Pre-Chat (12:30 PST/3:30 EST – 1:30 PST/4:30 EST

AHM_Moderator:
Hi everyone. Thanks for joining us. We're very excited to be chatting with Steve Ellis, Manager of Alternative Fuel Vehicles for American Honda Motor and Deborah Gangloff, Executive Director of American Forests. The chat will start at 1:30 p.m. PST (4:30 p.m. EST), so please keep sending your questions for Steve and Deborah now by typing them in the space below and clicking "Ask a question." And while you're waiting, make sure to check out Honda's environmental initiatives at www.honda.com

AHM_Moderator:
To ask Steve Ellis, Manager of Alternative Fuel Vehicles for American Honda Motor and Deborah Gangloff, Executive Director of American Forests a question, please type it in the space below and click "Ask."

AHM_Moderator:
A transcript of this chat will be available online at http://chat.honda.com a day or two after the event for those who wish to read it or share it with others.

AHM_Moderator:
Please send in questions for any of Honda's environmental vehicles or initiatives now by typing them below and clicking Ask.

AHM_Moderator:
We'll begin in 15 minutes. Please keep your questions coming!

AHM_Moderator:
Please send in questions for any of Honda's environmental vehicles or initiatives now by typing them below and clicking Ask.

Chat (1:30 PST/4:30 EST – 2:30 PST/5:30 EST

AHM_Moderator:
We have received a number of great questions, so let's get started! If you're just joining us, we're chatting live with Steve Ellis, Manager of Alternative Fuel Vehicles for American Honda Motor and Deborah Gangloff, Executive Director of American Forests. To ask Steve or Deborah a question, please type it in the space below and click "Ask a question." We'll get to as many of your questions as we can.

AHM_Moderator:
Here we go!

AHM_Moderator:
Good afternoon, Steve Ellis, Manager of Alternative Fuel Vehicles for American Honda Motor and Deborah Gangloff, Executive Director of American Forests! Welcome and thanks for being here to chat with us today.

AF_Deborah_Gangloff:
Thank you very much for having me participate today. American Forrest is thrilled to working with Honda to help meet our goal of planting one million trees in the wake of the devastating wildfires last year.

AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Thank you for putting us in touch with our customers and promoting attention to our important environmental initiatives.

AHM_Moderator:
OK here comes our first question...

Fred: Q:
Steve, Proud owner of a -03 Honda Civic Hybrid here. What are Honda`s plans to increase their fleet of hybrid vehicles?

Fred: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Thank you. The next hybrid will be the hybrid Accord, V6 as announced in Detroit on January 5th, see hondanews.com, search on "hybrid." One of the advantages of Honda's IMA hybrid technology is its flexibility, as evidenced by this Accord.

JLewinski: Q:
I just heard about the cylinder-limiting technology. which vehicles are you planning to release it on?

JLewinski: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Will be introduced on V6 Accord Hybrid and a second model to be introduced this fall.

antlion: Q:
I`ve heard that we might have overestimated the ability of fuel cell technology to relieve our dependence on fossil fuels. What is the latest research on fuel cells?

antlion: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
The goal of reducing or eliminating dependence on oil is noble, therefore we should go "all out" toward achieving it. However, it is too early to say it is overestimated. Look at Honda's just-announced progress on improving cold-start and power output with our new Honda developed fuel cell stack as an example.

AHM_Moderator:
Deborah, where will the trees be planted?

AF_Deborah_Gangloff:
We're going top plant the trees in areas devastated by these devastating wildfires in areas such as the Bitteroot National Forest in Montana, areas in California like the San Bernardino and Angeles National Forests, Indian reservations in the Southwest and other public lands devastated by wildfires in recent years.

dui: Q:
When will you see a high performance hybrid or even fuel cell car be available for sale in US ?

dui: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
We have already showed several concept cars using hybrid technology for performance. The Accord V6 hybrid, for instance, will offer higher performance than the current Accord V6 with the fuel economy of a four-cylinder Accord. At Honda, we are always thinking of ways to make sporty, fun-to-drive cars, and that definitely includes our hybrids.

CivicMinded: Q:
Is Honda planning a hydrogen fuel cell car?

CivicMinded: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Honda already has five FCX fuel cell cars on the road today leased to the city of Los Angeles and two leased to the city of San Francisco. The first was delivered on December 2, 2002 and has already provided significant "real world" user feedback.

jack: Q:
Does honda produce vehicles that run on natural gas?

jack: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Honda has offered the Civic GX natural gas vehicle since 1998 model year. Sold primarily to fleets, we are now preparing to take "retail" with home refueling. See civicgx.com for more details.

dancing_queen: Q:
Is it true that a well-maintained vehicle is a cleaner vehicle (emissions-wise)?

dancing_queen: Answer: af_Deborah_Gangloff:
Yes. A well-maintained vehicle will have less impact on the environment, will emit less into the atmosphere, and together with tree planting can have a significant impact on the quality of our air. To help Honda owners keep their vehicles well maintained, participating dealers are offering free 40-point inspections of their vehicles. For every 40-point inspection completed during the month of April Honda will have a tree planted through American Forests in a wildfire-devastated area.

