HONDA UNVEILS CLARITY FUEL CELL
Honda, the pioneer of hydrogen fuel cell technology has unveiled its next generation Clarity Fuel Cell today at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show.
- Next generation Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle unveiled at 2015 Tokyo Motor Show
- Best-in-class range comparable to fossil fuel-powered vehicles
- Clarity Fuel Cell set for 2016 introduction in selected European markets
Honda, the pioneer of hydrogen fuel cell technology has unveiled its next generation Clarity Fuel Cell today at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show.
Incorporating Honda’s most advanced technologies, the Clarity Fuel Cell is the world’s first production model of a fuel cell powered sedan to house the entire fuelcell stack and drivetrain system in the space normally occupied by the engine and transmission. The Clarity Fuel Cell will be commercially available in Japan from early 2016. Further information on the European launch of the vehicle will follow in 2016.
World-first packaging solution
The packaging of the Clarity Fuel Cell has been inspired by Honda’s principle of man maximum, machine minimum. Through minimising the space utilised by the powertrain, Honda has been able to achieve a level of interior space that allows five adults to be comfortably accommodated as would be expected in a conventionally powered sedan. The size of the fuel cell stack and the power generation unit have been reduced through Honda’s advanced technologies to a size comparable to a V6 engine.
Despite the compact nature of the fuel cell powertrain, Honda’s advanced technologies have ensured world-leading fuel cell stack performance. Honda’s original wave flow channel separators are more advanced than ever, while the cells now feature a higher output and a more slender shape thanks to a 1 mm (20%) reduction in the thickness of each cell. These advances combine to make the fuel cell stack 33% more compact than the stack used in the original FCX Clarity. This improvement is highly impressive as it has been achieved in parallel with an increase in maximum motor output to 130 kW (177ps) and a power density increased by 60% to 3.1 kW/L.
Class-leading convenience
The Clarity Fuel Cell is equipped with a high-pressure tank capable of storing hydrogen gas at 70 MPa, increasing the mass of hydrogen that can be stored and extending the range of the vehicle. Coupled with the efficient powertrain and reduced vehicle energy consumption, the Clarity Fuel Cell achieves a best-in-class fuel cell vehicle range per full tank of over 700 km1 (435miles).
In addition, the high-pressure tank can be quickly refilled, the process taking approximately three minutes at 70 MPa and 20oC. These and other benefits give the Clarity Fuel Cell a day-to-day convenience customers are used to with their traditional petrol or diesel powered vehicles.
An exhilarating driving experience
Engineered to use the high output of Honda’s fuel cell stack and the power assist of the lithium-ion battery pack, a high-output motor provides power to the driven wheels together with instant and powerful acceleration. Due to the continuously increasing torque provided by the high-output 130 kW (177 PS) motor with no need for gears, the Clarity Fuel Cell achieves perfectly smooth acceleration anywhere from zero to maximum speed.
The direct response, exhilarating drive and quiet cabin together form an appealing combination. Clarity Fuel Cell offers the driver two driving modes: the ‘Normal’ mode provides a balance between fuel economy and driving performance, while ‘Sport’ prioritises a more responsive acceleration feeling.
Outstanding design
The exterior of Clarity Fuel Cell has been designed to give an imposing presence on the road while maintaining a strong aerodynamic profile. Full-LED headlights with a sharp, slender profile and 18-inch aluminium wheels with an aerodynamic and stylish design complete the look.
The interior of Clarity Fuel Cell combines an advanced yet refined atmosphere designed to provide the driver with a relaxing and comfortable driving environment. The advanced driver interface uses Honda’s design principles of instant recognition and intuitive control.Simple and outstandingly spacious, the interior features premium, comforting materials that make driving an experience to anticipate and enjoy.
Honda Clarity in Europe and participation in HyFIVE project
Honda is scheduled to launch the Clarity Fuel Cell in a limited number of European markets in 2016. Honda is one of five automotive companies that make up the HyFIVE consortium, and will supply vehicles that will be part of a 110 strong European fleet to highlight and promote the development, use and viability of this new technology.
In UK, Honda has worked with suppliers to encourage the local production and consumption of energy by establishing a solar-powered hydrogen refuelling station in the grounds of Honda of the UK Manufacturing in Swindon. This station is open to the public (subject to registration) and able to refuel any fuel cell vehicle.
