Honda’s FCX Clarity is a groundbreaking vehicle, one of very few fuel-cell powered vehicles on the road. However, it hasn’t gotten much attention, possibly because it doesn’t look the part. Honda’s rectifying that mistake with its next-generation fuel cell car, if the FCEV Concept is any indicator. Honda says it represents a “potential styling direction” for its next fuel-cell car.
The car in question is due in 2015, so there’s a chance that the FCEV Concept is closer to reality than you’d think. The car features large, sail-like fenders that wrap around the top and front of the car, creating a thoroughly unique folded-paper silhouette. The greenhouse is unbroken by pillarsand the rear wheels are fully skirted. Instead of individual headlights the front end is dominated by a satin-chrome bar with the distinctive Honda grille shape and features integrated LED lighting that turns it into a single running light at night. At the rear, a similar full-width taillight emphasizes the built-in spoiler and long, sloping fastback.
The next-generation fuel cell vehicle will offer significant improvements over the current generation, including a smaller and more efficient fuel cell stack and an estimated driving range of over 300 miles. The smaller fuel cell stack takes up less space, improving passenger and cargo room.
“The Honda FCEV Concept not only sets our direction for our next generation fuel-cell vehicle in 2015, but for future improvements in electric drive technology,” said Mike Accavitti, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co. “The advancements we are making are substantial, meaningful and very real.”
