Honda Clarity: Pioneering Sustainable Mobility
An in-depth exploration of Honda's innovative alternative fuel vehicles, from hydrogen fuel cells to plug-in hybrids.
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Overview
A Versatile Nameplate
The Honda Clarity is a nameplate utilized by Honda for its range of alternative fuel vehicles. Initially introduced in 2008 as the hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCV) Honda FCX Clarity, the Clarity lineup expanded in 2017 to encompass the battery-electric Honda Clarity Electric and the plug-in hybrid electric Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, alongside the next-generation Honda Clarity Fuel Cell.
Production and Legacy
Production of the Clarity series concluded in August 2021, with leases for the fuel cell variant extending into 2022. Notably, the 2016-2021 Honda Clarity is recognized as one of the last production cars to feature fixed rear wheel skirts, a distinctive design element.
Market Position
Positioned as a mid-size sedan, the Clarity models aimed to showcase Honda's commitment to advanced powertrain technologies and sustainable transportation solutions. The various variants offered distinct advantages in terms of range, refueling/recharging times, and environmental impact.
Historical Context
The FCX Clarity Era (2008-2014)
Building upon the 2006 FCX Concept, the Honda FCX Clarity was a pioneering hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle. It offered zero emissions, rapid refueling (approximately five minutes), and a substantial driving range within a full-function large sedan package. It marked Honda's entry into retail customer leasing of hydrogen FCVs. Availability was initially limited to regions with hydrogen refueling infrastructure, such as Southern California, Japan, and select European markets. Production ceased in 2014, with approximately 48 units leased in the US during its tenure.
Expansion and Evolution (2016-2021)
Honda revitalized the Clarity nameplate in 2016 with the unveiling of the Clarity Fuel Cell concept, followed by announcements of battery-electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants for a 2017 release. Each powertrain variant featured unique styling cues and color palettes. Despite initial sales peaks in 2018, demand for the Clarity series gradually declined, leading to its discontinuation in August 2021.
Technical Specifications
FCX Clarity (2008-2014)
| Manufacturer | Honda |
|---|---|
| Production | 2008–2014 |
| Class | Mid-size car |
| Body Style | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FF (Front-engine, Front-wheel drive) |
| Powertrain | 100 kW (130 hp) Fuel Cell Electric Motor |
| Range (EPA) | 390 km (240 mi) |
| Wheelbase | 2,800 mm (110.2 in) |
| Length | 4,834 mm (190.3 in) |
| Width | 1,847 mm (72.7 in) |
| Height | 1,468 mm (57.8 in) |
| Curb Weight | 1,600 kg (3,528 lb) |
Clarity Electric (2017-2019)
| Manufacturer | Honda |
|---|---|
| Production | 2017–2019 |
| Class | Mid-size car |
| Body Style | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FF (Front-engine, Front-wheel drive) |
| Powertrain | 120 kW (160 hp) Electric Motor |
| Battery Capacity | 25.5 kWh |
| Range | 143 km (89 mi) |
| AC Charging (240V) | Approx. 3.5 hours |
| Wheelbase | 2,750 mm (108.3 in) |
| Length | 4,895 mm (192.7 in) |
| Width | 1,877 mm (73.9 in) |
| Height | 1,478 mm (58.2 in) |
| Curb Weight | 1,825 kg (4,024 lb) |
Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (2017-2021)
| Manufacturer | Honda |
|---|---|
| Production | 2017–2021 |
| Class | Mid-size car |
| Body Style | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FF (Front-engine, Front-wheel drive) |
| Engine | 1.5 L i-VTEC I4 (77 kW / 103 hp) |
| Electric Motor | 135 kW (181 hp) AC Synchronous Permanent-Magnet |
| Transmission | e-CVT (Single-speed) |
| All-Electric Range | 76 km (47 mi) |
| Combined Range | 550 km (340 mi) |
| AC Charging (6.6 kW) | Approx. 2.5 hours |
| Wheelbase | 2,750 mm (108.3 in) |
| Length | 4,915 mm (193.5 in) |
| Width | 1,875 mm (73.8 in) |
| Height | 1,480 mm (58.3 in) |
| Curb Weight | 1,838 kg (4,052 lb) |
Design Philosophy
Interior Ergonomics
The Clarity's interior was designed with a focus on driver comfort and technological integration. Upholstery materials often featured Honda's plant-derived Bio-Fabric. The dashboard presented intuitive displays, including a color-changing dot to indicate hydrogen consumption efficiency for FCV models, alongside battery power levels and motor output indicators. The speedometer was strategically placed above the main cockpit display to enhance driver focus on the road.
Exterior Differentiation
While sharing a common platform, the different powertrain variants of the Clarity were distinguished by unique design elements. These included specific front styling, headlight configurations, and taillight designs, often complemented by a designated "hero color" for each variant to visually communicate its advanced powertrain.
Manufacturing and Assembly
Production Sites
The initial Honda FCX Clarity was assembled in Japan at the Honda Automobile New Model Center in Takanezawa, Tochigi Prefecture. The fuel cell stacks themselves were produced at Honda Engineering Co., Ltd. in Haga, Tochigi Prefecture. Later generation Clarity models, including the Fuel Cell, Electric, and Plug-in Hybrid variants, were primarily manufactured at Honda's Sayama plant in Japan.
