Whoever thinks green cars can’t be cool, clearly hasn’t read Honda’s script. The Japanese manufacturer, which has already brought fuel cell technology to the forefront with its Honda FCX Clarity model, has now introduced a zero-emission fuel cell supercar concept.
Making its debut at the LA Auto Show, the FC Sport design is a hydrogen-powered, three-seat sports car concept that offers a glimpse of how the sports cars of the future may look. Honda even believes that the concept could reinvent car design rules with a fuel cell powertrain that eliminates the need for an internal combustion engine and a gearbox.
Speaking about the vehicle, Honda UK’s Government Affairs and Environment Manager John Kingston could not hide his enthusiasm.
“This stunning concept is a great example of how the development of fuel cells could revolutionise car design,” he said.
“The FC Stack is smaller than your average powerplant and without the restrictions of having to accommodate a big engine and transmission designers are free to explore much more radical styling directions to reflect the performance of the car.”
Appearing in a Glacier white shell, as if to hallmark its environmentally-friendly credentials, the high-powered Honda fuel cell powertrain combined with a sleek, aerodynamic body contribute to tremendous performance. The interior layout meanwhile focuses on putting the driver in a race-car like centre driving position with an enclosed canopy that opens upwards from the rear to allow for entry and exit.
Many steps have been taken to reduce the car’s carbon footprint including an organic, bio-structure theme where exterior panels are intended to use plant-derived bio-plastics.
At present, the model is a design study only and there are no plans for it to enter production.
