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Honda releases driving simulator kit to teach safe, green driving

 
2 3,068 views May 22, 2009

honda safety navi simulator 005

The PC-based simulator comes complete with wheel and pedal set

The PC-based simulator comes complete with wheel and pedal set

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Driving simulators can vary from arcade-like video games to serious training aids for racing drivers, but so far few if any have put the emphasis on safe, green driving. Honda is hoping to change that with its latest release, however - a simulator dubbed 'Honda Safety Navi'.

The system comes with software plus a steering wheel and pedal kit to enable controls that mimic real-world conditions. But instead of setting the hottest lap at Monza, drivers will be learning the rules of the road, how to drive safely in inclement weather or at night, and how to get the best fuel efficiency out of a car.

Two modes are available: 'Eco-Drive', which teaches the best practices of green driving, and 'SD Coacher' which helps drivers learn safe and defensive driving skills.

Initially, the software will only available in Japan, and Honda hasn't yet announced any plans to bring it to the U.S., but the company says it is pricing it to be widely available. That leaves the door open, at least, for eventual U.S. release.

Honda's interpretation of 'affordable' is up for debate, however. The software alone is priced at ¥200,000 (about $2,100) before taxes, while the software and hardware combo (includes wheel and pedals) goes for ¥283,809 (about $2,993).

On the other hand, the software isn't intended for home use, but for commercial fleets, car dealers and government agencies to be able to help improve their drivers' car handling skills and knowledge without logging actual vehicle miles. So in comparison to actual in-car training, the system is a relative bargain.

It is already rolling out in Japan this week. Honda hopes to sell up to 200 units per year.
Honda Safety Navi PC driving simulator

HI-RES GALLERY: honda safety navi simulator 005




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Comments (2)

  1. ma_AMG55 avatar AMG55 Posted: 5/23/2009 8:41am PDT

    Teach Green driving huh? I think I'll pass thank you very much..
     
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  2. ma_Tornado avatar Tornado Posted: 5/25/2009 12:19pm PDT

    I could see some brain damaged environmentalist wacko getting this and forcing their kid to play it. I also see many corporations wanting to put forth a "green" image (the kind of companies I avoid on principle) getting this and forcing their employees to go through it.
     
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