The Japanese automaker recently said it will unveil a concept version of the alternative powertrain vehicle, which is expected to launch in the U.S and Japan in 2015 and later in Europe.
DETROIT, MI- At the 2013 LA Auto Show, Honda Motor Co. will give a look into what its next-generation fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) may look like.
The Japanese automaker recently said it will unveil a concept version of the alternative powertrain vehicle, which is expected to launch in the U.S and Japan in 2015 and later in Europe.
"The Honda FCEV Concept demonstrates the company's vision for the future of personal mobility and our commitment to developing advanced alternative fuel vehicles," said Mike Accavitti, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co. Inc. in a statement.
Honda released an artistic rendering of the vehicle (below) that "hints at futuristic and aerodynamic design of next-generation fuel-cell electric vehicle."
Fuel cell vehicles are powered by electricity generated from hydrogen and oxygen. FCEVs emit only water while driving and are considered complementary to today’s battery-electric vehicles. The vehicles can operate on renewable hydrogen made from sources like wind and biomass.
Honda FCEV Concept sketch hints at futuristic and aerodynamic design of next-generation fuel-cell electric vehicle launching in 2015Fuel cell-powered vehicles, like numerous other alternative propulsion systems, face a litany of challenges – from infrastructure and acceptance to technology and pricing.
The concept vehicle comes months after Honda announced a“historic partnership” with General Motors Co. to develop next-generation fuel cell technologies.
Honda also said it will announce further upgrades to the 2014 Civic, the best-selling compact car in the U.S. The ninth-generation Civic was launched in North America in April 2011 as a 2012 model-year, but heavily revamped the vehicle after one year due to strong competition and lackluster reviews.
Further details about the Honda FCEV Concept and the enhanced 2014 Civic, America's best-selling compact car, will be revealed at 4:35 p.m. ET Nov. 20 at the LA Auto Show.
Nearly 60 vehicles, including 22 world debuts, are expected to be unveiled during the 2013 LA Auto Show Press Days from Nov. 20-21. The LA Auto Show, which is considered the start of the “auto show season” for automakers, is open to the public from Nov. 22–Dec. 1.
Follow all of MLive’s 2013 LA Auto Show coverage by clicking here.
Michael Wayland covers the automotive industry for MLive. Email him at MWayland@mlive.com & follow him on Twitter @MikeWayland or Google+.