Production Timeline
The FCX Clarity was produced from 2008 to 2014. The expanded Clarity series, encompassing Fuel Cell, Electric, and Plug-in Hybrid models, was produced from 2016 to 2021. The Sayama plant, responsible for these later models, was scheduled for closure in March 2022.
Operational Costs
Hydrogen Fuel Economics
In 2009, hydrogen fuel derived from natural gas cost approximately $5 to $10 per kilogram in California. Including compression and transportation costs, retail prices ranged from $12 to $14 per kilogram. While this was more than double the cost of gasoline per equivalent energy unit, fuel-cell vehicles like the FCX Clarity offered superior efficiency, averaging around 100 km per kilogram of hydrogen, effectively doubling the mileage compared to similar gasoline-powered vehicles.
Leasing and Maintenance
The FCX Clarity was primarily available through leasing programs. In 2010, a typical lease cost around $600 per month, which notably included comprehensive coverage such as collision protection, all maintenance, and roadside assistance, along with the hydrogen fuel itself. This integrated service model aimed to simplify the ownership experience for early adopters of this advanced technology.
Key Features
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Honda Clarity models were equipped with modern infotainment systems, typically including an AM/FM radio with a CD player, integration for iPod and iPhone, a USB port, and an auxiliary input jack. Advanced features often included a voice-activated GPS navigation system and access to XM satellite radio, providing a comprehensive user experience.
Connectivity and Convenience
Bluetooth connectivity was standard, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming. Digital instrumentation provided clear and accessible vehicle information. The inclusion of features like the Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) on later models enhanced safety by emitting audible warnings at low speeds in electric mode.
Market Reception
Initial Interest
Upon its unveiling, the Honda FCX Clarity generated significant public interest, with reports indicating approximately 50,000 inquiries via its website shortly after its debut. This indicated a strong curiosity and potential demand for advanced, environmentally conscious vehicles.
Sales Performance
Despite initial enthusiasm, the Clarity series faced challenges in achieving substantial sales volumes. US sales peaked in 2018, its first full year on the market, with just over 20,000 units registered across all variants. By 2021, deliveries had dropped significantly to 2,597 units, reflecting market trends and potentially the limitations of alternative fuel infrastructure.
Powertrain Variants
Clarity Fuel Cell (FCV)
This variant utilized a hydrogen fuel cell stack to generate electricity, offering zero tailpipe emissions. It was characterized by its rapid refueling capability and a substantial EPA-estimated range, making it a viable option for early adopters of hydrogen technology. Availability was geographically restricted due to hydrogen infrastructure limitations.
Clarity Electric (BEV)
The all-electric Clarity EV featured a 25.5 kWh battery, providing an EPA-rated range of 143 km (89 miles). It supported DC fast charging via a CCS Type 1 combo port. This model was primarily available via a three-year lease in select US states. Production for the electric variant concluded at the end of 2019.
Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
The PHEV model combined a 1.5L i-VTEC engine with an electric motor, offering an impressive all-electric range of 76 km (47 miles) and a total combined range of 550 km (340 miles). It was the most widely available variant, sold in all 50 US states and Canada. It also qualified for significant federal tax credits and state incentives due to its battery capacity.
Incentives and Tax Credits
United States Federal Incentives
Purchasers of the FCX Clarity were eligible for a Section 30B(b) income tax credit, initially up to $12,000, though this expired in 2014. The later Clarity Fuel Cell (FCV) qualified for an $8,000 federal tax credit. The Clarity Plug-in Hybrid was eligible for a maximum $7,500 federal tax credit, reflecting its plug-in capabilities and battery size.
California and State Rebates
As a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV), the Clarity FCV qualified for a $4,500 rebate in California through the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP). While lessees could receive this state rebate, the federal tax credits were typically retained by Honda. The Clarity PHEV also benefited from state-specific incentives for plug-in vehicles.
Motorsport Association
IndyCar Pace Car Duties
The Honda FCX Clarity served as the official pace car for significant motorsport events. It led the field at the 2008 Indy Japan 300 at Twin Ring Motegi in Tochigi, Japan. Subsequently, it also performed pace car duties for the 2011 Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg in Florida, highlighting its role as a flagship vehicle for Honda's advanced technology.
Accolades and Recognition
Prestigious Honors
The Honda Clarity garnered notable recognition for its innovative approach to sustainable mobility. It was awarded the 2009 World Green Car of the Year, underscoring its environmental credentials. Additionally, it received the 2008 Good Design Award from the Japan Institute of Design Promotion. BBC's Top Gear also acknowledged its significance, naming it the "most important car for 100 years" in one of its reviews.
Related Information
Further Exploration
- List of fuel cell vehicles
- Honda e (Similar drivetrain to Clarity Electric)
External Resources
- Honda FCX Technology (Japanese)
- Honda Fuel Cell Page
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References
References
- Honda Clarity EV 80 miles range price
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Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not automotive advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding vehicle specifications, performance, or maintenance. Always refer to official Honda documentation and consult with qualified automotive professionals for specific needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.