Honda introduces fuel cell FCX Clarity
Mon 16 June 2008
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Production of the first Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell passenger car has begun at Honda's research and development plant in Japan. A dedicated assembly line for the FCX Clarity has been established at the plant although the cars will largely be hand-assembled in small numbers.
Production includes processes unique to a fuel cell vehicle such as the installation of the fuel cell stack and hydrogen tank. Honda expect to produce a maximum of 200 vehicles in the first three years.
John Mendel, Executive Vice President of America Honda Motor Co, said it was "an especially significant day for American Honda as we plant firm footsteps toward the mainstreaming of fuel cell cars."
Deliveries in North America are at present limited to Southern California and have been taken up by several high profile Hollywood stars. Honda claims the lease program for the FCX Clarity is the world's first retail initiative for fuel-cell vehicles.
In support of the move, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has called for a state-wide network of hydrogen stations, but progress to date has been slow. Honda said it received 50,000 applications for the vehicle through its website but could only consider residents located near hydrogen filling stations in Torrance, Santa Monica and Irvine.
Honda also plans to launch a gas-electric hybrid-only model, as well as hybrid versions of its Civic, CR-Z and Fit models.
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