NAUTICAL INFOScienceDaily (June 10, 2011) – Venice, the City of Dreams may have one less nightmare to deal with following a finding that the frequency of extreme storm surge events generated by Adriatic Sea tempests could fall by about 30 per cent by 2100.

Venice to Suffer Fewer Storm Surges

A team of international scientists led by CSIRO’s Dr Alberto Troccoli studied atmospheric circulation in the Mediterranean region to assess climate impacts through changes in storm surge frequency in Venice — a World Heritage-listed city built on 117 small islands and considered vulnerable to high sea levels (locally known as Acqua Alta).

Dr Troccoli said predictions of such extreme and small-scale events are exceedingly challenging, even for relatively short time horizons. “The survival of Venice and its lagoon is seriously questioned under the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), where global sea level rise scenarios and the results of this study, published in the journal Climatic Change, emphasize the need for location-by-location studies to determine coastal flooding impacts.

“While some assessment of the vulnerability of Venice to extreme high-water events has been carried out in the past, possible future changes in storm surge occurrences critical to flooding events remain largely unexplored. It is important to understand how these events will evolve since a moderate to strong storm surge event is required to cause serious flooding.

“We found that the frequency of extreme storm surge events affecting Venice is projected to decrease by about 30 per cent by the end of the 21st century which would leave the pattern of flooding largely unaltered under 21st Century climate simulations,” Dr Troccoli said. The research team — from CSIRO, the University of Padova and the University of Reading – used data from observations of storms, analysis of atmospheric and surface conditions, and climate scenario simulations. Storm surges in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea are driven by the passage of deep low-pressure systems, which cause sea level pressure gradients and strong Sirocco (South-Easterly) winds along the Adriatic Sea. These forces combine to push water into the northern end of the basin where Venice is located.

Dr Troccoli said an implication of the finding is that alterations in extreme tidal levels under climate change must be considered on a location-by-location basis in spite of the projected increase in global sea level. “Thus the projected change in the storm surge contribution, combined with the projected change of mean water levels in the Adriatic Sea indicates that tidal flooding events might not be exacerbated over the current century, with potential beneficial consequences for the conservation of the city. “Our paper presents an alternative analysis for storm surges and we believe our findings could have important implications on the way future storm surge and high tide events are interpreted,” he said.

PRODUCT NEWS

American Honda Announces More 2012 Models

American Honda Motor Company introduces another wave of machines for the 2012 model year, which include a wide assortment of dual-sport and off-road motorcycles, ATVs and the Big Red™ MUV. These 2012 models emphasize the far-ranging options that Honda brings to customers and this broad array of machines also underscores another exciting new season for Honda. This release of 2012 models includes: the CRF450R, CRF250R and CRF150R/RB motocross machines; the dual-sport XR650L; Honda’s popular selection of small-displacement recreational off-road bikes, the CRF100F, CRF80F, CRF70F and CRF50F; a host of ATVs including the FourTrax® Rancher® family, the FourTrax® Recon®, TRX400X and TRX90X; plus the versatile Big Red. In addition to these models, a host of new 2012 Honda Genuine Accessories are available that encompass the quality, performance and fit and finish you expect of all Honda products.

More detailed information and images of Honda’s model line can be found on www.powersports.honda.com

                                                                                                          Read more…..                                                                                                                                                               
CRF450R: Setting a New Standard
Since its introduction, the CRF450R has served as the standard by which all other bikes are judged in the big-bore class of motocross machines. In 2012, Honda raises the bar once again with a host of improvements that will help the CRF450R stay at the head of the pack. A new, stiffer fork outer tube among other refinements bring a more solid feel to the front end, and stiffer fork springs, revised suspension settings front and rear plus a new shock linkage yield improved tracking, more precise handling and added rider confidence over rough terrain. New, longer and wider footpegs offer more support with a larger platform and Dunlop’s premium MX51 tires add to an overall package that makes the CRF450R the bike of choice in the 450 class for 2012. Availability: July 2011.

CRF250R: A Winning Combination Grows Stronger
Superb handling and excellent power stand as the hallmarks of the CRF250R, and the revised 2012 model ups the ante in the 250 class. A new cylinder head and 46mm throttle body produce a broadened powerband featuring more low-end and midrange torque for an amazing, right-now hit of power. In addition, a new suspension linkage and updated suspension settings front and rear bestow improved tracking and more precise handling upon the CRF250R, enhancements that make a great-handling bike even better than before. In addition to those changes, longer and wider footpegs deliver more support and Dunlop’s premium MX51 tires cap off championship-caliber credentials that make the CRF250R the bike to beat in 2012. Availability: August 2011.

