Honda Clarity Fuel Cell, dall'idrogeno ancora più efficienza

Completamente riprogettata ospita propulsore sotto al cofano

Fonte: ANSA

 

Roma, Italia. 27 Aprile 2017. Honda crede nell’idrogeno e conferma, con la seconda generazione della Clarity, che la propulsione con celle a combustibile può conciliarsi con una progettazione funzionale, e soprattutto non dissimile rispetto ai modelli con motori termici o elettrificati, della carrozzeria e del telaio.

Dopo aver ‘perso’ la sigla FCX, Clarity evidenzia infatti un design e una funzionalità che rendono questo modello già pronto per essere utilizzato dagli utenti tutti i giorni, con le stesse modalità di una berlina 5 posti ibrida, elettrica o termica.

Va detto, al riguardo, che questa possibilità esiste solo nei pochi mercati in cui è stata predisposta una infrastruttura per il rifornimento dell’idrogeno e non stupisce, dunque, che questo modello non venga importato in Italia.

Ai pochi utenti europei – in Gran Bretagna e Danimarca – che ne potranno sfruttare i vantaggi, come le emissioni zero allo scarico e l’aumentata autonomia (650 km secondo le norme NEDC), Honda Clarity mette a disposizione una cella a combustibile completamente riprogettata, con dimensioni più compatte ma con maggiore erogazione di potenza, 103 kW rispetto ai 100 della precedente FCX Clarity.

Innovazioni che hanno consentito ai progettisti giapponesi di disegnare una carrozzeria molto aerodinamica, molto rigida e anche molto più comoda e spaziosa.

Cella a combustibile, gruppo propulsore, cambio e unità di controllo della potenza ora sono raggruppati sotto al cofano e diversi interventi hanno permesso di ridurre il peso, che è del 15% inferiore a quello di una corrispondente berlina 5 porte a benzina.

La nuova Clarity Fuel cell è, tra l’altro, il primo modello di produzione equipaggiato con un inedito sistema di sovralimentazione elettrica con turbo a doppio stadio, che permette di incrementare la potenza generata. Inoltre una nuova unità Fuel Cell Voltage Control può ora inviare una tensione di 500 Volt al motore elettrico di trazione, con un incremento del 30% di efficienza rispetto al modello precedente.

In English

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Model Year 2017

Source: Honda Motor Europe

22nd April 2017. The world’s most advanced fuel cell vehicle

Sedan layout for five occupants – a world first for a fuel cell vehicle

Innovative downsizing of the fuel cell stack enables the complete powertrain to be housed under the bonnet

Lightweight, highstrength frame with a body that showcases advanced streamlined design

Longest maximum driving range rating of any zeroemission vehicle, offering approximately 650km (403 miles) under NEDC conditions

For the all new Clarity Fuel Cell, Honda aimed to eliminate the design compromises that are often found in alternativelyfuelled vehicles. Honda’s goal was to make a fuel cell car just as suited to everyday driving and longdistance travel as other sedans.

To this end, the fuel cell stack, which had been located in the centre tunnel of the previous generation model, was made signficantly smaller. This meant that it could be rehoused under the bonnet, thereby achieving a more efficient layout and larger cabin space. The reduction in packaging requirements in the underfloor area means that the car is a fuel cell sedan capable of seating five occupants in comfort – a world first.

The allnew Clarity Fuel Cell is a showcase for advanced aerodynamic design, with features that help to smooth the airflow around the car. The innovations complement the Clarity Fuel Cell’s lightweight and highstrength body frame, featuring a worldfirst application of hightensile lambdatype steel that offers excellent formability.

Ultrahigh tensile steel, aluminium and composites are used for 55% of the frame and body materials, which is significantly higher than the typical proportion of around 29% in other Honda sedans. As a result, the car’s unibody weighs approximately 15% less than an equivalent gasoline vehicle’s, which helps to boost its efficiency compared to rivals.

Honda’s ‘Advanced Modern Lounge’ theme for the cabin reflects the harmony of advanced technology and affords superior levels of comfort.

The allnew Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is the world’s most advanced fuel cell vehicle, and delivers the longest maximum driving range of any zeroemission vehicle: approximately 650km (403 miles) under NEDC conditions, based on Honda’s internal tests.

