Honda CR-V Hydrogen: Environmentally Friendly But Not Practical

CR-V e:FCEV 2025. (Doc. Honda Global)

JAKARTA - Honda has released the latest version of CR-V powered by hydrogen, namely CR-V e:FCEV 2025 and marketed in California, United States (US). This car is indeed environmentally friendly because its emissions are zero, but unfortunately it is considered not very suitable for daily use in the US. What's the article?

In terms of comfort, reported by Autoweek, June 28, there is no striking difference between CR-V e:FCEV and the gasoline version. The interior is exactly the same, except for the pressing lever which is replaced with setting buttons in the middle console.

Its performance is also quite interesting. Acceleration of this car is quite responsive thanks to the single electric motor powered 174 dk and torque 311 Nm. There are four driving modes that can be selected: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Snow. Honda has also optimized the structure and suspension of CR-V e:FCEV to add responsive and comfortable control. Its voice is a little more noisy than pure electric cars, but it is still much quieter than gasoline engines.

Hydrogen Infrastructure Shortage

The main problem with CR-V e:FCEV lies in the availability of hydrogen as fuel. Hydrogen is abundant on earth, but the charging infrastructure is still very limited, especially outside California. Currently in California alone there are only 55 hydrogen charging stations, with plans for the construction of 20 other stations.

Compared to the extent of California, the number of charging stations is certainly not sufficient. Moreover, coupled with Shell USA's decision to close 6 of their 7 hydrogen charging stations earlier this year.

Honda CR-V e:FCEV is also only available for rent, not for purchase. Prospective users must choose one of the three rental options offered, starting at around $3.000.

Honda CR-V e:FCEV is an environmentally friendly car with promising performance. However, the limitations of hydrogen charging infrastructure and the lease scheme implemented make this car not suitable for widespread use.

It is known that car manufacturers such as Honda, General Motors, Hyundai, Toyota, and BMW are a number of manufacturers who are looking at hydrogen for a suitable car fuel choice to use in the future. Well, maybe only time can answer!