The article begins with a nostalgic trip down memory lane, recalling the author’s enthusiasm for the Honda FCX Clarity, a hydrogen-powered family sedan, during his university days. While the FCX Clarity was a groundbreaking concept, its excitement was short-lived, and the technology has since struggled to gain traction. Despite lofty promises, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) have yet to take off, with consumers largely uninterested due to limited refueling infrastructure and high production costs.
However, Honda is making another attempt with the CR-V e:FCEV, a plug-in hydrogen electric vehicle that aims to revive interest in the technology. The CR-V e:FCEV is not an exciting car, but it’s a practical, comfortable, and reliable family SUV with a hydrogen powertrain. What sets it apart from other FCEVs is the incorporation of a 17.7-kilowatt-hour battery, which provides electric range in reserve and solves the issue of limited refueling infrastructure.
The article highlights the challenges facing FCEVs, including the need for widespread infrastructure, high production costs, and limited range. However, Honda is undeterred, investing in commercial vehicles, stationary power stations, and construction, with a goal of becoming net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company has also developed a fuel cell system for the International Space Station and is working on a production fuel cell for a hydrogen-powered production BMW.
The article concludes that while the CR-V e:FCEV may not be a game-changer, it’s an example of how hydrogen propulsion could operate in the real world. Honda’s focus on commercial and industrial applications, rather than strictly consumer demand, may be the key to success. While it’s unlikely to surpass the planned 300 FCEVs a year, the CR-V e:FCEV could still make a significant impact, much like the original FCX Clarity did 18 years ago. The article ends with a sense of optimism, suggesting that maybe, just maybe, the CR-V e:FCEV could reignite enthusiasm for FCEVs and the car of the future.
Key points:
* The Honda FCX Clarity was a pioneering hydrogen-powered family sedan that failed to gain traction
* Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) have struggled to take off due to limited refueling infrastructure and high production costs
* The Honda CR-V e:FCEV is a plug-in hydrogen electric vehicle with a 17.7-kilowatt-hour battery for reserve electric range
* Challenges facing FCEVs include limited infrastructure, high production costs, and limited range
* Honda is investing in commercial and industrial applications, aiming to become net-zero carbon emissions by 2050
* The CR-V e:FCEV is not a game-changer, but an example of how hydrogen propulsion could operate in the real world
* The article concludes with a sense of optimism, suggesting that the CR-V e:FCEV could reignite enthusiasm for FCEVs and the car of the future