Its stateoftheart fuel cell stack is smaller than in its predecessor – the FCX Clarity – yet has a higher power output (103kW in new Clarity Fuel Cell compared to 100kW in FCX).

Innovative downsizing of the individual cells within the stack has enabled the complete unit to be housed on top of the motor, gearbox and Power Control Unit assembly.

The allnew Clarity Fuel Cell is the first production car equipped with Honda’s twostage supercharging electric turbo air compressor. The compressor further helps to downsize the powertrain, enabling a smaller fuel cell stack by boosting the intake supply pressure. A newlydeveloped Fuel Cell Voltage Control Unit delivers 500V to the drive motor, enabling it to produce 30% higher motor output than its predecessor.

The arrival of the new Clarity Fuel Cell in Europe is a key part of Honda’s ‘Electric Vision’, newlydeveloped Fuel Cell Voltage Control Unit delivers 500V to the drive motor, enabling it to produce 30% higher motor output than its predecessor.

The arrival of the new Clarity Fuel Cell in Europe is a key part of Honda’s ‘Electric Vision’, announced at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, which aims to have electrified powertrains in two thirds of its cars sold in Europe by 2025. The Clarity Fuel Cell reinforces Honda’s continued efforts to drive increased adoption of fuel cell vehicles and the creation of a viable hydrogen refuelling infrastructure across the continent. Honda will run a dedicated fleet of new Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles in European demonstration projects until 2022, showcasing its advanced fuel cell leadership, as well as the impressive realworld performance of these vehicles.

Initial production of the Clarity Fuel Cell is taking place at Honda’s specialist faciities in Tochigi, Japan, which will eventually expand volumes as demand grows. In Europe, the Clarity Fuel Cell is being trialled in limited numbers in UK and Denmark through the HyFIVE project.

Compact, stateoftheart fuel cell powertrain enables uniqueinclass sedan layout for five occupants

Complete fuel cell powertrain fits under the bonnet thanks to smaller fuel cell stack and reorientation of motor assembly

New stateoftheart fuel cell stack generates a higher power output from a much smaller package

Hightech leak prevention and dispersion technology provides outstanding safety

The allnew Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is powered by the company’s most advanced fuel cell technology developed to date. It is also the first production sedan from any manufacturer to house the entire fuel cell powertrain under the bonnet – an innovative example of Honda’s  ‘man maximum, machine minimum’ principle.

A fuel cell powertrain that fits under the bonnet

The comprehensive programme of downsizing all components and materials in the allnew Clarity Fuel Cell means the new, slimmer fuel cell stack can be housed under the bonnet and on top of the motor, gearbox and Power Control Unit (PCU) assembly.

The reduction in packaging requirements in the underfloor area means that the car is a fuel cell sedan that can accommodate five occupants in comfort – a world first. The complete fuel cell powertrain under the bonnet is comparable in size to Honda’s latest 3.5litre V6 gasoline engine and transmission.

Drive motor assembly

More space was freed up under the bonnet by reorienting the main drive motor, gearbox and a new PCU. The latter combines the Power Drive Unit (PDU) and the battery Voltage Control Unit (VCU) of the FCX Clarity into a smaller housing, representing another spacesaving innovation. The overall drive motor assembly was rotated through 90 degrees, taking the assembly from a vertical to a horizontal orientation. By combining functions and and a new PCU. The latter combines the Power Drive Unit (PDU) and the battery Voltage Control Unit (VCU) of the FCX Clarity into a smaller housing, representing another spacesaving innovation. The overall drive motor assembly was rotated through 90 degrees, taking the assembly from a vertical to a horizontal orientation. By combining functions and reorienting the motor unit, Honda was able to shrink the height of the assembly by 34%.

Fuel cell stack

The stateoftheart fuel cell stack comprises 358 individual cells, which are each 20% thinner than those in its predecessor, the FCX Clarity. The smaller cells are enabled by flatter and narrower flow channels for the hydrogen, oxygen and coolant, as well as a slimmer Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA).

Narrower gas flow paths in the separators mean that the amount of surplus condensate water in the oxygen channel is lower, which improves the air flow to the membrane. The enhanced air flow, as well as the use of more efficient MEA plates, has increased the electric power output per cell by 50% compared to Honda’s previousgeneration stack.

