NY Show: Honda Element with Dog-Friendly Accessories

At this year's New York Show Honda is previewing a new range of dog-friendly car accessories for the Element that will be available for order this fall. The canine-aftermarket lineup includes numerous components such as a cushioned pet bed in the cargo area with an elevated platform, second row and cargo area pet restraint systems, a spill-resistant water bowl even seat covers with a dog pattern design and "Dog Friendly" exterior emblems.

For those wondering 'why', allow us to inform you - if you don't already know- that according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, Inc., a staggering 39 percent of all U.S. households own at least one dog with the country's dog population estimated at a whopping 74.8 million. The estimated total market value of all pet purchases, related products and services in the U.S. was more than $43 billion in 2008.

NY Show Preview: Honda's Dog-Friendly Element Concept Study

We knew that Honda was going to unveil some sort of concept study other than the Acura ZDX at this week's New York International Auto Show, but up until now, we didn't know what that car was. Well, thanks to the folks over at USA Today, we just learnt that Honda's "surprise" is a concept study for a dog-friendly version of the Element.

The new variant which might find its way into production later on this year has been equipped with numerous canine-friendly features like a built-in bed in the cargo area, a private electric cooling fan, a spill-proof water bowl and a mesh net that keeps the animal(s) separated from the human passengers (or is it the other way around...). Guess Honda gives a new meaning to the term "it's a dog's life".

Via: USA Today

2009 Honda Element Facelift: Official Photos

The very first official photos of the revised 2009 Honda Element unceremoniously hit the web today. Expected to hit U.S. dealerships this fall, the 2009 Element obtains Honda’s new corporate grille which was first seen in the redesigned Pilot crossover along with larger, wraparound headlamps and a newly styled front bumper. At the rear-end, the facelifted Element features a new set of tail lamps, a redesigned fifth door with more angular crests and a slightly revised bumper. -Continued

The same styling tweaks have also been applied to the sportier 2009 Element SC that stands out thanks to the mild aero-kit and the body-colored moldings. We're not aware of any other changes, so until Honda releases official details on the redesigned Element, enjoy the photo gallery below.

Via: Elementownersclub