NAME THAT SAFETY FEATURE; 2018 HONDA CLARITY | TALKING CARS WITH CONSUMER REPORTS #136

EV Channels Review

Consumer Reports' "Talking Cars" episode #136 delves into the confusing nomenclature of automotive safety features, advocating for standardized naming conventions. The discussion highlights how consumers are drawn to safety tech but often don't understand the specific features. The program also features an early look at the 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid. Reviewers find its electric-only range of around 47 miles and smooth, quiet takeoff appealing. However, they criticize its unusual styling, limited cargo space due to the battery, and the unintuitive touchscreen and push-button shifter. The episode also addresses viewer questions on defining reliability and the decline of column shifters, concluding that while manufacturers may resist common safety feature names, standardizing component names would benefit consumers.