Heading: The Creation of Honda’s “The Beast” CR-V: A Unique Engineering Challenge

Honda’s decision to put an 800 hp IndyCar engine into a CR-V and call it “The Beast” is undeniably cool. However, the use of real CR-V body panels posed significant challenges for the team responsible for its creation. In a new video detailing the process, Honda senior engineer Jordan Guitar explains that aligning the body panels correctly led to various issues and forced them to reconsider their design.

Heading: Overcoming Design Challenges

One of the major issues faced by the team was the rear pivoting portion of the body, known as the clamshell, and how it was attached to the tube chassis. Since the bodywork used was real CR-V sheet metal and pillars, ensuring proper alignment proved to be a significant challenge. Initially, the design called for the large rear pivoting frame section to hinge at the front upper edge. However, the team ultimately came up with a reverse design that pivots from the lower rear section.

Heading: Integrating Different Suspension Systems

Aligning the body panels was not the only difficulty encountered during the creation of “The Beast.” The engine is attached to an IndyCar rear suspension, while the front suspension is sourced from an NSX GT3 racecar. Integrating these different suspension systems into a vehicle that was not meant to resemble either of them was no easy task. The team had to ensure that everything fit together seamlessly while maintaining the unique appearance of “The Beast.”

Heading: A Glimpse into the Future of IndyCar

In addition to its impressive powertrain, “The Beast” also features a hybrid power system that showcases Honda’s own power systems and offers fans a glimpse into the future of IndyCar. From the passenger’s seat, the experience is truly awe-inspiring. The vehicle launches silently in electric mode, creating a slight whining sound, before suddenly erupting with power. This combination of silence and raw power creates a unique and thrilling experience for passengers.

Heading: A Fun and Attention-Grabbing Marketing Exercise

While “The Beast” is undoubtedly a marketing exercise, Honda’s primary goal was to capture people’s attention and provide them with a fun experience. The vehicle’s design, inspired by Group B rallying, features a body kit that pays homage to Honda’s racing heritage. The wrap is filled with hidden Honda Easter eggs, adding an element of surprise for enthusiasts. The combination of the powerful engine and unique body design allows “The Beast” to provide exhilarating rides for its passengers.

Heading: Conclusion

Honda’s creation of “The Beast” CR-V showcases the brand’s engineering prowess and ability to push boundaries. Overcoming the challenges of aligning real CR-V body panels and integrating different suspension systems required innovative thinking and meticulous attention to detail. The result is a one-of-a-kind vehicle that not only captures attention but also offers a glimpse into the future of hybrid power systems in motorsports. With its fun and attention-grabbing design, “The Beast” is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.