading OEMs, suppliers and their transportation partners rely on IHS Markit to power growth, improve efficiency and drive a sustainable competitive advantage.

Automotive offerings and expertise at IHS Markit span every major market and, the entire automotive value chain — from product planning to marketing, sales and the aftermarket. Headquartered in London, our automotive team is part of IHS Markit’s information and analytics powerhouse that includes more than 15,000 colleagues in 150 countries, covering energy, chemical, aerospace and defense, maritime, financial, technology, media and telecommunications. For additional information, please visit www.ihsmarkit.com or email [email protected].

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Honda announced today that it will conduct the first proof-of-concept demonstration of in-vehicle payments with infrastructure parking and fueling partners at 2017 CES in Las Vegas as part of its ongoing partnership with Visa Inc.  The demonstrations will be done with fuel pumps from Gilbarco Veeder-Root and smart parking meters from IPS Group, Inc.  Show attendees can experience the demonstrations at the Honda booth (LVCC, North Hall – 7312) during CES, January 5-8, 2017.  

Developed by the Honda Developer Studio, the fuel and parking proof-of-concepts offer a quick and seamless in-vehicle payment solution, delivered through smartphone integrations. Honda and Visa first joined forces last year and they are now joined by Gilbarco Veeder-Root and IPS Group, Inc. in collaborating in the effort to transform the way consumers make in-vehicle payments for every day services such as gasoline and public parking.  

“Payments have evolved from physical plastic cards to a digital, mobile wallet and Honda sees this as an opportunity to bring this technology into the car to pay for services from the comfort of one’s own car,” said John Moon, Developer Relations Lead at Honda Developer Studio. “Together with Visa’s payment technology expertise and new partners like Gilbarco Veeder-Root and IPS Group, Inc. who are experts in their fields we can create a whole new in-vehicle experience for our customers focused on simplicity and convenience.”

Drivers are notified that they can pay for fuel or parking when they are near a smart parking meter or fuel pump. Depending on the services, the purchase amount is displayed in the dashboard and drivers confirm payment with the touch of a button. Honda is currently in discussion with a number of other companies that will continue to help ease the various innovative payment processes of other car-based transactions.

“Turning the car into a platform for payments offers a nearly endless array of ways for automakers, drivers, merchants and other infrastructure companies to completely transform tasks that are tied to cars in some shape or form,” said Avin Arumugam, senior vice president, Internet of things (IoT), Visa Inc. “Working with Honda, we both see the huge opportunity this presents for our respective industries, and how we can collectively simplify many daily tasks from the car.”

IPS Group, Inc. Parking Meter Demo
IPS Group, Inc. (ipsgroup.com) is an innovative Smart Parking leader best known as the developer of the patented IPS credit card-enabled, solar-powered smart parking meters seen on public streets in hundreds of cities throughout North America and Europe. Honda, Visa and IPS Group, Inc. have partnered to make locating and paying for parking fast and easy, so that drivers will never have to scramble for change or even exit the vehicle to pay for parking at a meter.

The process begins when the driver is notified of available smart parking. The driver then simply selects the time increment needed and pays for parking, and the meter displays the time purchased. Drivers will also be able to add additional time to the meter from the convenience of their mobile phone.

“We are excited to partner with prominent innovative technology leaders like Honda and Visa in order to pave the way for a Smart Cities solutions,” said Dave King, President and CEO of IPS Group, Inc.

Gilbarco Veeder-Root Demo
Gilbarco-Veeder-Root has also joined the partnership to enable drivers to pay for fuel from their vehicle, making the experience more secure and convenient while also creating opportunities for retailers to reach consumers in new ways to drive enhanced consumer loyalty and sales.

Once the car is parked next to a pump, drivers are notified that they can pay from their car.  The driver selects the amount of gas they would like to fill up and the cost to fill it up is automatically calculated by the app. Focusing on security and convenience, this refueling concept is easy-to-use.

The goal of Honda’s partnership with the Visa, Gilbarco Veeder-Root and IPS Group, Inc. is to create an innovative in-vehicle experience focusing on making daily life more efficient and comfortable for customers. CES attendees are invited to experience the Honda and Visa demonstration during the show, January 5-8, 2017, at the Honda booth #7312.