CRF150RB-Expert/CRF150R: Back and Better Than Ever
Back in the lineup as a 2012 model, the revolutionary CRF150RB-Expert/CRF150R steps up to an even higher level of performance. Thanks to several key engine updates, this 2012 model boasts improved power, torque and driveability throughout the powerband. Updated suspension settings front and rear produce improved action through even the toughest of track conditions. All of which reinforce the CRF150R’s premier position in racing circles. Availability: August 2011.

XR650L: The Legend Continues
In truth, the XR650L has grown to become a legend in its own time—and for good reason. Whether the road ahead holds dirt roads, single-track trails, highways or byways, the XR650L serves as the key that opens the door to riding adventures and good times. For years, devotees of the XR650L have trusted this do-it-all mount to transport them to all kinds of far-flung destinations and back again. And for 2012, the much-beloved XR650L returns to accomplish all kinds of two-wheeled missions once more. Availability: July 2011.

A Family Gathering: CRF50F, CRF70F, CRF80F and CRF100F
For years, Honda has offered a full line of off-road bikes stair-cased in size and displacement to meet the specific needs of riders just entering the sport. That tradition continues in 2012 with the CRF® line of family bikes beginning with the automatic-clutch-equipped CRF50F and CRF70F that both feature low seat heights and light weights that work to the advantage of those new to riding. The next rung up features the CRF80F and CRF100F, two bikes that offer manual clutches with smooth, progressive action—just right for mastering the knack of clutch starts and manual shifting. No matter which of these four you may select for the job at hand, each and every one offers the famous quality and reliability that keeps Honda at the top of the list for families that ride. Availability: August 2011.

FourTrax Rancher Family: Built to Work—and Play
Over the years, the hard-working FourTrax Rancher series of Honda ATVs have proven to be exceptionally dependable riding partners whether the day calls for hard work or loads of fun. From sunup to sundown, these hard-working machines simply get the job done thanks to a torque-laden liquid-cooled fuel-injected 420cc engine. From that well-proven starting point, the list of configurations truly abounds: 2WD or 4WD, manual transmission, Honda’s Electric Shift Program that makes gear shifts as easy as punching a button, or a fully automatic transmission. There’s also a choice of Electric Power Steering plus much, much more. With so much to choose from, it’s easy to see why the FourTrax Rancher family continues to stand out as one of the best picks in the world of ATVs. Availability: Summer 2011.

Class Act: FourTrax Recon/ FourTrax Recon ES
Since the inception of this classy ATV, thousands of riders have made the Honda FourTrax Recon a best seller, and that’s just the way it should be. A remarkably torquey 229cc OHV engine pumps out delightful levels of performance, while its size enhances its agile handling traits. With the option of a manual gearbox or Honda’s push-button Electric Shift Program (ESP®) the FourTrax Recon continues to deliver just-right performance that gets the job done seven days a week. Availability: July 2011.

Bring On the Performance and More: TRX400X
The TRX400X enjoys a well-deserved reputation for bringing aggressive styling and high performance to the ranks of sport ATVs. The bulletproof 397cc RFVC (Radial Four-Valve Combustion Chamber) engine has earned its place as one of the all-time great engines by offering both power and durability in spades. Yet thoughtful amenities such as a five-speed transmission plus Reverse gear and electric starting bolster the fun part of the equation as well. All in all, the TRX400X delivers all the goods for those in search of a performance-packed ATV that also includes Honda’s legendary excellence of design. Availability: July 2011.

Best Foot Forward: TRX90X
When it’s time to introduce off-road riders to the world of ATVs, the TRX90X serves as the ideal starting point. While the TRX90X carries the same styling cues that place it right alongside its big brother sport ATVs, it also offers a smooth power delivery and Honda’s renowned reliability. Factor in the ease of electric starting, Honda’s durable automatic clutch and a refined suspension system, and you have the perfect combination for launching a new beginner off to a great start on a lifelong riding career. Availability: August 2011.

