Honda CR-V e: FCEV Makes its Debut, Capable of Utilizing Hydrogen for Charging

On February 27, the Honda CR-V e: FCEV made its official debut in North America. Its arrival seems to offer a new solution or a compromise for the future energy sources used in automobiles. It can utilize hydrogen fuel while also relying on a power battery.

The CR-V e: FCEV is Honda's first mass-produced plug-in hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle launched in the United States. It is expected to be available for lease in California by 2025. In terms of appearance, this vehicle does not exhibit significant differences from the regular CR-V, and the main distinction is the absence of an exhaust pipe. Additionally, there are subtle differences in the front bumper design.

From the perspective of the power system, this vehicle primarily emphasizes the use of hydrogen fuel. However, the two energy sources can be switched freely, which addresses the current challenges of hydrogen refueling to a certain extent.

The new car adopts a brand-new second-generation fuel cell, it is equipped with a 4.5L hydrogen tank located under and behind the rear seat. When filled with hydrogen, the vehicle can travel 434 km. Additionally, in front of the hydrogen tank, there is a 17.7 kWh power battery that can be charged using the same method as pure electric vehicles, which provides an electric-only range of 46.7 km. Concerning the layout of the fuel tank and battery, the only question is whether the space in the rear seats and trunk will be affected. The power system in the new car delivers a maximum horsepower of 174 PS and a peak torque of 310 N·m.

In terms of configuration, it has a 10.2-inch digital instrument, a 9-inch HD touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto interconnection functions, wireless mobile phone charging, four optional driving modes, as well as the Honda Sensing system.

(Author:  Kevin Wong)