
By Jon Quirk
15 November 2007

Honda is preparing to launch the world’s first fuel cell powered car as early as next summer. The Japanese car-maker unveiled the FCX Clarity at this week’s Los Angeles International Auto Show. The four-seater saloon (which resembles a slightly tubbier Toyota Prius) is a production-ready, hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicle that produces zero emissions.
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Based on Honda’s latest V Flow fuel cell platform, the FCX Clarity is powered by an ultra-compact hydrogen fuel cell stack. In a nutshell, hydrogen combines with atmospheric oxygen in the fuel cell stack and the energy from this reaction is then converted into emissions free electric power to move the vehicle. By also using a compact lithium-ion battery pack and regenerative braking, Honda expects the FCX Clarity to achieve a fuel consumption figure of 65mpg and more than a 250-mile range.

Honda initially plans to lease the FCX Clarity to a select number of clients in Southern California from next summer and gauge reaction. It is aiming to introduce three-year lease terms at a cost of $600 per month (approx £290), including maintenance and collision insurance.
A trial scheme in the UK is yet to be confirmed.
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