The increase in power density of the cells meant that fewer of them were needed to reach Honda’s desired power output for the stack. There are 30% fewer individual cells in the new Clarity Fuel Cell’s stack compared to the stack in the FCX Clarity, which means that it is significantly smaller.

Further packaging benefits were achieved by changing the orientation of the stack.

Previously, humidity in the gas flow paths within the stack meant that the fuel cells needed to be oriented vertically to allow gravity to drain away the surplus condensate. In the allnew Clarity Fuel Cell, the improved humidity management allows the cells – and therefore the entire stack – to be oriented horizontally.

Overall, Clarity Fuel Cell’s stateoftheart fuel cell stack is 33% smaller than its predecessor, yet it generates a higher power output.

Twostage supercharging air compressor

Situated at the base of the powertrain next to the motor assembly, Honda’s twostage supercharging electric turbo air compressor is used for the first time in a production car.

While the narrower gas flow paths in each fuel cell boost the power density of the stack, they require air to be supplied at a much higher pressure. Honda therefore designed a new electric turbo compressor that boosts the air supply pressure by 70%. The turbo air pump is enhanced by two different superchargers, one at each end of the compressor motor’s axis, providing the higher level of boost that enables the smaller stack.

The new electric turbo air compressor is significantly quieter than the previousgeneration air pump, which has therefore enabled the amount of soundsuppression materials in the new car to be reduced by 60% – saving weight and packaging requirements. The compressor is also 40% smaller than the air pump, which further benefitted Honda’s goal of reducing the overall powertrain size.

Compact and efficient hydrogen supply system

In the FCX Clarity, the gas pressure and flow rate from the hydrogen storage to the fuel Compact and efficient hydrogen supply system In the FCX Clarity, the gas pressure and flow rate from the hydrogen storage to the fuel cell stack was adjusted using a regulator relief valve and ejector. For the allnew Clarity Fuel Cell, Honda has developed an integrated supply unit that uses two gas injectors. The new system enables a more accurate control of both the pressure and flow rate from the tanks, and occupies approximately 40% less space within the powertrain.

Relocation of advanced lithiumion battery

The front layout of the cabin is optimised to achieve the low driving position and sleek roof line typical of a sedan. A highperformance lithiumion battery pack is neatly accommodated below the driver and front passenger seats, and is lighter and smaller than an equivalent Nickel Metal Hydride unit. Its output is 50% higher than the previous model, and it is housed in a sealed case designed specifically for the free space in the underfloor area, maximising legroom for both front and rear occupants.

The lithiumion battery pack can store electricity generated by the fuel cell stack, as well as that which is generated while decelerating. It provides supplementary power to the drive motor in situations where the fuel cell stack alone would not be sufficient, such as standing starts and fast acceleration.

Hydrogen storage and safety

While the overall hydrogen tank capacity in litres has been reduced compared to the previousgeneration car, the contents are kept at twice the pressure (70MPa, up from 35MPa), which enables the car to store 39% more hydrogen – up to a maximum of approximately 5kg, based on Honda’s internal tests.

The two tanks have a combined capacity of 141 litres of hydrogen, comprising a main tank of 117 litres under the luggage compartment and a 24litre tank underneath the rear passenger seats. The two hydrogen tanks are set as far forward and as low as possible, which helps to achieve luggage capacity in the boot of 11.8 cu ft (measured using the VDA method), which is large enough for up to three golf bags.

Honda’s hydrogen leak prevention and dispersion technology provides outstanding levels of safety. Sensors throughout the car constantly monitor the powertrain for potential inconsistencies in the hydrogen gas supply. If a leak is detected, the system can be shutoff to prevent any more gas escaping, while preciselyrouted ducts allow for safe venting and dispersion of any leaked hydrogen. The system also allows for hydrogen to be safely released from the vehicle in the event of a fire.

At the front of the car, a safety structure has been developed for the fuel cell stack to significantly increase the rigidity of its casing. Mounting the fuel cell stack under the bonnet required the collision impact resistance of the fuel cell stack structure to be four times greater than in its predecessor. The demands were met using a unique fastening bar that prevents a shift of cells resulting from the stack ‘jumping out’ of its holding structure.

