While the entire automotive industry is shifting towards electric vehicles, some companies still believe in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV). Honda is one of them.
Recently, Honda has officially unveiled the e:FCEV hydrogen fuel cell version of the CR-V in the US market. However, the 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV is not just a conventional hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. Instead, it is a combination of hydrogen fuel cell and plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
The 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV with a unique powertrain
Specifically, the 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV is equipped with an electric motor on the front axle with a peak power of 174 horsepower and a maximum torque of 311 Nm. This electric motor is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell stack and a 4.3 kg hydrogen tank or a 17.7 kWh battery pack.
As a result, the 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV can travel up to 470 km. Meanwhile, the 17.7 kWh battery pack allows the vehicle to run 47 km without using hydrogen fuel. This feature helps minimize the impact of the lack of hydrogen fueling infrastructure. In the US, most hydrogen fuel stations are concentrated in California with 48 stations.
The 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV can travel 47 km without using hydrogen fuel
According to Honda, this model is suitable for driving around in the city. Meanwhile, the hydrogen system developed in partnership with General Motors (GM) will be responsible for longer trips.
Moreover, the 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV also has a two-way charging system, which means the driver can use the vehicle’s electricity to charge various electronic devices, camping equipment, or some small household appliances with a 1,500W power output 110V outlet.
In addition to the unique powertrain, Honda’s engineers have also improved the chassis and suspension system of the new CR-V e:FCEV. Therefore, the vehicle will be heavier compared to the regular gasoline and hybrid versions.
The 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV is heavier than the other two versions of this compact SUV
In addition to the powertrain, the 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV stands out from the other versions of this compact SUV with its exterior design. The front fascia has been updated with a new grille, larger air intakes, sleeker taillights, and an “e:FCEV” badge on the rear tailgate. The vehicle’s charging port is located on the front fender, while the hydrogen tank is located on the rear fender.
The 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV features a new front design
The taillights of the vehicle have also been slightly improved
The 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV features sporty black alloy wheels
The vehicle’s charging port…
… and hydrogen fueling port
In the US market, the 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV is only available in the high-end Touring trim level, so the vehicle comes fully equipped with a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support, wireless phone charging, heated eco-friendly leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, hands-free power tailgate, and a 12-speaker audio system. Of course, the vehicle is also equipped with the standard Honda Sensing active safety package.
The interior of the 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV
The 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV features eco-friendly leather seats…
… and a digital instrument cluster
The center control cluster is neatly arranged
Customers in California will be able to start leasing the 2024 Honda CR-V e:FCEV by the end of this year. According to previous information, besides the US, the vehicle will also be sold in Japan.