Honda
FCX Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle
Available
for lease in the Summer of 2008
The FCX Clarity is
Honda's latest fuel cell vehicle based on Honda's new V
Flow fuel cell platform. Powered by Honda's V Flow fuel
cell stack, the FCX has made important major improvements in
driving range and power.
"The FCX Clarity is
a shining symbol of the progress we've made with fuel cell
vehicles and of our belief in the promise of this
technology," said Tetsuo Iwamura, American Honda
President and CEO at the LA Auto Show. "Step by step,
with continuous effort, commitment and focus, we are
working to overcome obstacles to the mass-market potential
of zero-emissions hydrogen fuel cell vehicles."
Unlike the Chevy Equinox
Fuel cell vehicle, for example, the FCX Clarity will
combine a lithium-ion battery pack and a single hydrogen
storage tank to power the vehicle's electric motor. The
Equinox, on the other hand, uses a NiMH battery pack and 4
hydrogen storage tanks.
Honda's new V Flow fuel
cell stack offers a 65 percent improvement in size
compared to the previous Honda FC stack (smaller is
better). The new stack also achieves 14 extra kilowatts
for a total output of 100 kWs.
According to Honda, the
FCX Clarity achieves an approximate equivalent of 68 mpg
combined fuel economy and offers a range up to 270 miles.
Unbelievably, Honda will
begin leasing the FCX Clarity in the summer of 2008 for
those whom live in the greater Los Angeles Area for $600
per month.
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