3. Sophisticated, aerodynamic exterior design with an ecofriendly interior and outstanding cabin refinement

Design emphasises ‘stateliness’ and ‘gracefulness’

Fastback roofline with unique ‘bird back’ tail shape joins with other aerodynamic features to enable optimum efficiency

Low environmentalimpact materials including Ultrasuede used for 80% of interior surface finishes

Total Air Quality Management system deodorises air in the cabin and removes allergens

Honda’s design team focused on two key themes for the allnew Clarity: ‘stateliness’ and ‘gracefulness’. In order to express a clear signature for its environmental flagship, Honda has incorporated advanced new styling elements. Its futuristic take on the new Honda family ‘face’ – as seen on the allnew Civic – uses ultrathin LED headlights and unique daytimerunning lights.

The ‘Advanced Modern Lounge’ interior theme of the new Clarity Fuel Cell reflects the harmony of advanced technology and supreme cabin comfort. Thanks to the innovative packaging of the complete fuel cell powertrain under the bonnet, the allnew Clarity Fuel Cell offers a sedan layout that can accommodate five occupants –unique in its class.

The main aerodynamic goal for the exterior design was to maximise driving range, without compromising the spacious cabin layout or the forwardthinking styling. As a result, the allnew sedan is a showcase for advanced streamlining.

The sleek aerodynamic profile helps to reduce turbulence around the car, a fastback roofline sloping down to meet the high boot lid and creating a unique ‘bird back’ tail shape. The smooth glasshouse helps to disrupt the vortices generated at the A and C pillars, while the swooping tail reduces air resistance at the back of the car – mitigating a typical airflow problem that affects sedans in particular.

Airflow management

Innovative aerodynamic body features help to further reduce drag and boost efficiency, which ultimately helps to increase the driving range. Air is channelled in through ducts in the front bumper and guided out of the wheel arch ahead of the tyre, to help smooth the airflow around the wheel arch .

Meanwhile, airflow at the waist line is smoothed directly over the rear tyre using partial covers that cut across the top of the wheel arches. The lower airflow, just above the side skirt, is channelled through an inlet ahead of the rear wheel arch, and is then released out and over the rear tyre, helping to reduce the turbulence of air around the wheel arch.

Airflow is carefully managed through the car using ducting behind the open areas at the front, rather than mesh grille covers. Instead of a large opening that air can flow into in an uncontrolled manner, the new Clarity Fuel Cell has specific ducting to guide air to where it is needed, whether for cooling or aerodynamic streamlining purposes. Furthermore, underfloor covers ensure that the airflow under the car is not disturbed by unnecessary extrusions.

The bodywork is not the only area to benefit from Honda’s expertise in aerodynamics. A unique ‘hybrid’ alloy wheel comprises an 18inch fivespoke alloy, which is capped by a durable 10spoke circular trim featuring a line of moulded ridges on every other spoke.

These ridges help to draw out and discharge air from inside the wheels, which is beneficial to the aerodynamics as well as improving wheel cooling. The wheels are shod in newlydeveloped low rollingresistance tyres: 235/45 R18 Bridgestone ECOPIA EP160.

An additional design feature is the application of laser welding between the roof panel and side rails – a first for Honda. The seam between the side rails and roof panel does not use a conventional rubber trim strip to seal the join. Instead, Honda’s use of ‘laser brazing’ creates a fine seal between the panels that is more sophisticated than using conventional rubber trim.

Excellent sound insulation for a peaceful driving experience

Outstanding refinement is aided by the use of highefficiency insulating materials, including: dashboard inner and outer insulators; insulating covers beneath the drive motor and on the underside of the bonnet; windscreen and door windows made from specific noiseinsulating glass; soundsupressing wheel arch liners at the front and rear; a front subframe undertray; and noiseinsulating carpets.

Ecofriendly and recycled materials

Low environmentalimpact materials are used for approximately 80% of the interior surface finishes, bolstering Clarity Fuel Cell’s credentials as an environmentallyconscious flagship. An ecofriendly Ultrasuede finish across the dashboard and door cards is manufactured through a lowenergy process that uses recycled polyester. Elsewhere, the majority of the seating upholstery is trimmed with ‘Prime Smooth’ synthetic leather, with a bioyarn fabric backing to improve the texture.

