Honda’s zero-emission fuel cell supercar concept – the FC Sport design study model – has been revealed at the LA Auto Show.
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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 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.
“This stunning concept is a great example of how the development of fuel cells could revolutionise car design,” said John Kingston, Government Affairs and Environment Manager, Honda (UK).
“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.”
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.
The interior layout focuses on the driver with a racecar-like centre driving position. The enclosed canopy opens upward from the rear to allow for entry and exit. Two rear passenger seats flank the driver’s seat.
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.
The FC Sport concept was developed at the Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas, in Pasadena, California.
