Ahead Of The Curve
When it comes to alternative fuel vehicles, Honda has always taken a lead role in research and development. In the late '90s, with the introduction of the hybrid electric-powered Insight, as well as the announcement of the Civic GX natural gas vehicle making headlines, the Honda name became synonymous with creating low-to-zero-emissions vehicles. Though sporty offerings like the S2000 and Civic Si were still brought to the table, there's no denying that the automaker has its sights set on clean-burning vehicles for their loyal fan base. The FCX Clarity is in fact, a culmination of those ten years. They now hold the title of producing the world's first hydrogen-powered vehicle produced from the ground up, rather than a modified existing platform; a feat that many would consider far too risky with such and unsure future in public interest.
Back In The Day
The spirit of Honda, inspired by its founder, Soichiro Honda, has always revolved around breaking ground, going against the grain, and being first. Events that might seem trivial to some, like Mr. Honda's decision to unveil the first Honda auto, the S360, in crimson red (a color, at that time, reserved strictly for emergency vehicles) made a major statement that sent shockwaves through the automotive world during that era. More recently, in 1999, the FCX V1 and V2 natural gas vehicles were introduced as test mules, followed by V3 and V4 a few years later. With no guarantee that these vehicles would ever be certified for street use, or that commuters would even have an interest in the idea, meant that Honda was once again taking the road less traveled. With each new version of the vehicle came more range, more efficiency, and more public awareness. In 2002, the FCX became the first fuel-cell vehicle certified by the California Air Resources Board (C.A.R.B.) for commercial use. A year later, Honda is recognized as the first automaker to supply a fuel-cell vehicle to a private corporation. More certifications are received, more recognition given, until June 30th, 2005; Honda delivers their FCX fuel cell vehicle to the first individual customer in the world.
An Offer We Couldn't Refuse
I received an offer from Honda to borrow the FCX Clarity for a week, and test its efficiency for my daily commute. I live in the heart of San Diego and travel each day to my office in Anaheim. The trip is approximately 85 miles each way, but there was one major issue that had me a little nervous prior to accepting the keys. Because the technology is still under development, the only filling station between my two points of travel is located in the city of Irvine, approximately 16 miles from my office. Though the Clarity is rated at around 210 miles per fill up, I would be cutting it pretty close each day, and the plan was to fill up, drive home, drive to the office, then head back to the station for more fuel.
First Impression
When I arrived at the filling station, I finally got a firsthand look at the FCX Clarity in person. The front end features Accord-like headlights, though the slope of the hood and the lower air dam reminded me of the newer-generation Si. Its profile was very sleek and the attention to aerodynamic efficiency was apparent. In the rear, a small window, reminiscent of the '88-'91 CRX is prominent and was probably the culprit that stirred up countless internet rumors about "the new four-door CRX" that plagued every Honda forum for months. As I opened the driver-side door, I was expecting ergo-friendly and economic bare-bones Civic, but instead got futuristic and swooping. Yes, swooping. It's the only word I can use to describe the gorgeous flow of the light-skinned interior that seemed to travel from the dash to the rear seats effortlessly. A nice surprise, as was the roomy rear interior that would give me a chance to pack the with a few passengers for road testing.
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