American Honda has released details of its 2005 Accord V6 Hybrid, a petrol-electric hybrid car scheduled to go on-sale at Honda’s US dealerships later this year.

Utilising a next-generation hybrid powertrain, the Accord V6 Hybrid will deliver power and performance above the current 240-horsepower (177kW) Accord V6 with the fuel economy of a compact-class, four-cylinder Civic sedan.

"Putting hybrid technology into our most popular model is a further indication of Honda's commitment to hybrid technology and our confidence that consumers are ready for more hybrid models," said Tom Elliott, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The Accord hybrid delivers both increased performance and higher fuel economy. It takes hybrid technology into all new territory."

With class-leading performance and fuel efficiency provided by a highly advanced and super-efficient hybrid V6 powertrain, the Accord Hybrid will produce in excess of 240 horsepower with near-peak torque available across the engine's full operating range for exhilarating performance with superb acceleration, passing power and cruising comfort.

Honda's innovative new Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology further enhances the efficiency of the Accord Hybrid by deactivating three of the engine's six cylinders during cruising and deceleration with no impact to vehicle performance or passenger comfort.

Honda's advanced and super-efficient Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system utilizes a high-output electric motor/generator to provide for more efficient engine operation by capturing electrical energy during braking or deceleration and using that energy to help power the vehicle. In addition, the system features the ability to shut off the engine during vehicle stops for further efficiency gains. The resulting savings in fuel consumption, along with VCM cylinder deactivation, provides for fuel economy comparable to a compact-class Civic sedan powered by a four-cylinder engine.

The Accord Hybrid's exterior has a number of exclusive features including a unique front grille design, new taillight appearance and special hybrid badging, along with a rear spoiler and exclusive alloy wheel design.

Honda introduced the Insight, Australia’s first commercially-available hybrid vehicle, in 2001. Honda then took hybrid technology into a mainstream model with the introduction of the Civic Hybrid in March this year.

Honda Australia has no plans, at this stage, to introduce the Accord Hybrid to Australia.