For videos and photos featuring the In-vehicle demos please visit www.hondanews.com.

About Visa Inc.
Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) is a global payments technology company that connects consumers, businesses, financial institutions, and governments in more than 200 countries and territories to fast, secure and reliable electronic payments. We operate one of the world’s most advanced processing networks — VisaNet — that is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second, with fraud protection for consumers and assured payment for merchants. Visa is not a bank and does not issue cards, extend credit or set rates and fees for consumers. Visa’s innovations, however, enable its financial institution customers to offer consumers more choices: pay now with debit, ahead of time with prepaid or later with credit products. For more information, visitusa.visa.com/about-visa, visacorporate.tumblr.com and @VisaNews.

About Honda Developer Studio
Honda Developer Studio (HDS) is an open innovation initiative that enables developers to work directly with Honda engineers to create apps that are road-ready more quickly. For more information, visit https://developer.hondasvl.com/ and follow along on Twitter at @HondaDeveloper.

About Honda Technology
Honda is creating technologies and products that advance the company’s clean, safe, fun and connected brand values. These efforts include advancements in automated vehicles, connectivity and ultra-low carbon mobility.  In North America, the company has more than 300,000 vehicles on the road equipped with the Honda Sensing or AcuraWatch safety and driver-assistive technologies and nearly 400,000 vehicles featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™compatibility.  Honda also is testing advanced automated vehicle technologies in Japan and North America and is targeting 2020 for the deployment of highly automated vehicles on U.S. highways.  Honda also is working to fulfill its environmental and safety vision: “to realize the joy and freedom of mobility and a sustainable society where people can enjoy life.”  Toward this target, Honda is striving to make two-thirds of its global automobile sales from hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electrified vehicles including fuel cell and battery electric vehicles by around 2030. 

About Gilbarco Veeder-Root
Gilbarco Veeder-Root is the worldwide technology leader for retail and commercial fueling operations. They offer the broadest range of integrated solutions from the forecourt to the convenience store and head office. For almost 150 years, Gilbarco has earned the trust of its customers by providing long-term partnership, uncompromising support and proven reliability. Major product lines include: fuel dispensers, pump media, point of sale systems, payment systems, tank gauges, software development and integration, fleet management systems and nozzles.

About IPS Group, Inc.
IPS Group Inc., (www.ipsgroup.com) is headquartered in San Diego, Calif. (USA), with offices in Canada and Europe. IPS is a design, engineering and manufacturing company focused on low power wireless telecommunications, payment processing systems and parking technologies and has been delivering world-class solutions to the telecommunications and parking industries for over 20 years. The company offers a fully integrated smart product suite comprised of single-space meters, multi-space pay stations, pay station upgrade kits, vehicle detection sensors, smart cash collection systems, and SaaS management software with advanced data analytics. IPS converts the concepts of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Cities into reality for transportation and parking operations all over the world.

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LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Continuing its pursuit of open innovation and collaboration, Honda is showcasing projects with startup companies LEIA and VocalZoom at CES 2017.  In collaboration with the Honda Xcelerator, these two innovators’ technologies aim to revolutionize the in-cabin experience.

Together, Honda Xcelerator and LEIA have developed a new 3D driver display demonstration that leverages nanotechnology to provide seamless transitions between different viewing angles for warnings and driver-assistive systems.  VocalZoom has been working with Honda Xcelerator to apply its optical microphone technology to improve voice interaction inside the vehicle.

“We’re flexible, innovator friendly, and look for unique opportunities to work closely with partners to co-create and showcase advanced technology,” said Dennis Clark, strategic alliance lead at Honda Xcelerator.  “Our focus at CES is to showcase our work with two of our partners–LEIA and VocalZoom–to apply their unique technologies to enhance the in-car experience.”

Honda Xcelerator

Honda Xcelerator is an open innovation program designed to facilitate collaboration between early stage technology startups and global Honda. Honda created the program to engage innovators in an open and supportive environment.  The program offers funding for rapid prototyping, a collaborative workspace and pairing with Honda mentors.

