Compared to previous versions, the FCX-V4 accelerates faster, has a higher top speed, goes a longer distance between charges and offers enhanced occupant safety. The newly developed high-pressure hydrogen tank, now positioned under the floor instead of the trunk, contributes to the vehicle's extended driving range of more than 180 miles (an improvement from more than 100 miles) and allows for increased luggage space.
Safety has been improved by enhancing the crush zones in both the front and rear of the vehicle. Maximum speed has increased to 87 mph (an improvement of 6 mph) and acceleration performance has been enhanced due to the greater efficiency of the fuel cell system. Other upgrades include a larger radiator for improved cooling performance. In addition, a newly designed digital meter indicates at a glance how the vehicle is managing the energy between the fuel cell and ultra capacitor.
Already known for its short start-up time, quiet operation and impressive acceleration, the FCX-V4 represents a significant step for Honda toward building a new type of environmentally friendly, non-polluting powerplant for automobiles. By emitting water and no other pollution, fuel cells offer solutions to reducing exhaust gas emissions and reducing global warming.
Honda has already conducted public road tests in the United States as part of the California Fuel Cell Partnership (CaFCP), a joint-participation project that includes the California and Federal government agencies, energy companies, auto manufacturers and fuel cell stack manufacturers. Honda also began public road tests in Japan in July 2001. From November 2000 through August 2001, Honda fuel cell vehicles have accumulated more 6,300 miles. Honda will continue to accumulate data from road tests toward improving its basic fuel cell vehicle technology, with the objective of introducing a production fuel cell fleet vehicle in 2003.
FCX-V4 Specifications
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Vehicle (Curb) weight: |
3,386 lbs. (1,740 kg) |
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Maximum Occupants: |
4 adults |
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Maximum Speed: |
87 mph (140 km/h) |
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Range: |
186 miles (300 km) |
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Electric Motor Power Output: |
80 horsepower (60 kW) |
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Electric MotorMaximum torque: |
176 lb-ft (238 Nm) |
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Electric Motor Type: |
AC synchronous |
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Fuel Cell Stack Type: |
PEFC (solid high-polymer type made by Ballard Power Systems) |
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Fuel Cell Power Output: |
78 kW |
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Fuel type: |
Compressed hydrogen gas |
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Hydrogen Storage Method: |
High-pressure hydrogen storage tank (5,000 psi) |
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Fuel Cell Power Storage: |
Honda Ultra Capacitor |
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Tank Capacity: |
34.3 gallons (130 liters) |