Honda Collaborates with General Motors on Mutual Fuel Cell Production
In a bold move towards a greener future, Honda has been at the forefront of fuel cell technology development. Over the past three decades, the Japanese automaker has been conducting extensive research and development in this field, leading the industry in the deployment of fuel-cell technology through real-world testing and customer deployments.
This year, Honda is set to launch an all-new CR-V FCEV, marking it as the only fuel cell electric passenger vehicle made in America. In a significant step, Honda has also begun mass production of its new hydrogen fuel cell system at Fuel Cell System Manufacturing LLC in Brownstown, Michigan.
The new Honda fuel cell system advances performance, doubles durability, and reduces cost by one-third compared to the previous generation system. This system will not only power Honda's vehicles but also be expanded to various internal and external applications. Honda is planning to apply its fuel cell system to construction equipment such as excavators and wheel loaders.
Honda sees hydrogen as one of the high-potential energy carriers to support renewable energy and electrification. To this end, Honda will begin applying stationary FC power station technologies to Honda facilities and data centers globally in the coming years. This includes the introduction of a zero-emissions fuel cell-powered heavy-duty truck, the GIGA FUEL CELL, to market in 2027.
In collaboration with General Motors, Honda has co-developed the new fuel cell system. This partnership is part of Honda's strategy to bolster the overall hydrogen ecosystem, including generation, workforce development, and after-sales maintenance and support.
Honda is also participating in the expansion of hydrogen station networks in Japan and supporting hydrogen station businesses in North America. The automaker is planning for demonstration testing of an energy ecosystem that combines renewable energy and hydrogen in Europe.
In addition, Honda has announced a similar joint project in Japan where it will establish a stationary fuel cell station to power a Mitsubishi data center. Honda is also working with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) regarding a 'circulative renewable energy system' for supplying electricity to maintain the functionality of lunar rovers.
Besides Honda, other automakers are also embracing hydrogen fuel cell technology. BMW, for instance, collaborates closely with Toyota on fuel cell technology and prepares its plants in Steyr, Landshut, and Dingolfing for production of hydrogen-related components and systems.
Honda is working towards its goal of zero environmental impact by 2050 through its 'Triple Action to Zero' approach, which includes carbon neutrality, resource circulation, and use of clean, renewable energy. The company's commitment to hydrogen technology is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
