Honda launches FCEV concept

Honda has debuted a new fuel-cell concept vehicle at the LA Motor Show - the FCEV. The futurustic design and ultra-aerodynamic body hide a full size cabin that has room for five passengers. The look will be seen in Honda's next generation of fuel-cell vehicles due to be launched in 2015.

The Japanese firm has pioneered fuel-cell vehicles with the likes of the FCX Clarity. A fuel cell basically converts hydrogen into electricity and the only emissions are water vapour. At a time when cutting CO2 emissions are the focus of all car manufacturers and Governments, it makes a lot of sense. However, like all new technology, it's not cheap. At the moment the car can only be leased, but in terms of production costs, estimates put it anywhere up to £500,000 per car.

Honda’s next generation of fuel cell-electric vehicles will feature the world’s first fuel-cell powertrain contained completely in the engine room. This means more interior room as well as the flexibility of adding fuel cell drivetrains to existing vehicles in the future.

The fuel-cell has been significant improved with a 60 percent increase in power density while the actual size has been reduced by a third compared to the FCX Clarity. It is expected to deliver a driving range of more than 300 miles with quick refuelling of about three minutes.