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Honda will add a plug-in hybrid version of the Accord for the 2014 model year with launch in the first quarter of 2013.  As part of its Earth Dreams Technology initiative, the PHEV represents the toughest powertrain challenge for the Accord according to Plug-In Hybrid Large Project Leader Yasuyuki Sando.  Later, a pure two-motor hybrid version will be added.

Powertrain Gives 10-15 Miles Pure EV Range: The PHEV powertrain includes a 137-horsepower 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine mated to a two motor hybrid system.  The duo yields a total of 196-horsepower and 226 lb-ft of torque.  The PHEV uses an electric-coupled CVT.  When fully charged, the PHEV has a electric-only range of between 10 and 15 miles.  This compares to 11 miles for the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid, 35 miles for the Chevrolet Volt and 20 miles for the upcoming Ford C-Max Energi.

Honda chose a faster charge time rather than a larger battery for the PHEV.  This gives a one-hour recharge range of 8 miles compared to 4 miles for Prius and Volt.

Rated as an enhanced AT-PZEV, the Accord PHEV will qualify for the California white carpool lane sticker allowing a single person to drive the car in the carpool lane. 

PHEV Looks Different Too: While the big news is the powertrain, Honda has given the PHEV a unique front end appearance with a huge Honda logo badge, aggressive grille design and blue accents.  The PHEV wheels are unique to the model and certainly controversial in their design.  The design is reminiscent of a flat Cuisinart blade with sparkly black inserts.  This Accord PHEV may have the most from-the-factory bling of any Accord ever.