The Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is not a conventional engine but a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain produced between 2016 and 2021. It generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, powering an electric motor with only water vapor as exhaust. The system features a 103 kW (139 PS) electric motor and a 141 kW fuel cell stack, delivering 300 Nm of instant torque for smooth, quiet propulsion.
Fitted exclusively to the Clarity Fuel Cell sedan, this powertrain was engineered for zero-emission driving with a focus on range and refueling convenience. Emissions compliance is inherent, as the only tailpipe emission is water. The system met all applicable zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) standards, including California Air Resources Board (CARB) certification.
One documented engineering focus was optimizing the durability of the fuel cell stack under varying environmental conditions. Honda addressed membrane degradation and cold-start performance through specific catalyst and humidification system designs, detailed in Technical Service Bulletin F18-001. No major generational updates were issued during its production run.
All production years 2016–2021 meet California Air Resources Board (CARB) Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) standards (CARB Executive Order #G-15-008).
The Honda Clarity Fuel Cell powertrain is a hydrogen-electric system engineered for zero-emission sedans (2016-2021). It combines a high-output fuel cell stack with a lithium-ion battery to deliver smooth, linear acceleration and a driving range of up to 589 km (366 miles). Designed to meet CARB ZEV standards, it prioritizes environmental performance and technological innovation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Power source | Hydrogen Fuel Cell | |
| Fuel type | Hydrogen (H₂) | |
| Electric motor output | 103 kW (139 PS) | |
| Fuel cell stack output | 141 kW | |
| Torque | 300 Nm | |
| Battery capacity | 1.7 kWh Lithium-ion | |
| Driving range | 589 km (366 miles) EPA | |
| Refueling time | 3–5 minutes (to 100%) | |
| Emissions | Zero tailpipe emissions (H₂O only) | |
| Cooling system | Dedicated fuel cell and powertrain cooling circuits | |
| Hydrogen storage | Three 70 MPa (10,000 psi) tanks (141 L total) | |
| System weight | Approx. 220 kg (fuel cell stack and motor) |
The fuel cell system provides silent, emission-free driving with rapid refueling but requires strict adherence to specialized maintenance schedules for the hydrogen system and fuel cell stack. Only Honda-certified technicians with hydrogen safety training can service the high-pressure tanks and fuel cell components. The lack of a conventional engine simplifies some maintenance but introduces unique requirements for the electrochemical system and humidification controls.
Range: EPA-rated range of 589 km (366 miles) is for combined driving cycles (CARB Executive Order #G-15-008).
Emissions: Zero tailpipe emissions certified under CARB Executive Order #G-15-008 for all model years 2016-2021.
Maintenance: Requires specialized hydrogen system maintenance by certified technicians (Honda SIB F18-001).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs FC-001, FC-002, FC-003, FC-004
Honda Service Information Bulletin (SIB): F18-001
California Air Resources Board Executive Order #G-15-008
The Honda Clarity Fuel Cell powertrain was used exclusively in the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell sedan with front-wheel-drive, transverse mounting. This system received no platform-specific adaptations, as it was designed solely for this model. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The powertrain is identified by the “Fuel Cell” badge on the rear of the vehicle and the unique hydrogen filler port on the front left fender. The 8th VIN digit for Clarity Fuel Cell models is 'F'. Under the hood, the absence of a traditional engine and the presence of orange high-voltage cables and a large power control unit are definitive identifiers. Critical differentiation: This is not a battery-electric or hybrid vehicle; it requires hydrogen fueling infrastructure. Service and repair are restricted to authorized Honda Fuel Cell dealerships.
The Clarity Fuel Cell's primary reliability focus is long-term fuel cell stack performance and hydrogen system integrity, with elevated incidence in extreme climate use. Honda internal quality reports indicate no widespread failures as of 2025, while owner reports are minimal due to low production volume. Adherence to specialized service schedules and use of certified hydrogen fueling stations are critical for system longevity.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2016-2021) and aggregated owner-reported data (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA CLARITYFUELCELL.
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