Big Red: The World’s Hardest Working MUV
In 2011 Honda brought a load of upgrades to the Big Red Multipurpose Utility Vehicle (MUV), and these changes continue to elevate this hard-working machine way ahead of all other options. Credit its multiple patents and numerous automotive-based technology features for the praise Big Red has garnered for its superior handling, secure feel and comfortable ride. Yet it works harder than ever, thanks to its 675cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine, recently upgraded load carrying and towing capacities, revised suspension, contoured bench seat for easier entry/exit and a Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) that meets OSHA requirements. Availability: August 2011.

Honda’s Blue Skies for Our Children: Rallying Cry Still Rings True

Published on June 20, 2011 by Ben Knight

Honda has adopted a global environmental slogan — Blue Skies for Our Children — to inspire our company to achieve new targets we have established to reduce CO2 emissions from our products and the operations that produce them. These words arouse strong emotions in Honda engineers, and take me back to a time four decades ago when the same phrase served as the rallying cry for Honda’s first effort to tackle a challenging environmental issue.

I joined Honda as a young engineer in 1976. What attracted me, as with so many Honda customers and fans, was a brand that showed a can-do spirit in creating something the rest of the auto industry argued couldn’t be done – a vehicle with cleaner emissions and high fuel economy that was also fun to drive.

This vehicle was the Honda Civic – and it had something else that was truly revolutionary — CVCC engine technology, for Compound Vortex Combustion Controlled. That’s a mouthful of complex engineering, but what CVCC helped create is simpler — a lean burn engine that made Civic the first car to meet the stringent tailpipe emissions standards of the U.S. Clean Air Act without the need for after treatment of the exhaust. The Civic CVCC was also #1 on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) very first list of the most fuel efficient vehicles in America.

Based on his own belief in the importance of advancing mobility to address the issue of environmental sustainability, Honda founder Soichiro Honda pulled our company out of Formula One racing in 1969 in order to devote Honda’s full engineering resources to developing advanced environmental technologies. He then challenged Honda engineers to create a cleaner-burning engine to address air pollution – which was then the most serious environmental sustainability issue facing the automobile industry.

Honda engineers were reading reports about the serious impact pollution would have on the health of children. A group of doctors in Japan published a report about high levels of lead in the blood streams of children. The Club of Rome, founded in Italy in April 1968 by a small international group of academics, scientists, government and industry leaders, focused global attention on negative environmental consequences, forecasting limits to human expansion within less than 100 years if no major change in society occurred. In 1970, Congress passed the 1970 Clean Air Act, creating stringent new emissions standards and the U.S. government created the EPA.

Mr. Honda saw this as a great way to compete against more established companies. But Honda engineers suggested that their real motivation and goal was to ensure “Blue Skies for Our Children,” in other words, to ensure the future of mobility and the health of the planet for future generations. This phrase became the team’s rallying cry in the effort to find and develop technology that could improve air quality.

Mr. Honda was proud that his engineers had looked at this challenge as more than a competitive challenge. With a great deal of passion and energy, the team of Honda engineers addressed the challenge of sustainable mobility. And this led to the breakthrough with the CVCC engine that powered the Honda Civic. When I learned of these events, it helped deepen my appreciation that the purpose of our technology was to help people and society. That certainly made Honda a company I wanted to contribute my best efforts to.

In the ensuing years, Honda continued to advance its engine technologies. Over the past four decades, we led the global auto industry in meeting a series of increasingly stringent tailpipe emissions requirements, starting with the first gasoline-powered Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) in the hands of consumers, sparking an era of fundamental improvements to air quality. Of course, we were proud to be first, but Honda’s strategy for reducing emissions was something of our gift to the world. We provided the auto industry with a practical and economical pathway to reducing exhaust emissions on a broad scale that no one thought possible. At the same time, we have been a consistent leader in fuel-efficiency, topping fuel-economy rankings for 22 of the past 36 years

Today, the challenge of environmental sustainability is much broader than air pollution – encompassing numerous energy and environmental issues, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (primarily CO2) that contribute to global climate change and the transition from fossil fuels to renewable forms of energy, among other issues.

But I am excited that Honda’s environmental vision to pursue the joy of mobility and a sustainable society where people can enjoy life continues to be inspired by the original rallying cry of Honda engineers – something that Honda associates throughout our company embrace on a daily basis. Once again, our effort to achieve a challenging target to reduce CO2 emissions is guided by our mission to leave “Blue Skies for Our Children.”

Ben Knight
Vice President
Honda R&D Americas, Inc.