Honda’s Clarity Fuel Cell has achieved a United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) driving range rating of 366miles (589km), and a gasoline-equivalent fuel economy rating of 68mpg (109km/l). Honda states that this gives the Clarity the highest range rating of any electric vehicle without an IC engine (including fuel cell and all-electric vehicles) in the United States.
The Clarity Fuel Cell is the first fuel cell car to house the entire drivetrain under the bonnet of the car. Honda has reduced the size of the fuel cell stack by 33% whilst increasing power density by 60%, compared to the Honda FCX Clarity. Thanks to the compact fuel cell stack and integrated powertrain, Honda states that in comparison to its rivals, the Clarity Fuel Cell is able to offer a more spacious cabin with seating for five people.
In Europe, Honda will be introducing the Clarity Fuel Cell to a limited number of European markets through the ‘HyFIVE’ program to promote the development, use and viability of a hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. Together with industry partners, Honda is looking to gather real world user experiences of fuel cell vehicles and the use of hydrogen refuelling stations.