Honda Unveils Fuel-Cell Power Vehicle, Slated for 2016 Release in North America

This year's Detroit Auto Show saw the unveiling of Honda's next-generation hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle, marking the car's debut in North America and a shift in innovation for the Japanese automaker.

The electric sedan, called the FCV (fuel cell vehicle) Concept, is designed with more compact and efficient fuel-cell technology and has a 33 percent smaller hydrogen fuel stack than the FCX Clarity, according to CNET.

The fuel stack fits in the hood of the FCV so that there is enough space elsewhere in the car. Another update from the FCX Clarity is a 60 increase in power density.

Having made its debut in Japan in November 2013, the vehicle comes with a futuristic concept, which will most likely change when the production model is launched, Digital Trends reported. However, the roomy interior is expected to stay.

The FCV can also refill its hydrogen fuel cell at 10,000 pounds per square inch in about three minutes, and it comes with a 300-mile driving range, the Detroit Free Press reported. The cabin in the car is able to seat five people.

Fuel cell tech wasn't the Japanese company's focus at the auto show, as it also revealed that it is working on all-new battery electric car and an all-new plug-hybrid car, both of which it plans to release by 2018. Honda added that it will begin building its new 4-cylinder VTEC turbo engines at its Anna, Ohio plant for a North American-release in 2015.

This year will also see the release of the company's second-generation Acura NSX, which drivers will be able to order starting this summer, Digital Trends reported.

Drivers in the U.S. will have to wait a little longer to start driving the Honda FCV, as the company plans on making the hydrogen-powered car available in North America in 2016.

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