Honda unveiled the latest model in its fuel cell vehicle development program, the FCX-V4, today at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show.
The FCX-V4 hosts improvements in driving performance, maximum speed, acceleration and driving distance compared to the earlier FCX-V3 model. Honda's FCX-V4 combines an advanced fuel cell power system with a compact electric drive motor, integrated control systems, and a cabin large enough to seat four people and hold cargo. The FCX-V4 features improved range and quieter operation than previous fuel cell models for improved viability towards a commercial product.
All components of the fuel cell unit have been newly designed, achieving a more compact and efficient package. There are now two hydrogen fuel tanks, which have been moved from the trunk to under the passenger cabin floor, providing for additional storage volume and cargo space, and contributing to a nearly 70 percent increase in cruising range, increasing it from 110 miles to more than 185 miles.
The FCX-V4 powerplant features an advanced fuel cell stack and Honda-developed ultra-capacitor. The FCX achieves a top speed of 87 mph with an electric motor that has a maximum power output of 80 horsepower (60kW) and 176 lb.-ft.of torque (238Nm). Responsive takeoff and acceleration are achieved through the combination of a high-output fuel cell stack with the powerful instantaneous discharge capabilities of the ultra-capacitor. The ultra-capacitor also contributes to high fuel efficiency as it regenerates energy normally lost during braking.
Inside the vehicle, the digital instrument panel is now designed so that drivers can grasp at a glance how energy is efficiently managed in the interaction between the fuel cell and the ultra-capacitor unit.
"This fuel cell system is demonstrating the potential to be the next-generation power plant needed to address challenges such as developing alternative fuels, assuring air quality in our cities and reducing the impact of global warming," said Ben Knight, vice president of Honda Research & Development, and Honda's representative on the California Fuel Cell Partnership (CaFCP) Steering Team.
Honda is conducting extensive evaluations under a variety of road conditions to determine the market feasibility of fuel-cell vehicles. Since November 2000, Honda has been driving its vehicles at the California Fuel Cell Partnership in Sacramento, demonstrating the potential of these fuel cell-powered vehicles and alternative fuels.
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