A black Rosewood film finish on the dashboard structure produces an authentic appearance without the associated environmental impact of using real veneer. To produce an appearance virtually indistinguishable from natural material, Honda carefully mirrored the patterns of real wood grains. Completing the list of ecofriendly finishes, while a plantbased material is used to create the fibres for the noiseinsulating carpets and roof lining fabric.

Air quality management

The Clarity Fuel Cell makes use of Honda’s Total Air Quality Management system, which cleans, deodorises and removes allergens from the air before it reaches the cabin. An air quality sensor works with a highperformance allergyfree deodorising filter, before the air is subjected to oxygen catalyst and iongenerator technologies.

Air passing through the vents at the top of the dashboard is treated with innovative Plasmacluster Ion Technology to remove contaminants. Unlike conventional ‘ionisers’ is subjected to oxygen catalyst and iongenerator technologies.

Air passing through the vents at the top of the dashboard is treated with innovative Plasmacluster Ion Technology to remove contaminants. Unlike conventional ‘ionisers’ which produce only negative ions and do not deactivate contaminants, Plasmacluster produces both positive and negative ions, which can effectively destroy contaminants at the molecular level.

Air passing through the lower level vents is treated via an oxygen catalysis process, whereby allergens or bacteria are absorbed, deactivated and broken apart. Air kept in the ventilation cycle around the car is further cleaned by a Triple Fresh deodorising filter at the rear of the cabin.

Advanced incar infotainment

Standard equipment includes advanced incar infotainment, which aims to improve the presentation of information to the driver and ensure intuitive operation.

A new 8inch central monitor incorporates a larger viewing angle display to improve visibility from oblique positions.

Connectivity to the monitor is made possible by a cable, or by using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration. A link between the central monitor and the instrument display ahead of the driver means that certain operating functions can be displayed on the meter behind the steering wheel, to enable easier visibility at a glance.

A Fuel Cell Power Monitor displays the status of the fuel cell powertrain and storage, with Realtime fuel cell power use shown by a glowing blue ball graphic, which changes size according to the energy being discharged. Complementing this information for the driver, the Internavi ondemand telematics system shows realtime status information about the nearest hydrogen stations on the navigation display.

Advanced standard features also include a keyless smart entry system and Honda’s Premium Audio System. The latter provides a highgrade, professional sound experience, using a 12speaker, 540watt setup with a premium amplifier.

Improved washer jet system reduces waste

For the newlydeveloped windscreen washer system, nozzles are built into the blades to improve cleaning and reduce fluid waste. The builtin nozzles enable optimum spraying of cleaning fluid, determined based on vehicle speed and temperature, which is applied directly ahead of the wiper blade in motion.

A sprayer control calculates the level of cleaning fluid application; one controlling the direction of flow and the other controlling the rate of flow. The technology aims to deliver no more than the necessary amount to the necessary position on the screen, and maintain a clear view of the road ahead for the driver. The result is an improvement in forward visibility of 80% and a reduction in fluid use of 50%, compared to a conventional washer jet system.

4. Refined, highoutput motor and offering the longest driving range of any zeroemission vehicle

Longest maximum driving range rating of any zeroemission vehicle, offering approximately 650km (403 miles) under NEDC conditions

Powerful and refined drive motor with a maximum output of 130kW and a newlydeveloped

Fuel Cell Voltage Control Unit Sophisticated multilink rear suspension setup for excellent ride comfort and secure handling

The allnew Clarity Fuel Cell is the most fuel efficient hydrogen car in the world. Its pair of fuel tanks have a combined capacity of approximately 5kg of hydrogen, enabling an unrivalled maximum driving range of approximately 650km (403 miles) under NEDC conditions, based on Honda’s internal tests.

Higher output motor

A newlydeveloped Fuel Cell Voltage Control Unit (FCVCU) delivers input voltage of 500V to the main drive motor, delivering a 30% improvement in motor output while reducing the number of cells in the fuel cell stack.

To create a thinner FCVCU, newlydeveloped siliconcarbide power semiconductors are used, which operate at a switching frequency four times higher than conventional silicon – a world first for a production vehicle.

