We recently joined Honda at the New York International Auto Show for the unveiling of a new Honda Element concept car. Honda, in response to a growing demand for pet-friendly vehicles, has risen to the occasion and created a concept car specifically meant to address the needs of people who frequently travel with their pets:
Developed specifically for the Element, the Dog Friendly™ components demonstrate the potential for a dedicated pet restraint system designed to meet the needs of dog owners. A finalized version of the Dog Friendly Element is scheduled to debut this fall. Major components will likely include:
- a cushioned pet bed in the cargo area with an elevated platform;
- second row and cargo area pet restraint systems;
- an extendable cargo area load-in ramp;
- a 12V DC rear ventilation fan;
- second-row seat covers with a dog pattern design (matches the bed fabric);
- all-season rubber floor mats with a toy bone pattern;
- a spill-resistant water bowl; and
- dog-friendly exterior emblems.
“In an interesting turn of events, cars are now chasing dogs,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. “Factory integration of a cushioned pet bed, restraint systems and other components is intended to transform the Element into the ultimate dog car.”
While “customization” is a word thrown around in many industries, rarely do we see a meaningful execution. The ability of companies to both identify and meet the needs of various subcultures in their customer base is indicative of their commitment to customer service and innovation. Well done, Honda.
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I’ve never been a fan of Honda but their Dog-Friendly concept is really interesting for me. I’m excited about the 12V DC rear ventilation fan and a spill-resistant water bowl! I wish I’d be able to get this ride whenever I take my furry friends on dog shows.
April 11th, 2009 at 7:00 pm
My GF walks dogs – takes six at a time up into the forest above Vancouver. We looked at the Element last year, but wound up with a Ford Ranger pickup with canopy. Add rubber mats to the bed and it’s PERFECT for dogs. The Element just seemed too small, and had too many non-dog friendly features. Plus with a pickup you can hose out the “passenger” compartment.
April 12th, 2009 at 1:29 am
We have Great Danes, and considered the Element, but it’s not an easy vehicle for larger dogs to get into.
The “dog-friendly” features are likely to be even more of a detriment to large and giant breeds. A raised platform? No thanks.
Also, our dogs, like most dogs, love to hang their heads out of the window when cruising around town. The Element’s lack of fully opening rear windows makes this a horrible choice for most dog owners.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:47 am
I drive an Element and love everything about it except the back windows. When I heard about this on the radio, I thought, “Yes! They’ve finally engineered the back windows to roll down in the Element!”
My Yellow Lab and I are disappointed to learn otherwise, and instead, Honda is exploiting the dog community to market useless gimmicks.
April 14th, 2009 at 11:44 pm
Dogs should never ever be allowed to hang out a window while the car is moving. The fact that the Honda’s rear windows only open to a certain degree is perfect for preventing a dog from leaving a moving vehicle. We watched a dog who was hanging out the window, leave via the window as the car was going through a very busy intersection. Needless to say, it was a horrible scene for all who watched and the dog did not survive.
April 18th, 2009 at 11:05 am
How the car,,,
April 19th, 2009 at 10:40 pm