Development of Intelligent Power Unit for the 2018 Model Year Accord Hybrid 2019-01-0592

A compact intelligent power unit capable of being installed under rear seating was developed for the 2018 model year Accord Hybrid that is to be equipped with the SPORT HYBRID Intelligent Multi Mode Drive (i-MMD) system. The lithium-ion battery module was made more compact than in previous models, the structural parts were integrated, and the cooling structure was optimized. A 12 V DC-DC converter was also integrated with the power control unit in the engine compartment, making the intelligent power unit compact enough to install under the rear seat. As a result, the vehicle gained trunk room equal to gasoline-powered automobiles and realized a structure allowing continuous open space from the trunk through to the rear passenger compartment. The increased compactness also achieved a 10% reduction in weight.