The drive motor’s maximum rotational speed of 13,000rpm is the highest in any of Honda’s fuel cell vehicles to date. Its maximum output is 130 kW (174 hp) and maximum torque is 17% higher than its predecessor’s, with a peak of 300Nm (221lb ft).

A more refined experience

Despite having a higher power output and a faster maximum rotational speed, the main drive motor is quieter and more refined than the previous Clarity’s motor. Additional structural ribs on the casing of the motor improve the rigidity of the unit and reduce vibrations. Torque fluctuations from the magnetic locking effect in the motor mechanism have been reduced, by using twice the number of skewed rotor bars. As a result, the motor sound transmitted to the interior when the car is accelerating is significantly lower.

The driver is offered two driving modes. ‘Normal’ is the default mode, offering a relaxed setup for driving in all conditions, with a rapid accelerator response and linear drive force. ‘Sport’ mode facilitates a more exhilarating driving experience delivering a quicker response for faster acceleration. In addition, there is improved motor regeneration response when the accelerator pedal is released, with higher gforce in the deceleration phase.

Reducing weight and improving stability

Aluminium panelling is used for various inner and outer skins of the Clarity Fuel Cell to save weight, including the bonnet, front wings, doors and boot lid. The front subframe also Reducing weight and improving stability Aluminium panelling is used for various inner and outer skins of the Clarity Fuel Cell to save weight, including the bonnet, front wings, doors and boot lid. The front subframe also comprises a hollow diecast aluminium section, which is a worldfirst on a production car. The aluminium rear subframe provides high rigidity, improving steering stability and weight distribution under heavy loads.

To help achieve a combination of excellent ride comfort and secure handling, the Clarity Fuel Cell features a sophisticated multilink rear suspension setup with five forged aluminium control arms. At the front, the new car uses MacPherson struts with hollow knuckles, forged lower arms and highstrength aluminium tierods.

5. Highstrength, lightweight chassis features worldfirst construction techniques

Worldfirst application of high lambdatype 980MPaclass Hightensile steel, enabling highstrength rigidity within a much slimmer stamping

High lambdatype steel can be pressformed into a singlepiece complex shape more readily than conventional 980MPa plates

Makes extensive use of aluminium, composites and ultrahigh tensile steel

Features Honda’s nextgeneration Advanced Compatibility Engineering collisionforce dispersion technology

The allnew Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is built on a bespoke highstrength chassis. A robust passenger cell is formed in ultrahigh tensile 1500MPaclass hot stamp steel for core strength. In a worldfirst application, newlydeveloped high lambdatype 980MPaclass high tensile steel is used in critical strength areas of the frame, including floor crossmembers.

This high lambdatype 980MPaclass hightensile steel can be pressformed into complex singlepiece shapes with similar ease to 590MPaor 780MPaclass plates, but it retains the high strength and rigidity within a much slimmer stamping. These slimmer sections enable more widespread use of this highstrength steel on the new Clarity Fuel Cell, saving weight compared to conventional steel stampings.

The proportion of ultrahigh tensile steels in the body frame is significantly higher than in a typical gasoline sedan. While these stampings are much stronger than lowergrade steel, they are also much lighter, helping the body frame to weigh approximately 15% less than that of an equivalent gasoline sedan.

The typical proportion of aluminium, composites and ultrahigh tensile steel in an equivalent gasoline car is around 29%. In the allnew Clarity Fuel Cell this material mix represents 55% of the frame and body materials.

A worldfirst material application is present in the use of a glassfibrereinforced plastic (GFRP) hybrid moulding for the rear bumper beam. The front bulkhead is manufactured with a resinbased hybrid structure with aluminium compornents, and is bolstered by a newlydeveloped bumper beam using 7000series highstrength alminium alloys.

Enhancing occupant protection

The car uses Honda’s nextgeneration Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. ACE uses a network of connected structural elements with extensive use of hightensile steel to distribute and disperse crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle.

The straightframe body provides a superb base structure that achieves excellent collisionforce dispersion characteristics. A network of front frame structures absorb and deflect collision forces from a frontal impact efficiently, reducing the forces transferred to the cabin, as well as more evenly dispersing the forces transferred to other vehicles involved.

