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| Honda (HMC) Introduces a Hydrogen Fueled Car |
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| Written by Miranda Marquit | |
| Monday, 16 June 2008 | |
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The Honda FCX Clarity is a hydrogen powered car that claims to have twice the efficiency of traditional gas and electric hybrid vehicles. And it doesn't emit greenhouse gases. Ever. No matter what mode it's in. (Although one could argue that the greenhouse gases involved in creating the electricity portion are an issue.) 
Photo: alyore, Creative Commons, Flickr Honda (HMC) is looking for a way to compete in an auto market that is increasingly focusing on green technology and decreasing dependence on rising gas prices. And with the Clarity, Honda may find itself back in the game (its own gas and electric hybrid attempts were creamed by the Toyota (TM) Prius). Right now, though, only a few people can test-lease the Clarity. This is because there aren't many hydrogen fueling stations around. Honda wants to make sure the Clarity's drivers have access to fuel, so the initial offering, here in the United States, is pretty much based in certain parts of California. But if investment in this grows, and if the Clarity finds success, it may be that Honda finds its green motor stock rising. Disclosure: I do not own HMC or TM. I'm thinking about buying a Prius. Site disclaimer. Alternative Energy 
Automobiles 
HMC 
Miranda Marquit 
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Comments
(4)
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written by Steven , June 17, 2008
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written by Miranda , June 17, 2008
You make very good points. I did briefly allude to the fact that the electricity used does emit greenhouse gases. And the cost-efficiency (I should have been clearer) refers to overall cost-efficiency -- dollar per energy input.
At any rate, the point is that Honda is trying to get back into the alternative energy game for cars, and the company is trying to do it be eschewing gasoline altogether. It remains to be seen how that will work out. But, I think that such cars are a great intermediary step toward the ultimate goal of shifting from fossil fuels to an energy economy based on renewables. I like the solar panel idea, and with technology increasing in this area, we could see rather efficient solar panels fairly soon, one would hope.
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written by Brandy , July 16, 2008
The problem with solar panels is that more greenhouse gases are emitted creating them than is saved by using them over traditional electricity. Every time others mention using solar panels with excitement and a smile, I wince, knowing that their production is so harmful.
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written by Miranda , July 18, 2008
Solar technology is becoming more efficient, with different materials and processes. And, once we get the technology to a better point, it will be possible to produce them with less harm to the environment. Ultimately, the idea is to find different alternatives that will be eventually sustainable.
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Furthermore the statement that it has "twice the efficiency.." is strange...twice the efficiency per gallon? per dollar of energy input? per measure of energy input? None of these measures are terribly interesting except the dollar comparison.
What would really be great is if the gas came with an option of solar panels for owner's houses or offices so that the hydrogen can be generated when the car isn't in use and it would then truly be carbon free.