Japanese legacy automaker Honda proudly announced Wednesday the official production commencement of the US‘ first fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV), the 2025 CR-V e:FCEV.
Production begins for America’s first plug-in hydrogen fuel cell CR-V
According to the press release, Honda started producing the fuel-cell electric vehicle version of its CR-V crossover in Ohio.
What’s remarkable about Honda’s new offering in the US market is its capability to run both on electricity and hydrogen. It can plug into electric vehicle charging stations and replenish from fuel cell stations.
According to the US Department of Energy, 56 fuel cell stations are currently in the country. However, they are all concentrated in California.
It currently undergoes production at its Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Ohio, making it the only made-in-America FCEV.
Performance
Honda’s CR-V e:FCEV boasts an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 270 miles on a single tank of hydrogen. Meanwhile, its battery can deliver up to 29 miles of all-electric range.
It leverages the major success of its predecessor, the Honda CR-V. According to Honda, the CR-V is “America’s best-selling CUV of the past quarter century.”
The new CR-V e:FCEV leverages this strong foundation to offer generous cabin space, cargo capacity, and power.
Replenishing the CR-V e: FCEV’s power with hydrogen is as fast as refuelling a gas-powered car. Meanwhile, recharging its battery only takes 1.8 hours via a level 2 charger to add up to 29 miles of electric range.
Even more, it features the Japanese company’s Honda Power Supply Connector. With this feature, owners can utilize the vehicle as a clean power source to support small appliances such as camping equipment and other power tools.
A significant step towards cleaner transportation options
Honda is highly optimistic that the production start of the CR-V e: FCEV will play a crucial role in its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner mobility.
“Producing a zero-emission fuel cell electric vehicle is one more step toward Honda’s global goal of achieving carbon neutrality for our products and operations.”
Patrick McIntyre, PMC Head
Honda aims to have its battery-electric and FCEV models account for 100% of its sales by 2040. Its EV Hub in Ohio will substantially aid its electrification targets, taking over production of its North American EVs. It is also intensifying investments in Canada, where it seeks to build a solid supply chain to support its electrification push.