6. Building enduser adoption of fuel cell vehicles in Europe and improving the hydrogen infrastructure

Arrival of new Clarity Fuel Cell in Europe is a key part of Honda’s new ‘Electric Vision’

Trials of fuel cell cars will help to develop a viable refuelling infrastructure

Honda will run a dedicated fleet of new Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles in European demonstration projects until 2022

The arrival of the allnew Clarity Fuel Cell in Europe is a key part of Honda’s new ‘Electric Vision’. The strategy, announced at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show by Honda Motor Europe’s President and COO, Katsushi Inoue, has a specific aim of having electrified powertrains in two thirds of European cars sold by 2025.

Clarity Fuel Cell in particular highlights Honda’s continued efforts to increase the adoption of fuel cell vehicles. As well as actively promoting the benefits to end users and demonstrating the advanced technology, the trials of fuel cell cars across Europe will also help to develop a viable refuelling infrastructure.

Honda will run a dedicated fleet of new Clarity Fuel Cell vehicles in European demonstration projects until 2022, showcasing its advanced fuel cell leadership, as well as the impressive realworld vehicle performance.

The company’s involvement with fuel cell demonstrations in Europe began with the first test drive of the FCX hydrogen hatchback in 2005. The unveiling of the next FCX Concept was followed in 2008 by test drives of that vehicle on Gotland Island, Sweden. Two examples of the first production version, the FCX Clarity, were introduced to Europe in 2009 to support the Clean Energy Partnership initiative in Germany, showcasing the capability and analysing the usage characteristics of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

As well as demonstrating its leadership in the development of fuel cell technology, Honda’s new Clarity Fuel Cell fleet will also encourage government confidence in fuel cell vehicles, and influence provisions for their future use. Demonstrations of the vehicle across Europe will further ensure that skills of Honda servicing agents are updated to prepare for the introduction of alternative powertrains to the Honda model range.

Honda’s participation in European hydrogen fuel cell projects will help to greatly increase the number of hydrogen refuelling stations across the region. The number of hydrogen refuelling stations constructed as part of the demonstration project alone will increase from six in 2017 to 55 by 2022.

7. Technical specifications

All technical information is preliminary and subject to change

All fuel consumption figures are subject to final homologation

Body and chassis Fivedoor, fiveseat sedan with unitary construction bodyshell. Compact and efficient hydrogen fuel cell powertrain driving the front wheels.

Powertrain: Clarity Fuel Cell, compact hydrogen powertrain

Type: Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC) with AC synchronous motor

Motor output: 130 kW (174PS) @ 4,5019,028 rpm (max. 13,000 rpm)

Motor torque: 300 Nm (221lb ft) @ 03,500 rpm

Number of cells in stack: 358 cells

Fuel cell output: 103 kW

Drive battery: Lithiumion

Transmission

Type: Singlespeed fixed ratio with ShiftbyWire

Suspension and damping:

Front: MacPherson strut type

Rear: Multilink type

Brakes

Front: Hydraulic, ventilated disc

Rear: Hydraulic, solid disc

Wheels and tyres

Wheel size

Tyres Front and Tyres – Rear x 18inch: 235/45 R18 94W

Steering

Type: Electric Power Assisted Rack and Pinion (EPS)

Steering turns (lock to lock)  2.41

Turning circle 11.7 metres (38.4 ft)

Dimensions (mm)

Exterior (mm)

Overall length 4,915

Overall width 1,875

Overall width (including door mirrors) 2,135

Overall height 1,480

Wheelbase 2,750

Track (front) 1,580

Track (rear) 1,585

Capacities (litres) Clarity Fuel Cell

Luggage (VDA method; seats up, to window): 11.8 cu ft

Fuel tank capacity: 141 litres (small 24 litre tank plus large 117 litre tank). Approximately 5kgof hydrogen, based on Honda’s internal tests

Fuel tank pressure 70 MPa

Honda’s internal tests

Fuel tank pressure 70 MPa

Performance and fuel consumption Clarity Fuel Cell

Maximum speed (km/h): 165km/h

0-100 km/h (seconds): 9.0sec (Honda internal tests)

Maximum driving range (km) / (miles): Approx. 650km (403 miles) under NEDC conditions, based on Honda’s internal tests

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