Bosch is supplying Electronic Stability Program (ESP) systems for up to 85 percent of the production. Within Honda this technology is known as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). The remaining production volume will be equipped with an Antilock Braking System (ABS) only, also supplied by Bosch. ESP is becoming increasingly popular with motorists and the most recent figures indicate that almost 30 percent of all new cars registered in the UK are now fitted with this important safety feature. The decision by Honda to feature ESP in such a high proportion of their new model will have a positive effect on this fitment rate level, and also demonstrates Honda's commitment to vehicle / road safety.

Honda's acclaimed 2.2 i-CDTi diesel engine, which is also being produced at the manufacturer's Swindon facility, features the Bosch common rail diesel system. This system has been developed specifically for the new vehicle by Bosch engineers in partnership with their Honda colleagues, and contributes to the class leading performance of the new Civic.

Note to Editors:

The Bosch Group is the world's largest provider of automotive technology to all leading vehicle and component manufacturers. 

In 2004, the company generated automotive sales of €25.3 billion and employs 149,200 people in this sector.  The key business areas include: fuel injection technology (diesel & petrol); systems for active and passive vehicle safety (brakes, ABS, traction control, ESP, control units for restraint systems); electrical motors, rotating electrics and products for car multimedia.

Bosch media enquiries:

Chris Wakley / David Eden
Automotive PR
Tel: 020 7494 8050
Email: cwakley@automotivepr.com / deden@automotivepr.com

Bosch OE enquiries:

Beverley Daniels
Corporate Affairs Manager
Robert Bosch Limited
Tel: 01895 878155
Email: beverley.daniels@uk.bosch.com