PlantATree4Me: Q:
Like can we recycle trash to make gas?

PlantATree4Me: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
It is possible to make "biogas" from trash to power natural gas vehicles, but still faces cost and other hurdles. This is being done today in Europe.

BR: Q:
What alt. fuel technologies are currently most promising from a mass market perspective?

BR: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Natural gas has been proven the cleanest "available" alternative fuel and CAN BE a sustainable fuel ... And enjoys a vast distribution network. It is also strongly viewed as the pathway and "feedstock" for hydrogen and fuel cell vehicles.

MarkSEO: Q:
Is there any existing infrastructure for re-fueling hydrogen fuel cells? I heard that some apartment complexes use (or plan to use) hydrogen as back up for emergency generation of electricity... would this be a possible place to start infrastructure?

MarkSEO: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Hydrogen fuel stations are just now beginning to be built, mostly in California. Hydrogen can be reformed "at home" for refueling at your apartment complex or residence sometime in the future, but we still have many obstacles to cross before broad and numerous stations will be built ... California's governor has discussed a "hydrogen highway" initiative which can go a long way toward meeting this goal.

AHM_Moderator:
To find out more about the Global Releaf program sponsored by American Forests, make sure to explore the American Forests web site at www.americanforests.org

inquiring_mind: Q:
Are car and oil companies in cahoots to keep the fossil fuel burning engines going?

AHM_Moderator:
Absolutely not; most oil and car companies see a future in the use of hydrogen as a widely used fuel. They are investing large resources into the development of alternative fuel infrastructure and drive trains that will guide our future.

will: Q:
Why has it taken over 100 years to find alternatives to the combustion engine?

will: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Alternatives have existed for over 50 years, but faced the acceptance and implementation challenges like they do today. However, our need to "shift" to alternatives is more understood today.

b0b: Q:
how much does it appear fuel cells will cost the consumer? and how much to recharge the cells

b0b: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
It's too early to tell. However, fuel cell vehicles will have to compete with existing technologies for price, performance and possibly even offer "new values" to the public. As hydrogen powered vehicle, you simply refuel with hydrogen in about "five minutes," just like your gasoline car. No "charging" is necessary.

claudita: Q:
What have been some of the obstacles in preventing Electric vehicles from selling in high numbers?

claudita: Answer: AHM_Moderator:
Some of the challenges that prevented electric vehicles from entering mainstream sales are the same ones challenging fuel cell vehicles now. These challenges are cost, infrastructure, technology development and range.

nana: Q:
Do you think you will be planting any trees in Arizona, where there were major wildfires last year?

nana: Answer: AF_Deborah_Gangloff:
Yes. We are currently seeking project proposals from states across the country. Those interested can go to americanforest.org. We have planted trees in Arizona in the past and welcome more opportunities to do so in the future.

AHM_Moderator:
To find out more about Earth Day, make sure to explore www.earthday.net

techman: Q:
What type of features are consumers seeking in a fuel-cell vehicle?

techman: Answer: AHM_Moderator:
Consumers are looking for a range comparable to conventional vehicles, home refueling capabilities, cost comparable to conventional vehicles, reliability and good refueling infrastructure.

soto2004: Q:
What is a 40-point inspection?

soto2004: Answer: AHM_Moderator:
The 40-point inspection is designed by Honda to check on the condition of a vehicle. This includes fluid levels, brake inspections, visibility (lights, wipers, etc.), tire pressure, and other attributes that can impact a vehicle`s performance. For more information regarding this month-long car care event, log onto www.hondacars.com and click "Newsroom".

hybrid: Q:
Other than hydrogen, are there other practical and polution free fuels for cars?

hybrid: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Today, a SULEV certified vehicle is "nearly zero emission." Hybrid is designed primarily for energy reduction since we have proven the ability to make non-hybrid SULEVs such as the SULEV Accord. The natural gas Civic GX is also "near zero emission." SULEV hybrids, Civic GX and SULEV Accords are all practical solutions without the cost and added complexity of pure "zero emission" vehicles.

marcus: Q:
Will the CR-V become "green"? Hybrid or otherwise?

marcus: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
We are committed to hybrid technology and specifically the Honda IMA approach. It is compact, efficient by design and can be applied to a wide variety of platforms. We are continually investigating other new applications for our technology.

sylvia: Q:
When do you think that fuel cell vehicles will be available to the general public?

sylvia: Answer: AHM_Moderator:
Our vehicle is already on the road as part of lease program to the cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco; however, we do not anticipate seeing any significant number of vehicles on the road for at least 15 more years.

Francis_75: Q:
What are Honda`s fuel efficiency goals for the next 10 years?

Francis_75: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Honda has a longstanding track record of introducing popular fuel efficient automobiles. Honda has the highest Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) of all major automakers. We will continue on this path using technologies like hybrid, variable cylinder management, VTEC, and continuing advances in internal combustion engine technology.

