Honda has not given up on hydrogen fuel cell vehicles just yet. The Japanese automaker recently announced the 2025 CR-V e:FCEV, a new hydrogen-powered SUV with a range of 270 miles. With continued investments in fuel cell technology and collaborations with industry partners, Honda aims to make zero-emissions vehicles more viable in the coming years.

The CR-V e:FCEV represents Honda’s latest effort to produce mass-market fuel cell electric cars. The compact crossover features a 92.2kW fuel cell power unit developed jointly with General Motors. Capable of 174 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, it also incorporates a 17.7kWh rechargeable battery pack, which stores energy from regenerative braking to provide an additional 29 miles of all-electric driving.

On a full tank of compressed hydrogen gas, the CR-V e:FCEV promises to travel up to 270 miles between refuelings. That’s a similar range to the gas-powered CR-V. Owners will be able to recharge the battery from home outlets or public DC fast charging stations. The vehicle even provides 1.5kW of bidirectional charging to power external devices.

The focus on connectivity and upscale amenities reveals Honda’s intention to make the hydrogen SUV appealing to everyday drivers. The Touring model comes fully loaded with a 10.2-inch digital gauge display, a 9-inch HD touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration, a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, and perforated leather seating surfaces.

Initially available only for lease in California, the 2025 CR-V e:FCEV represents a calculated step to assess market demand for hydrogen passenger vehicles. While critics remain skeptical of fuel cell’s viability compared to fast-improving battery-electric cars, Honda and GM envision hydrogen playing a major role in achieving carbon-neutral transportation in the coming decades.