Unexpected highs and lows of electric vehicles have forced car makers to come up with other zero-emission technologies. Honda is one of the three automakers announcing a hydrogen-powered fuel-cell vehicle. The OEM has revealed some details about its best-selling CR-V model, which will hit roads in late 2025 without compromising driving range and payload capacity.

What We Know So Far

The Honda CR-V e: FCEV will be a compact crossover that will compete against the Toyota Mirai sedan and Hyundai Nexo crossover. This technologically advanced SUV will be a collaborative project of Honda and General Motors’s Fuel Cell System Manufacturing (FCSM). The joint venture has established its facility in Michigan as this fuel-cell EV will be first available in the US only due to the good sales prospects.

2025 Honda CR-V e: FCEV Specifications:

· Available in one trim only: Touring model

· Length: 187.6 inches

· Wheelbase: 106.3

· Battery capacity: 17.7 kWh

· EPA-rated range: 270 miles (including 29 miles of electric range)

· Power: 174HP

· Torque: 229 lb-ft

· Can be charged from residential chargers.

· Battery will have bi-directional charging capability to save on electric bills.

· 4 driving modes: Normal, ECO, Sport, Snow

· 9-inch touchscreen

· 10.2-inch cluster panel

· Apple CarPlay

· Android Auto

· Wireless Phone Charging

· 12-speaker Bose audio system

What is Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology?

This technology combines the benefits of hydrogen fuel cells and electric batteries. Since hydrogen is present in abundance universally, its collection is not an issue. However, its storage requires high pressure and low temperature, which will be a challenge impeding the automakers’ advancement in this project. The best thing about this innovation is that it uses compressed hydrogen in combination with air and produces water vapors as the emission.

The ground-breaking innovation of hydrogen-fuel cell-powered cars is best suited for light vehicles only. Time will decide the success and failure of this innovation, similar to electric vehicles.