Our automotive techs at Independent Auto Care in Parker understand the popularity of Hondas. They’re fun to drive, are relatively easy to fix and can seemingly go forever with the right care. Honda also has several environmentally friendly vehicles, and the company is working towards zero-carbon-emissions. In today’s blog, we’ll tell you all about Honda’s alternative fuel vehicles.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles
Honda’s five-passenger Clarity Fuel Cell vehicle is hydrogen-powered and offers long-range, all-electric driving with zero emissions.
These new fuel cell cars are interesting. They run on hydrogen and take just a few minutes to refuel at a growing network of stations. Rather than using battery power, Honda’s fuel cell cars convert hydrogen into electricity to run the electric motor. A small onboard battery also stores energy during deceleration and braking, adding more power to the mix. The company claims that these vehicles get over 300 miles of smooth all-electric driving with no tailpipe emissions.
Battery Electric Vehicles
A more familiar type, Honda’s battery electric cars provide an all-electric driving option, also with no tailpipe emissions. These models use rechargeable lithium batteries and electric motors providing power to the wheels. These cars are a great option if you’re looking to be more environmentally responsible, helping reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. It’s also much cheaper to drive on electricity, which is a benefit most drivers would appreciate.
These cars work by getting power from rechargeable battery packs like those used in many consumer electronic devices. As this technology improves, battery electric vehicles will be able to drive longer and recharge faster. The Fit EV is Honda’s all-electric compact model, offering drivers the opportunity to avoid gas stations and enjoy an impressive 118-MPGe.
Hybrid Vehicles
Hybrids have been around for quite a few years now, and you’re likely familiar with how it works. At Honda, their hybrid vehicles use two sources of power – an internal combustion engine (uses gasoline) along with an electric motor – to provide increased fuel economy and lower emissions. They also have an onboard battery that stores energy generated by braking and deceleration, boosting its miles per gallon. In fact, the Honda Accord Hybrid 2017 has a 49 mpg rating.
Honda’s Alternative Fuel Vehicle History
The evolution started back in 1974 when the company introduced the Civic CVCC engine, which was a big breakthrough in reducing emissions and vehicle costs while increasing fuel efficiency.
Fast forward to 1997 when Honda introduced the EV Plus model, the first all-electric production vehicle powered by advanced nickel-metal hydride batteries. This innovation would eventually become part of the technology applied to Honda’s Insight and FCX Clarity models. Just the next year, Honda also released the Civic GX, the first and only fully assembly-line-produced CNG passenger car to run on a low-emission alternative fuel.
A decade later in 2008, Honda introduced the zero-emission FCX Clarity, which was named “the most important car in 100 years” by Top Gear. That’s saying a lot. The FCX Clarity’s fuel cell generates electricity by combining oxygen with hydrogen. Five years down the road, Honda also expanded its plug-in choices with the all-electric Fit EV and Accord Plug-In Hybrid.
So, now you know all about Honda’s alternative fuel vehicles. And if you own one or plan to buy one, our automotive technicians at Independent Auto Care in Parker can help you repair and maintain your vehicle, whether gas powered, electric, hydrogen or hybrid. We’ll make sure you get the most fun and longest life from your Honda. Call or contact us today for an appointment.