The new hydrogen-powered Honda CR-V can be charged from the power grid

Usually two petrol tank hatches mean a plug-in hybrid system, but not in the case of this Honda CR-V.

Honda has unveiled the new CR-V e:FCEV in the US. The company calls it the only fuel cell electric passenger vehicle made in America.

The Honda CR-V e:FCEV combines a fuel cell setup with a battery pack. You could say it's a plug-in hybrid that has a hydrogen unit instead of a petrol engine, but it also has a battery pack with external charging capability.

Propulsion is provided by a front-mounted electric motor with 174 horsepower and 310 Nm of torque. A compressed hydrogen tank holds 4.3 kilograms and provides a range of 270 miles (435 kilometres). As for the separate 17.7 kilowatt-hour battery pack, it has enough charge for 49 miles (78 kilometres) on the EPA cycle.

Thanks to the integrated bi-directional charging system, a variety of electrical devices can be connected to the CR-V e:FCEV. This can include appliances, camping equipment, power tools, and even a portable air conditioner.

The CR-V e:FCEV was Honda's first production model to utilise the second generation of the fuel cell module. This module is a joint development between Honda and General Motors. It is touted as more efficient, longer-lasting, advanced and cost-effective than the first generation in the Honda Clarity hydrogen sedan.

In California, the Honda CR-V e:FCEV will be available in 2025 exclusively in the Touring trim. This means that all amenities come standard, from electrically adjustable and heated front seats to a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Future owners will also get dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, a power tailgate and a wireless charging pad. A 9-inch touchscreen and 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster are standard. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can work wirelessly.

Source: Honda