Honda: FCV Concept Debuts in Japan

The United States misses out on a lot of cars.  While cars within the U.S. borders tend to be more affordable, there are a lot of models we simply don’t get.  However, this is one concept car we will be able to see at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Next-Generation Honda Fuel-Cell Vehicle

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Honda’s next-generation fuel-cell vehicle launching in 2016 applies a fuel-cell powertrain that fits completely within the front engine compartment of the vehicle, allowing for efficiencies in cabin space as well as flexibility in the potential application of fuel-cell technology to multiple vehicle models in the future. Significant technological advancements to the fuel-cell stack have yielded more than 100kW of power output. The power density is now 3.1kW/L, an increase of 60 percent, with the stack size reduced 33-percent compared to the Honda FCX Clarity. The next-generation Honda FCV is targeted to deliver a driving range of more than 300 miles with a quick refueling time of about three to five minutes at a pressure of 70 MPa.

• Honda FCV Concept showcases the styling evolution of the next-generation zero emissions Honda fuel-cell vehicle
• Next-generation Honda FCV intends to provide significant gains in real-world performance, cost reduction, efficiency, packaging and appeal, including more than 300-mile driving range

Those familiar with the FCX Clarity and the first generation Honda Insight Hybrid can easily see the styling cues in the concept car.  While hybrid packaging, electric cars, diesels, and the internal combustion engine have all made significant advancements to meet C.A.F.E. standards, hydrogen power would be the most ideal solution.  Not only is the element abundant, the emission is essentially, water.

Finding a car that drives like a normal car and uses a different fueling requirement can make the transition easier.  The FCV Concept is a display of that technology being put into the real world.

Hopefully, consumers of the future will have a wide variety of choices, including hydrogen power.  The engines are labeled “Earth Dreams” for a reason.