| World's first production hydrogen fuel cell | Honda FCX Clarity |
Honda has claimed the title of the world's first car maker to make a production car with hydrogen fuel cell power. A limited run of 200 examples is rolling off the Japanese factory line right now and will be supplied to key customers in Japan and California, both locations where there are hydrogen gas filling stations to supply the cars with fuel.
The Honda FCX Clarity uses a hydrogen fuel cell to create electricity, which then powers a 134bhp electric motor. When the hydrogen is combined with oxygen the only by-product that is emitted is water vapour, which makes the FCX Clarity a zero-emissions vehicle.
With a range of 270 miles, the FCX Clarity will be trialled by 200 selected customers over a three-year period. During this time, these customers will pay a lease of around £300 per month to use the car.
Honda is studying the results of the 200 cars and will use the details to refine further hydrogen-powered cars.
Alisdair Suttie - 18 Jun 2008