All-New Honda CR-V Crossover: Hydrogen Fuel Cell and Leasing Benefits
The Honda CR-V crossover received an environmentally friendly fuel-powered version in the USA.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled its latest hydrogen fuel cell crossover, the CR-V e: FCEV, which will be available for sale in the United States this summer. This model will be the first FCEV from the Japanese manufacturer to feature plug-in charging, which allows the built-in battery to be refilled from an external power source. The innovation improves the usability of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, combining the benefits of long-range and fast hydrogen refueling.
Advantages of the new crossover
The CR-V e:FCEV will have a range of over 270 miles on a full tank of hydrogen and an additional range of over 29 miles in electric mode. Based on the 6th generation CR-V, the vehicle promises excellent utility and SUV-like capabilities, making Honda CR-V competitors lag behind.
Honda also offers up to $30,000 in hydrogen credits for the new vehicle leasing. Lease options for the CR-V e:FCEV are accessible through 12 authorized Honda dealerships in specific California markets. Six of these dealerships are in Orange County and Los Angeles in Southern California, five locate in the San Francisco Bay area, and another one is in the Sacramento area.
Honda offers three different monthly lease options for the CR-V e:FCEV, all based on a $50,000 MSRP. The most popular choice is expected to be the three-year/36,000-mile lease at $459 per month, inclusive of a $15,000 hydrogen refueling credit distributed annually.
Honda offers a two-year lease at $489 per month and a six-year lease at $389 per month. The two-year lease includes a 30,000-mile per year mileage allowance and a $25,000 hydrogen refilling credit, while the three- and six-year leases align with 12,000 miles per year, standard for the industry.
The lease plans include additional benefits such as up to 21 days of Avis rental car access in California, eligibility for Clean Air Vehicle decal, and round-the-clock roadside assistance. This decal allows drivers to use the single-occupant HOV lanes on numerous highways throughout the state.
The experts from the Indy Auto Man Indianapolis used car dealership agree that these conditions are highly advantageous and worth considering. Taking into account opportunities the car dealerships offer in terms of current lease buyouts, even owners of leased vehicles can opt for the new Honda CR-V.
Ground-breaking features
The CR-V e:FCEV features a fuel system developed in collaboration with General Motors and produced by their joint venture. The car will be made at Honda's plant in Ohio, USA, with subsequent export to Japan, and plans to launch sales in North America before the end of 2024. Honda is committed to achieving carbon neutrality for all its products by 2050 and sees hydrogen as a key energy carrier alongside electricity.
The CR-V e:FCEV offers a spacious interior similar to the base CR-V model and innovative cargo space with two-level storage. The car features a design that emphasizes the intelligent and dynamic appearance unique to the FCEV, as well as an interior that combines high quality and environmental friendliness.
The updated fuel system significantly lowers the cost of ownership compared to the 2019 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell system, doubles durability, and improves cold resistance. The CR-V e:FCEV is equipped with an alternating current (AC) socket and external AC power supply function, allowing the vehicle to be used as a power source during power outages or for outdoor activities. The Japanese version is also equipped with a direct current (DC) connector, expanding the CR-V use in emergencies or outdoor events.
Hydrogen-powered vehicles benefits
The main advantage of hydrogen-powered vehicles is the absence of carbon dioxide as a by-product. Accordingly, cars like the new Honda CR-V do not contribute to air pollution and global warming.
Another advantage is the absence of noise during operation. This is especially noticeable in comparison with cars equipped with internal combustion engines.
Maximum torque is available from zero seconds of hydrogen cell startup thanks to an electric motor. It delivers its full potential immediately, unlike a gasoline or diesel engine, requiring preheating.
Refueling is faster, which is also a significant advantage during long trips.
Cons of hydrogen cars
The main disadvantage of hydrogen fuel is the difficulty in its transportation and storage. Hydrogen has to be compressed in a tank under high pressure to meet the vehicle's energy needs. This requires additional energy and a high-strength tank to withstand pressure of 700 bar.
In addition, a hydrogen car engine does not use pure hydrogen, but a hydrogen element, the production of which is associated with additional expenses. The high cost of the entire system and the fuel itself limit the possibility of completely replacing petroleum products with hydrogen.
That's why there are not so many competitors in this market. Apart from the recently introduced Honda CR-V e:FCEV, the Hyundai Nexo compact crossover and the Toyota Mirai sedan stand as the sole alternative fuel cell vehicles currently accessible for purchase or lease in the United States.
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