3D Driver Display

LEIA is a technology spin-off of HP Labs and a provider of the leading holographic display solution for mobile. The LEIA 3D display provides a comfortable, natural form of 3D that is easier to look at, which is important for the in-car experience. It also gives designers and developers a new tool for building a more appealing user experience.

Although 3D can be distracting if it isn’t designed correctly, LEIA’s nanotech approach presents depth in a way that feels natural. As a result, when the driver moves his or her head while looking at the screen, the content changes aspect continuously and allows for multi-view 3D imagery.

“LEIA uses nanotechnology to control the emission of light from its displays,” said David Fattal, LEIA Inc.’s Founder and CEO. “This is a brand new technique that produces multi-view 3D – holographic – content with an unprecedented level of quality and visual comfort for several viewers at a time. Moreover, the displays are entirely switchable to standard 2D viewing mode so there is virtually no downside in using them.”

Honda sees a number of potential applications for this technology, from navigation to traffic information, that can be leveraged to provide a more intuitive, convenient and safe in-cabin experience for customers.

Optical Sensor Technology

VocalZoom is a leading supplier of Human-to-Machine Communication (HMC) optical sensors that enable a more natural, personalized and secure voice-control experience and has been working with Honda Xcelerator to apply its technology to the in-car experience.

VocalZoom’s optical sensor “reads” facial skin vibrations during speech, enabling it to isolate a driver’s voice from all of the other background sounds in the car.  The result is clean, isolated driver commands that are significantly easier for automotive voice-recognition systems to understand and obey than was previously possible with traditional voice-control solutions. In a proof-of-concept demo at Honda’s CES display, attendees can experience the VocalZoom technology.

“We are very excited to be at CES with Honda demonstrating a disruptive new voice-control and voice-authentication experience in the connected car,” said Rammy Bahalul, vice president of sales and business development for VocalZoom.  “VocalZoom’s optical sensor is re-defining Human-to-Machine Communication by delivering seamless, near-perfect performance even with background noise from open windows, engine noise, music playing, passenger conversations and other interference.” 

Honda at CES

Honda’s display theme at CES 2017 is a Cooperative Mobility Ecosystem, connecting the power of artificial intelligence, robotics, and big data to transform the mobility experience.  Under this umbrella the company is showcasing a number of prototype technologies developed from its R&D division as well as collaborations with startups, partners and global tech companies. For more information, visit honda.us/CES2017.

About Honda Technology
Honda is creating technologies and products that advance the company’s clean, safe, fun and connected brand values. These efforts include advancements in automated vehicles, connectivity and ultra-low carbon mobility.  In North America, the company has more than 300,000 vehicles on the road equipped with the Honda Sensing or AcuraWatch safety and driver-assistive technologies and more than 400,000 vehicles featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility.  Honda also is testing advanced automated vehicle technologies in Japan and North America and is targeting 2020 for the deployment of highly automated vehicles on U.S. highways.  Honda also is working to fulfill its environmental and safety vision: “to realize the joy and freedom of mobility and a sustainable society where people can enjoy life.”  Toward this target, Honda is striving to make two-thirds of its global automobile sales from hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electrified vehicles including fuel cell and battery electric vehicles by around 2030. 

About LEIA Inc
Founded in 2014 by David Fattal, Zhen Peng and Pierre Evreux, LEIA Inc is a technology spin-off from Hewlett-Packard laboratories developing a Lightfield display technology platform for naked-eye holographic and virtual reality applications. It focuses today on the mobile and automotive markets, with first devices expected in the hands of consumer by the end of 2017. The company is based in Menlo Park, CA with operations in Suzhou, China. Learn more at www.leia3d.com.

About VocalZoom
VocalZoom supplies Human-to-Machine Communication (HMC) sensors for delivering a natural, personalized and secure voice-controlled user experience in today’s increasingly mobile and interconnected world. The sensors enable accurate and reliable voice control and biometrics authentication in any environment, regardless of noise. Applications include mobile secure payments, headsets and wearables, mobile phones, access control, smart home solutions, and hands-free automotive voice control. For more information, visit www.VocalZoom.com and follow the company on LinkedIn.

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