Brian: Q:
What is the update regarding the Los Angeles FCX test

Brian: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
All five vehicles in use by the city of Los Angeles are performing great and accumulating "real world" mileage on a daily basis. The city and its drivers are great partners in our quest to learn more about fuel cell vehicle acceptance. City of LA had really taken a leadership position in the adoption of this technology.

SuSN: Q:
It appears that Ford will be the first to market with a mass produced fuel cell powered vehicle called the P2000; when does Honda belive it will release its 1st fuel cell vehicle to market?

SuSN: Answer: AHM_Moderator:
Honda already has fuel cell vehicles on the market; so far 12 FCX`s are operating throughout the world with 7 of them in the United States with the possibility of expansion. Honda was the first, the only, manufacturer to fully certify a fuel cell vehicle for safety and emissions.

shorty: Q:
For fuel cell vehicles, where would the hydrogen be obtained?

shorty: Answer: AHM_Steve_Ellis:
Hydrogen can be sourced by reforming natural gas, or electrolysis of water. Honda is developing both solar powered electrolysis stations and a "reformer" type of co-generation unit. See honda.com and search on "hydrogen."

AHM_Moderator:
Unfortunately, we're all out of time with Steve Ellis, Manager of Alternative Fuel Vehicles for American Honda Motor and Deborah Gangloff, Executive Director of American Forests today. Steve and Deborah, thank you for taking the time to chat with us today. Any final comments from Steve or Deborah?

AF_Deborah_Gangloff:
I appreciated having the opportunity to chat with Honda owners. They should be proud to own an automobile made by a company that cares about the environment, and I hope they will maintain their cars to help protect the environment. American Forests will do what we can to plant more trees on behalf of Honda owners.

AHM_Steve_Ellis:
To all chatters, your questions were outstanding. Thank you for caring for the environment and joining us today to foster such a great initiative with American Forests.

AHM_Moderator:
Thank you for joining us today. Please make sure to visit the Honda web site frequently, as we'll be adding content regarding Honda's efforts related to Alternative fuel vehicles and overall environmental initiatives.

AHM_Moderator:
And don't forget to register for all Honda updates at: www.ahm-ownerlink.com

AHM_Moderator:
We apologize if we did not get to your question today, but please check http://chat.honda.com for the chat transcript. We will also try to answer some of the questions that we did not get to today.

AMH_Moderator:
Today's chat with Honda's environmental experts has ended.

AMH_Moderator:
Please visit http://chat.honda.com on Friday, April 16th to view a transcript of today's event.

AMH_Moderator:
Thank you for you interest!

Forestry Related Questions and Answers

Due to the volume of questions we were unable to answer all of the questions that we received. However, Deborah Gangloff, was kind enough to provide answers to those questions specific to American Forest. Below are those questions and answers:

Jessicafini: Q:
Who will be planning the trees? How can we get involved?

Jessicafini: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
We plant with local groups and government agencies to which we provide grants after reviewing and approving their project plans. See our web site www.americanforests.org, for details on our projects.

littlebri: Q:
What types of tress? All soft woods?

littlebri: Answer: Deborah Gangloff
We plant native trees. Species differ according the site.

Pearl: Q:
Are the trees conifers or deciduous or a mixture of both?

Pearl: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
We plant both conifer and hardwood.

Swhite: Q:
Who will be planting the trees, and are they accepting volunteers?

Swhite: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
Contact us through our web site for volunteer opportunities.

Judy: Q:
We could use some of these trees in the east since the air quality here is so bad. Could some trees be marked for the east coast?

Judy: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
Yes, we will plant in the East - in Florida and the Carolinas, for example.

Zip: Q:
How many trees do you expect to plant on behalf of this chat and your dealership events?

Zip: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
50,000

MPG: Q:
How many trees for the fires near Albuquerque- Bosque Del Apache – along the Rio Grande?

MPG: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
Yes, we have planted in New Mexico near Los Alamos, most recently.

Jackmpg: Q:
Will you also be thinning forests (i.e. removing dead trees) to reduce fires?

Jackmpg: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
No

GloriaIN: Q:
What can I do to help save or replant trees in my community?
How can I learn more about American Forest’s tree planting plan?

GloriaIN: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
See our web site www.americanforests.org

helloworld: Q:
What kind of trees are most in need of replanting?

helloworld: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
It's not so much the type of tree that's important, it's the reason to plant. After wildfires, for instance, trees are needed to prevent erosion by holding the soil on slopes, putting cover back on riparian areas (near water), and to ensure that native species (vs. invasive) return to the site. We also plant areas damaged by hurricanes or high winds, over-grazing, flooding, etc.

smartjess: Q:
Have any species of animals been threatened by the wildfires?

smartjess: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
Every species in the area was affected by the fires in southern CA, but none that we know of were threatened by extinction from the fires.

mikef: Q:
Can I contribute to a fund to help replant trees?

mikef: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
Visit our web site to "plant" on-line or call 800/873-5323

Pugi: Q:
Do you intersperse different tree species during reforestation? Why or why not?

Pugi: Answer: Deborah Gangloff:
Yes, we plant a variety of species on our sites for bio-diversity for wildlife and other ecological benefits and to reduce losses from species-specific insects or diseases.