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Honda Civic IMA Versus Focus C-Max FFV
I have previously reviewed both of these cars for EM. The Honda IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) has the additional weight of energy storage batteries. These are designed to be charged from the energy generated (and usually wasted) by the slowing down motion of the car for use when next accelerating. Additionally, the computers decide what power to use in various driving scenarios – engine or battery. The batteries kick in during low speed cruising as well and in some circumstances you’ll be propelled forward by battery power alone. The computer also shuts down the engine completely when stopped at the traffic lights and other stop/start scenarios. I found it easy to use though there are some criticisms out there that the process is jerky (which I didn’t find), to dangerous (you have to be quick to apply the brakes to prevent rolling back when the engine cuts out - not experienced by me). This could only be done with the automatic CVT gearbox fitted. The whole process of 1400cc engine/batteries benefits by using less fuel when accelerating hence its "green" and energy efficient credentials. The car attracts a reduced VRT charge from the government who otherwise seem happy to spend taxpayers’ money on green credits rather than offer incentives like this for us all to be that bit greener and energy conscious.
I found driving the IMA, which has a Hybrid sign on the back, exactly like your typical Honda - intuitively simple. The driving dynamics were not compromised by the additional weight of the batteries and the whole experience was as usually expected. The Hybrid driving experience to most drivers is as you’d expect from a “normal” car with the added benefit of doing your bit for the environment.
The Focus C-Max FFV (FlexiFuel Vehicle) runs on Bio-Fuel. There is very little difference between this and a normal C-Max. The claims for the FFV are that it offers an overall 70% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to the same petrol-only model. You get this by taking account of the CO2 absorbed by the crop when grown prior to harvest for bio ethanol production. I didn’t drive the FFV vehicle immediately after driving a normal C-Max so I’m relying on memory to determine a difference. I didn’t recall any noticeable difference I am glad to report. The Bio-Fuel and normal petrol go into the same tank and can be freely mixed. There are a growing number of garages selling Bio-Fuel nationwide in an industry where garages are disappearing. Is that an oxymoron or a paradox? As with the Honda IMA there is no user impact / inconveniences if you choose either of these cars.
In these changing times there will be more and more cars becoming available with green(er) credentials and provided they meet the driving requirements of the motorist they shall be welcome.
These two are a good example of what’s required.
