Honda is set to unveil its CR-V Hybrid Prototype at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, previewing the brand’s first-ever electrified SUV powertrain available in Europe. The Hybrid Prototype also features revised styling that previews the forthcoming European specification CR-V model range. The carmaker had earlier showcased the CR-V hybrid at Shanghai Motor show 2017 as well.

The CR-V Hybrid Prototype represents the first time that the all-new CR-V has been shown at a European motor show. It retains the familiar silhouette of the world’s best-selling SUV, but with an evolutionary design that is sophisticated and sporty. Wider, taller and longer than the previous version, the Hybrid Prototype of the new CR-V has fresh exterior styling and a wider stance due to the broader, muscular wheel arches.

The two-motor Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system in the CR-V Hybrid Prototype comprises an electric propulsion motor, a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder i-VTEC Atkinson cycle petrol engine (for electrical energy generation and propulsion), and a separate electric generator motor. The hybrid system does not need a conventional transmission, and is instead fitted with a single fixed-gear ratio that creates a direct connection between moving components, enabling a smooth transfer of torque within the system.

The i-MMD system determines how to use fuel and electrical energy in the most efficient way, meaning there is no requirement on the driver to adjust between the three driving modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive.

In EV Drive, the propulsion motor draws its power solely from the batteries, delivering zero-emission driving. In Hybrid Drive, the gasoline engine supplies power to the electric generator motor that in turn delivers power to the electric propulsion motor. In this mode, excess power from the gasoline engine is diverted back via the generator motor to recharge the battery pack. In Engine Drive, the wheels are directly driven by the gasoline engine, with an ‘on-demand’ peak power ‘boost’ available from the electric propulsion motor.

In most urban driving situations, the vehicle will move between Hybrid Drive and EV Drive for optimum efficiency. Engine Drive is engaged as needed for brisk acceleration and for efficient highway driving.

The 2018 CR-V will also be specified with Honda’s 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo petrol engine, with a choice of either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The all-new CR-V will not feature a diesel powertrain in European markets.

More details about the all-new Honda CR-V for Europe will be confirmed when the production-specification vehicle is unveiled early next year. The new SUV will be officially launched in European markets in 2018.

For India, Honda is likely to bring the CR-V diesel with seven seats sometime next year.