2010 Honda Element goes to the dogs -- in a good way
Forget about making cars just to make drivers happy -- American Honda is rolling out the red carpet for their dogs too.
The 2010 Honda Element includes a luxurious Dog Friendly™ pet accommodation package with equipment like an extendable ramp for Rover to enter and exit the vehicle, a dedicated fan (because dogs get hot too), and a spill-resistant water bowl.
"The Honda Element has long been recognized as an accommodating vehicle for people with active lifestyles involving sports and hobbies," said Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president of Product Planning for American Honda.
"The new Dog Friendly Element takes that concept to a whole new level with specially designed features for dogs and their owners."
These features are more advanced than just four-legged frivolities -- they also improve the safety of transporting dogs in the car. The Dog Friendly equipment secures the dog in the Element’s cargo area with soft, seat-belt-grade nylon webbing, which keeps the dog from interfering with the driver and prevents pet and people injuries in the event of a frontal collision.
But the spoiled pooch can be proud of this ride: The Dog Friendly version (with an option price of $995) also includes a cushioned pet bed for afternoon naps and all-weather rubber floor mats decorated with an attractive toy bone pattern. Owners can brag about their Dog Friendliness with included emblems that stick onto the outside of the car.
You can even decorate the second row of seats with a dog-patterned cover that matches the dog’s bed fabric. Aww.
The 2010 Honda Element will be at dealerships nationwide by mid-October. Dog owners can purchase the Dog Friendly Element on Nov. 16.
-- Kelsey Ramos
Photo credit: American Honda
Too bad none of the rear windows really open. Back passengers only vent a crack. No fun for Fido.
Posted by: Jack Henry | October 13, 2009 at 09:11 PM
This is very very cool. I own two big dogs and my ex had a dog. We were always looking for ways to keep the dogs comfy for long drives in Califorina. This is a wonderful, clever idea. thank you Honda for going to the dogs.. Brad
Posted by: Brad Edwards | October 13, 2009 at 09:28 PM
What a great idea!
Posted by: Wynn | October 14, 2009 at 04:16 AM
This is fantastic! Finally someone in the auto industry is looking at the demographics and fulfilling the need to keep dogs safe while riding in their owners vehicle.
Not only are they are they supplying a great safety package for dogs, they are doing it with style and comfort.
Kudos Honda!
Posted by: Scruffy | October 14, 2009 at 11:05 AM
Old news; this was introduced in Japan years ago.
Posted by: Katie | October 16, 2009 at 09:39 AM
Honda rules!
Posted by: kem | October 16, 2009 at 12:46 PM
I'm so excited about this Honda. I've owned Hondas since 1987.
I have 2 large American Bulldogs with another on the way and 2 mixed breeds. I can sure use this truck.
I've been following the write ups for a long time now. What I'm confused about is that package which will cost about 900 was to be standard features for this truck?
Posted by: Meredith Marks | October 20, 2009 at 04:34 PM
Unfortunately you'd have to drive an Element to take advantage of this.
Posted by: Me | October 22, 2009 at 05:42 PM