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Honda’s zero-emission fuel cell supercar
concept – the FC Sport design study model – has been revealed at the LA
Auto Show today. The
hydrogen-powered, three-seat sports car concept demonstrates the design
potential and flexibility of Honda’s fuel cell technology, already used
in the FCX Clarity, and offers a glimpse at how supercars of the future
may look.
The concept shows how Honda could
re-invent car design rules with its fuel cell powertrain that negates
the need for bulky car components like an internal combustion engine and
gearbox.
The FC Sport concept is a lightweight,
fuel cell sports car with zero-emissions and supercar performance levels
through a powerful electric motor and ultra-low centre of gravity.
Inspired by and built for people who love sports cars it explores how to
satisfy performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petrol and diesel
engines.
The FC Sport is designed to accommodate
a custom-formed high-power fuel cell stack, located between the rear
seats, and a battery pack placed low in the middle of the vehicle. The
electric motor sits just forward of the rear axle. Two fuel storage
tanks, visible from above, are located above the rear axle. The
location of the fuel cell components not only allows for enhanced
performance but also for a large cabin by conventional supercar
standards, with enough space for three people.
Green construction techniques further
contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. An organic, bio-structure
theme is carried through to the body construction where exterior panels
are intended to use plant-derived bio-plastics.
At present, the Honda FC Sport is a
design study model, and there are no plans for it to enter production.
Honda has no plans to replace the FCX Clarity – the world’s first fuel
cell production car already on sale in the US – but is exploring what
could happen in years to come. |
