Honda unveils advanced Hydrogen Fuel Cell System at Brussles Expo 2023

Honda presents a vision of working with business and technological partners to broaden applications of the fuel cell system.

Bracknell, United Kingdom- Honda Motor Europe Ltd., is demonstrating an advanced prototype of its Hydrogen Fuel Cell System Module, developed in collaboration with General Motors, at the 2023 European Hydrogen Week. This is part of an ongoing effort to attain carbon neutrality for all global operations by 2050.

The small but mighty system, on show at the Brussels Expo from November 20–24, is made to provide outstanding robustness and adaptability in a range of applications, such as stationary power plants, commercial vehicles, construction equipment, and fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs). Honda invites all possible collaboration partners to stop by booth I90 in Hall 7 of the Hydrogen Week Expo. Honda presents a vision of working with business and technological partners to broaden applications of the fuel cell system.

Mr. Ingo Nyhues, Deputy General Manager, Europe Business Planning & Development, Honda Motor Europe, said that, After over 30 years in hydrogen fuel cell development, we anticipate a surge in demand for our next-gen system. Compact, powerful, and durable, it meets diverse industry needs for rapid zero-emission transitions. Our expertise positions us to contribute to Europe's net-zero goals.

Leveraging hydrogen's unique traits, our fuel cell system excels in powering heavily used large-size mobility products, large-scale infrastructure, and quick-refueling mobility items challenging for batteries. Honda focuses on four core domains across transportation and industry for its versatile fuel cell system.

FCEVs and commercial vehicles
Honda is set to launch the all-new CR-V FCEV model in North America and Japan by 2024. Additionally, the company will make substantial investments in developing clean, low-noise, and low-vibration fuel cell solutions for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. This initiative addresses the urgent demand in the global haulage, freight, and logistics sectors for sustainable powertrain technologies suitable for long-distance transportation of heavy cargo.

Isuzu Motors has chosen Honda Motor as its fuel cell system development and supply partner for launching heavy-duty trucks. They plan to conduct prototype testing on public roads by March 31, 2024, and aim to release a production model in 2027, utilizing the technology and knowledge gained from their joint research. 

Honda plans to apply its fuel cell technology to stationary power stations to meet the increasing power demands of data centers and provide clean and quiet backup power. The company also aims to collaborate with the construction industry to develop hydrogen solutions for construction machinery, starting with excavators and wheel loaders. With over 30 years of hydrogen research, Honda has a legacy of FCEV development, including the Honda FCX and Clarity series. Beyond products, Honda R&D Europe has established a green hydrogen production facility in Germany for energy management, using surplus solar energy for electrolysis.