What is Honda Earth Dreams technology?
Earth Dreams Technology is Honda's umbrella branding for a family of propulsion innovations aimed at higher efficiency and better performance across engines, transmissions, and electrified powertrains.
It combines redesigned gasoline engines with direct injection and variable valve timing, smarter transmissions, and hybrid systems to deliver improved real-world fuel economy and lower emissions without compromising driving dynamics. Since its introduction in the early 2010s, Earth Dreams has influenced many Honda powertrains and continues to evolve across markets.
Origins and concept
Honda unveiled Earth Dreams Technology as a coordinated strategy to modernize its entire lineup with more efficient powertrains. The aim is to boost thermal efficiency, reduce friction, and optimize engine control so that smaller or cleaner engines can deliver stronger performance in everyday driving while meeting tightening emissions standards.
Core components
The following items highlight the main elements of Honda's Earth Dreams effort across engines and transmissions.
Gasoline engine innovations
- Direct injection (DI) paired with variable valve timing (i-VTEC) to optimize combustion across engine speeds.
- Downsized, turbocharged engines that balance power with improved fuel economy.
- Friction reduction, advanced cooling and thermal management, and refined combustion strategies to raise overall thermal efficiency.
- Engine calibration and control software designed for efficient operation in real-world driving conditions.
These gasoline-engine upgrades are designed to provide more usable power per liter while trimming fuel consumption and emissions.
Transmissions and gearing
- Refined transmissions, including improved CVT designs and selective dual-clutch configurations, to reduce energy loss and improve drive feel.
- Close coordination between engine and transmission controls to optimize shifts and torque delivery for efficiency and smoothness.
Together, these transmissions help Honda deliver efficient performance across a wide range of driving scenarios while maintaining a satisfying driving experience.
Hybrids and electrified powertrains
The electrified side of Earth Dreams centers on hybrid architectures that blend gasoline and electric propulsion for efficiency and smooth operation.
The following highlights cover Honda's two-motor hybrid architecture and related control strategies.
- Sport Hybrid i-MMD uses two electric motors and a planetary gearset to optimize when the gasoline engine runs versus when electric drive is used.
- Engine decoupling at low speeds and regenerative braking to maximize energy recovery and efficiency.
- Intelligent energy management that prioritizes electric drive for city driving and efficient engine operation at higher speeds.
- Regenerative braking and battery management that support ongoing efficiency gains and smoother acceleration.
These systems are used in models such as the Insight, Accord Hybrid, CR-V Hybrid, and, in some markets, other Honda hybrids where available.
Applications across Honda lineups
Earth Dreams technology has been deployed across a wide range of Honda vehicles, including sedans, crossovers, and compact cars. Availability varies by market, but the approach underpins many of Honda’s current powertrains.
- Civic: gasoline engines with i-VTEC/DI and, in some markets, hybrid variants.
- Accord: efficient gasoline options and a hybrid variant using i-MMD.
- CR-V: multiple engines, including turbocharged gasoline and, in some regions, a hybrid option.
- Jazz/Fit and other small cars: efficient Earth Dreams engines with refined transmissions; hybrids offered where regional regulations and demand permit.
In markets with strict emissions standards, Earth Dreams serves as a core component of Honda’s strategy to balance performance, efficiency, and value for customers.
Environmental impact and performance
Honda emphasizes fuel economy and reduced emissions through Earth Dreams by improving thermal efficiency, reducing mechanical losses, and optimizing engine control. When combined with hybrid systems, these technologies contribute to lower tailpipe emissions in urban driving and smoother, more economical operation overall.
In practice, Earth Dreams aims to deliver more usable power per liter and better real-world mpg by integrating engine design, transmission behavior, and electrified propulsion into a cohesive powertrain strategy.
Summary
Honda Earth Dreams Technology represents a comprehensive, ongoing effort to modernize its powertrains—gasoline engines with advanced injection and valve control, efficient transmissions, and sophisticated hybrid architectures. The result is a family of powertrains that seek to improve real-world fuel economy and reduce emissions while preserving the performance and driving experience Honda drivers expect. The strategy continues to evolve with new models and market needs, reinforcing Honda’s commitment to cleaner, more efficient mobility.
What year did Honda start using Earth Dreams engine?
Honda's new CVT is part of the new suite of Earth Dreams Technology developments. Introduced in 2012 for mid-sized vehicles, it uses a metal belt and variable-width pulleys to provide seamless, stepless gear ratios for smooth acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.
Does Earth Dreams have VTEC?
Earth Dreams® Technology SOHC i-VTEC® V-6 with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) (Select models)
Is earth dreams direct injection?
【2.4L class engine】
・Based on the DOHC and VTEC technologies, it employs VTC and direct injection technology and implements extensive friction reduction measures. ・Standalone engine features 5%*3 improvements in fuel efficiency and output as well as a 10%*3 improvement in maximum torque compared to the previous engine.
What is the Honda Earth Dreams engine lawsuit?
The lawsuit alleges that Honda knew about the oil dilution problems in the affected Earth Dreams engines, citing customer service programs, warranty extensions, and past lawsuit settlements. However, these past arrangements have allegedly not fully satisfied the needs of affected drivers.
