Honda Launches America’s First Hydrogen FCEV
America’s first hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, the 2025 CR-V e:FCEV, will be made by Honda and they recently celebrated the begin of production in Ohio.
The vehicle has be lauded for the great driving experience it will provide with zero emissions. A collaboration between Honda and General Motors has been pivotal to Honda’s progress with hydrogen-powered vehicles.
The company also shared that the production of their first FCEV is a part of their commitment to an environmentally friendly future for their products.
Honda celebrated the start of production for the 2025 CR-V e, the first hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) produced in the United States, at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Ohio.
This vehicle represents a significant milestone as the only FCEV made in America, integrating a U.S.-manufactured fuel cell system with plug-in electric vehicle (EV) charging capabilities.
CR-V e:FCEV: Pioneering U.S. Production
The CR-V e boasts a 270-mile Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) driving range. It offers up to 29 miles of EV driving on a full charge while allowing fast hydrogen refuelling for longer journeys. This compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) provides a dynamic driving experience with zero emissions.
PMC’s production technicians have adapted to new processes required for manufacturing the CR-V e. This includes handling new components specific to fuel cell systems and plug-in EV batteries.
Key initiatives include assembling and installing hydrogen tanks, high-pressure piping, and the under-floor battery.
The facility also underwent significant modifications to its welding and paint systems to accommodate the new vehicle’s design.
Transitioning from the Acura NSX’s aluminum spaceframe to the CR-V e multi-material unibody construction required new welding robots and manual MIG welding for precision.
The larger, all-steel body of the CR-V e necessitated changes to the corrosion protection application process, including a redesigned E-coat dip tank and more robust equipment for applying sealer.
Supporting Honda’s Broader Electrification Strategy
The CR-V e is part of Honda’s larger strategy to develop a comprehensive electrified product line-up. This includes the establishment of the Honda EV Hub in Ohio, which will support the production of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and foster expertise in EV manufacturing.
Honda’s collaboration with General Motors (GM) has been crucial in developing the next-generation fuel cell system, which offers improved efficiency, durability, and reduced costs.
Honda envisions that battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles will comprise 100% of its new vehicle sales by 2040. The company is investing significantly in its manufacturing capabilities in North America, including a recent USD$11 billion investment in Canada to bolster its EV supply chain.
Driving Experience and Commitment to U.S. Manufacturing
The CR-V e offers a customizable driving experience with selectable drive modes, including EV and Sport modes. Refueling with hydrogen is comparable in time to filling a gasoline tank, and recharging the vehicle takes just 1.8 hours with a level 2 charger, adding up to 29 miles of range.
Additionally, the Honda Power Supply Connector enables the CR-V e to power small home appliances, power tools, or camping equipment, and charge the new Honda Motocompacto e-scooter, enhancing its versatility.
Honda has been manufacturing in America for over 40 years, with a significant presence across 12 manufacturing plants. The company has invested $19 billion in U.S. operations, with recent investments focusing on expanding its electrified vehicle production capabilities.
The production of the CR-V e marks a pivotal step in Honda’s journey toward an electrified future, reflecting its dedication to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry.
Byline: Steve O’Connor
