Peter Palmer: 2018 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Arrives: What You Need To Know

The 2018 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is now at select Honda dealerships in California. The Clarity Fuel Cell joins a growing lineup of Honda electrified vehicles, including the 2018 Accord Hybrid and the recently announced 2019 Insight. The automaker says their goal is to have electrified vehicles represent two-thirds of their global sales by 2030.

Power & Performance

The Clarity series, which includes the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, Clarity Fuel Cell, and Clarity Electric, each have a low, wide aerodynamic body. The Clarity Fuel cell features a Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell, 346-volt lithium-ion battery, and an AC Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Electric Motor. Honda classifies the transmission as a fixed, single-speed, direct-drive transmission with Sport mode and shift-by-wire technology.

The EPA miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe) ratings come in at 69 city, 67 highway, and 68 combined, with a refueling time of approximately three to five minutes when using 70 MPa stations. Driving range is estimated between 360 and 370 miles on average. The Clarity Fuel cell produces 174 horsepower and 221 lb-ft. of torque.

The Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety features is standard.

2018 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell. Photo: Honda North America.

Pricing

With $2,868 due at signing, drivers receive their new Clarity Fuel Cell on a 36-month lease for $369 per month. While lease terms can vary, Honda is advertising a generous mileage allowance of 20,000 miles per year. The lease also includes roadside assistance, up to $15,000 of hydrogen fuel, and up to 21 days of access to a luxury vehicle from Avis, although the rental is only good in California. Golden State residents are also eligible for an additional $5,000 rebate.

Availability

Retail leasing of the Clarity Fuel Cell is available through a network of 12 approved Honda dealerships in select California markets, including six dealerships in Southern California, five in the San Francisco Bay Area, and one in the Sacramento area. Honda says as the network of public hydrogen fueling stations expands, the Clarity Fuel Cell will be more readily available.

The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.