Rahul Somvanshi
Honda is showing its commitment to the future of hydrogen fuel cells by announcing significant expansions in the industry. As part of this effort, the company plans to launch a CR-V-based fuel cell electric vehicle in 2024 in both North America and Japan. This vehicle will feature a fuel cell system co-developed with General Motors that boasts one-third the cost and double the durability of the previous system used in the 2019 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell.
In addition to its fuel cell capabilities, the CR-V-based vehicle will also come equipped with plug-in electric functionality, allowing owners to charge it at home and alleviate any concerns about limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure. Honda is not slowing down in its efforts to advance fuel cell technology, with plans to develop a system by 2030 that is half the cost and double the durability of the GM co-development. The company even claims that the cost per unit could eventually be comparable to a diesel engine.
In an effort to also cater to the commercial sector, Honda has its sights set on fuel-cell-powered commercial vehicles. The company is working with Isuzu on a heavy-duty truck set to begin on-road demonstrations in Japan by the first quarter of 2024 and is already testing a similar rig with Dongfeng in China.
Honda aims to bring about a revolutionary change in the construction industry by incorporating fuel cells into their products, starting with excavators and wheel loaders. This innovative approach by Honda to power these heavy-duty machines will not only make them more efficient, but it will also be environmentally friendly.
The company’s vision goes beyond just the construction industry. Honda has collaborated with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency with a goal to extend the use of fuel cells to space. The plan is to harness the power of solar energy to produce oxygen and hydrogen through electrolysis, which will then be used to generate electricity and water, creating a “circulative renewable energy system”.
Honda’s ultimate objective is to achieve carbon neutrality across all its products and operations by 2050. The company is committed to reducing its impact on the environment and leaving a positive legacy for future generations.
Honda recognizes the significance of collaboration in the development and implementation of hydrogen fuel cell technology. In order to bring fuel cell systems to the forefront of commercial vehicles, it is vital to address the challenges faced, such as reducing development costs, lowering installation time, controlling overall expenses and ensuring a stable supply of hydrogen.
To achieve this goal, Honda has taken a proactive approach by offering support and coordination in the supply of hydrogen. This would make the automaker a one-stop-shop for customers looking to adopt fuel cell technology, as Honda will provide development support to tailor its fuel cell systems to their specific needs.
In its efforts to promote the use of hydrogen fuel cells, Honda has joined forces with key players in the industry, such as the Japan Hydrogen Station Network Joint Company (Japan H2 Mobility/JHyM) to expand the hydrogen station network in Japan. The automaker is also collaborating with companies such as Shell and FirstElement Fuel in North America to support hydrogen station businesses. For Europe, Honda is in the process of planning for a demonstration test of an energy ecosystem that blends renewable energy and hydrogen.
