Honda launches the world's first 5-seater FCV sedan | Honda

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

Honda Launches World's First 5-Seater FCV Sedan

Honda announced on March 10th that it has begun sales of its new fuel cell vehicle, the "Clarity Fuel Cell." Initially, it will be leased primarily to municipalities and corporations already utilizing FCVs, with sales to individuals planned for about a year and a half later.

Text by OHTO Yasuhiro

Mid-Size Sedan Class Output

Sales have begun for Honda's fuel cell vehicle, the "Clarity Fuel Cell," which made its world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show last autumn. The new model's key feature is the world's first sedan-type FCV capable of seating five people, achieved by miniaturizing the fuel cell powertrain to the size of a V6 engine and fitting it under the hood.

The drive motor delivers a maximum output of 130 kW and a maximum torque of 300 Nm, offering performance equivalent to mid-size sedans like the Accord in gasoline models.

In addition to the powertrain's miniaturization, the placement of the lithium-ion battery and hydrogen tanks has been cleverly designed to ensure a spacious cabin and a trunk capable of storing three 9.5-inch golf bags, providing ample practicality for a sedan.

The two hydrogen tanks, compatible with 70 MPa pressure and of varying sizes, can hold a total of 141 liters of compressed hydrogen. This allows for a cruising range of approximately 750 km (JC08 mode), among the top in its class for zero-emission vehicles. Furthermore, the refueling time for hydrogen is about three minutes, comparable to refueling a gasoline car.

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

Honda Launches World's First 5-Seater FCV Sedan (2)

External Power Supply for Approximately 7 Days of Household Electricity

The exterior design concept is "BOLD & AERO." It presents a dignified presence with a low and wide stance, while its aerodynamic, flowing style evokes a sense of advanced technology and sportiness. The body dimensions are 4,915 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,480 mm in height, making it slightly wider and just a bit smaller than Honda's flagship sedan, the "Legend."

The interior achieves a high level of quality comparable to premium sedans, utilizing a combination of genuine leather and Prime Smooth seats.

Advanced features include Honda's "Honda SENSING" driver-assist system as standard, along with 9-bulb full LED headlights and a navigation system with communication functions compatible with Apple CarPlay. The price is ¥7,660,000, but for the time being, sales will be limited to leases for corporations such as municipalities and companies. Furthermore, expansion into the European and North American markets is planned for within 2016.

The Clarity Fuel Cell is available with an optional portable external power supply unit, the "Power Exporter 9000," which can provide electricity to the outside when connected to the vehicle. The power supply is equivalent to approximately seven days' worth of electricity for an average household. While priced at ¥1.18 million, its ability to function as an emergency power source during disasters, in addition to its use for outdoor leisure, is a significant advantage.