How Honda and GM are proving hydrogen cars can work
Hydrogen fuel cell cars may not dominate the roads just yet, but Honda and GM are showing that the technology has real potential — and that hydrogen could still play a major role in the future of clean mobility.
Honda’s CR‑V e:FCEV: A Big Step Forward
Honda has revealed the production version of its CR‑V e:FCEV, powered by a fuel cell system co‑developed with GM. It offers:
- 372 miles of hydrogen range
- An additional 37 miles of battery‑only range
- Zero emissions from the fuel cell system
This makes it one of the most practical hydrogen vehicles yet, combining long‑distance capability with plug‑in flexibility.
A New Generation of Fuel Cell Technology
Honda says this is the first time its hydrogen fuel cell systems have been produced at scale. The system:
- Uses hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity
- Emits only water and heat
- Produces around 92 kW of electrical energy
- Delivers 174 bhp and 229 lb ft of torque
Crucially, the cost of the system has been reduced by two‑thirds compared to earlier models, thanks to improved materials and large‑scale production. Durability has also doubled, and low‑temperature performance has been significantly improved.
If you’re interested in how other manufacturers are challenging conventional thinking, you may enjoy our article on BMW’s stance against a categorical ban on combustion engines.
Hydrogen vs Battery EVs
Battery‑electric vehicles have surged ahead in popularity, but hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) still offer unique advantages:
- Fast refuelling
- Long range
- No tailpipe emissions
- Lightweight energy storage
However, challenges remain:
Hydrogen Production
Most hydrogen today is not produced using clean methods. Scaling up “green hydrogen” is essential.
Infrastructure
Hydrogen refuelling stations are still extremely limited compared to EV chargers.
Cost
Battery technology has advanced faster, making EVs more affordable for most buyers.
Even so, major brands like Honda, GM, Toyota, and BMW believe hydrogen will play a key role in achieving global climate‑neutral mobility.
A Promising Future for Hydrogen
Honda and GM’s collaboration shows that hydrogen technology is evolving quickly. The CR‑V e:FCEV demonstrates that fuel cell vehicles can be practical, efficient, and increasingly cost‑effective.
Hydrogen may not have taken over yet — but it’s far from out of the race.
For more insight into the future of mobility, take a look at our article on self‑driving cars coming to UK roads within two years.
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