Fuel cell technical specifications
| Length (mm) | 4,895 |
| Width (mm) | 1,875 |
| Height (mm) | 1,475 |
| Occupants | 5 |
| Range per full tank (km) | Over 7001 |
| Refuelling time | Approx. 3 minutes |
| Maximum fuel cell output (kW) | Over 100 |
| Fuel stack output density (kW/L) | 3.1 |
| Maximum motor output (kW) | 130 |
| Maximum hydrogen tank pressure (MPa) | 70 |
| Energy storage method | Lithium-ion battery |
1 Reference value as measured by Honda according to the JC08 method. The vehicle was refuelled according to the SAE standard J2601 at a 70 MPa filling station
HONDA AT THE 2015 TOKYO MOTOR SHOW
- Global debut of Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle
- New models for Japanese market, including European-built Civic Type R
- New concepts showcase innovative mobility solutions
TOKYO, Japan, October 28th, 2015- The Clarity Fuel Cell, Honda’s new hydrogen fuel cell vehicle was joined by production models making their Japanese debut including the European-built Civic Type R , Honda NSX, and Odyssey Hybrid.
Following its world debut at 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Honda Project 2&4 powered by RC213V will be shown as well as innovative mobility solutions, The WANDER WALKER and WANDER STAND. This broad portfolio of models is united by Honda’s global brand slogan – The Power of Dreams.
Clarity Fuel Cell
The Clarity Fuel Cell is the world’s first production hydrogen fuel cell vehicle sedan to house the fuel cell stack and drivetrain system under the bonnet. Incorporating Honda’s design principle of man maximum, machine minimum, this unique configuration provides outstanding roominess with seating for five. The size of the fuel cell stack and power generation system is reduced by 33 per cent compared to Honda’s previous hydrogen FCV, the FCX Clarity.
The fuel cell stack is not only more compact, it also produces a higher output with a maximum fuel cell output of over 100 kW and a fuel cell stack power density of 3.1 kW/L.
Leveraging the high output of the fuel cell stack and the power assist of the lithium-ion battery, the electric motor provides 130kW (177 PS) of output, enabling powerful acceleration and a feeling of smooth acceleration from standstill to maximum speed.
Honda has achieved a best in class fuel cell vehicle range per full tank of over 700 km (435 miles) all with a short refuelling time of around 3 minutes, providing similar day-to-day convenience to that of a traditional petrol or diesel powered vehicle.
The Clarity Fuel Cell will be commercially available in Japan from early 2016. Further information on the launch of Clarity in Europe will follow in 2016.
Civic Type R
Billed as a ‘race car for the road’, the all-new Civic Type R is powered by the most extreme and high-performing Type R engine ever built, and will set new standards in the high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment. Produced at Honda of the (UK) Manufacturing, the car will be exported back to the company’s home market. Sales in Japan of the all-new Type R will commence towards the end of 2015.
Honda NSX
The NSX is a super sports car for a new era. The new model features lightweight body construction and a new inline 3.5-litre V6 twin turbo engine as part of the three-motor SPORT HYBRID SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system. The engine is combined with three electric motors (two of which are housed in the front wheels) via a 9-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. The all-new NSX will be launched in Europe during 2016.
Japanese market models
Other new models for the Japanese market include the Odyssey hybrid, a premium minivan which brings together a generously roomy cabin, distinctive styling and an exhilarating drive.
Honda will also be displaying the all-new S660 open-top sports mini-vehicle. The S660, has been designed to deliver the same excitement as a fully-fledged sports car in a compact and efficient package.
The N-Box, Japans best-selling minicar, will also be on the stand with a new package designed to minimise the chances of occupants getting sunburnt. The special package blocks 99% of UV rays as well as IR (heat) rays and is the first application of this technology in the world.
Honda Project 2&4 powered by RC213V
Following its global debut at Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the Honda Project 2&4 powered by RC213V will be on display at Tokyo Motor Show. Designed to deliver an immersive driving experience, Honda Project 2&4 utilises Honda’s expertise on two and four wheels to provide the freedom of a motorcycle and the manoeuvrability of a car.
The Honda Project 2&4 powered by RC213V is the winning entry from Honda’s ‘Global Design Project’, a competition amongst Honda’s global design team. . With a 14,000 rpm red line, the 1,000 cc engine is mated to a six-speed DCT gearbox and delivers peak power of 215 PS at 13,000 rpm, and peak torque of 118 Nm at 10,500 rpm.
WANDER STAND and WANDER WALKER concepts
The WANDER STAND allows two adults to ride side by side to experience a new way to drive. Honda’s Omni Traction Drive System allows complete freedom of movement forwards, backwards, laterally and diagonally. The width of the concept allows it to access the most narrow of streets, while an automatic drive mode allows occupants to relax and explore new territory.
The WANDER WALKER is designed with the city of the near future in mind, where personal mobility solutions will give riders free access to all parts of their environment. The highly compact design is 540mm wide and can easily fit down narrow streets thanks to its innovative steering system. The concept also features a display tablet, which doubles as the key for the vehicle.
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