Honda has provided some additional details regarding its next-generation hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, which will be based on the CR-V. The as-yet-unnamed crossover will be part of the automaker’s effort to eliminate carbon emissions from its lineup.
In a meeting primarily focused on the automaker’s fuel cell business strategy for the future, Honda unveiled the packaging of the small crossover, with a fuel cell and electric drive motor taking place under the hood and on the front wheels, similar to the combustion CR-V interior. A hydrogen tank will appear under the rear seat, with another above and just forward of the rear axle – both good locations from a crash safety perspective. An “intelligent power unit” appears in place of the gasoline-powered CR-V’s driveshaft, combining a battery, electric inverter and powertrain controls into a single module.
Honda didn’t specify the size of the battery, but it will be enough to provide rechargeable electric capability, which the automaker confirmed a few months ago. Such a system will allow owners to recharge their SUVs overnight, allowing them to travel a certain distance before igniting the fuel cell and reducing their dependence on hydrogen refueling infrastructure, one of the main problems encountered. by owners of the Toyota Mirai and the old Honda Clarity. Fuel cell.
The fuel cell vehicle will be built at Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, most famous for being the site where the now-discontinued NSX was produced. Additionally, Honda will export Japanese market versions of the car from the Ohio plant. Sales in Japan and North America are expected to begin in 2024.
9 Pictures
Honda’s next-generation fuel cell, which will appear in the 2024 SUV, was developed in partnership with General Motors. The Japanese automaker says it will cost two-thirds less than the Clarity’s fuel cell, with double the durability thanks to more corrosion-resistant materials. The fuel cell also exhibits faster startup times in very cold temperatures – minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 30 degrees Celsius).
Company representatives also teased the fuel cell system that will follow by the end of the decade, offering half the cost and double the durability of next year’s unit. The automaker hopes this will help accelerate the adoption of hydrogen fuel cells in heavy trucking, construction, shipping and power generation.
