Honda clarity how does it work

We easily beat the EPA's combined estimate, measuring 46 mpg on the highway in hybrid mode. For comparison, we've managed 49 mpg in a Prius Prime along this same route. During a mile test, we averaged 57 MPGe. The Clarity's cabin is inoffensive, relentlessly logical in operation, and utterly comfortable. We like it. While this is a big roomy car with well-shaped front seats that can accommodate large adults, the Clarity has a significantly shorter wheelbase than the Honda Accord.

That difference is apparent in the back seat, where there's nearly four inches less legroom. Trunk capacity is 16 cubic feet in the plug-in-hybrid model but 12 cubic feet in the fuel-cell car.

There are two USB ports: a 1. The Touring version of the Clarity plug-in hybrid has factory navigation, as does the fuel cell.

The fuel-cell model also has a speaker audio system while the plug-in makes do with an eight-speaker setup. Every Clarity comes with a suite of driver-assistance technologies , called Honda Sensing, along with the Honda LaneWatch system that displays a camera image of what's in your blind spot as soon as you flip on the turn signal.

Basically, a Hydrogen fuel cell car uses Hydrogen gas to start the chemical reaction that produces water. Compressed Hydrogen is stored in a tank in the car, and it is passed over a series of flat panels coated in a special metal that makes the hydrogen touching it bond with the oxygen in the air and create water. The fuel cell captures the energy produced by the chemical reaction that creates water and stores it in a battery that the car uses to drive. A big concern of many is the potential for dangerous explosions.

As the 17 kWh battery drains, the Clarity will automatically modulate use of the gasoline engine—a four-cylinder that boasts an industry-leading 40 percent thermal efficiency—based on the driving conditions.

The engine will supply electricity to the propulsion motor directly, via the second electric motor that functions as a generator, and may also drive the wheels directly at medium and highway speeds. This circumvents the efficiency losses that come any time the engine acts as a generator. Toggle over to Sport mode and the car favors acceleration over EV performance—via whatever combination of engine and battery is available.

In Econ mode, it dials back engine involvement as much as possible and limits acceleration to promote the most efficient electric driving. Sorry, no jackrabbit starts.

It works in conjunction with the other modes and generates the most benefit on highway drives. When decelerating, the propulsion motor acts as a generator to supply electricity to the battery when slowing down, via regenerative braking. Powertrain Overview What is a Plug-in Hybrid? Is the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid cleaner than gas-powered vehicles? The Clarity Plug-in Hybrid emits less greenhouse gas and uses less gasoline than conventional vehicles.

Getting electricity from renewable sources such as solar increases the benefit. The Clarity Plug-in Hybrid has various modes and technologies to maximize efficiency and range. There are three driving modes econ, sport and normal , and there is regenerative braking with the ability to adjust the regenerative capture on the fly with the deceleration selectors on the steering wheel.

The Clarity can also alternate between electric, hybrid, and direct gasoline engine drive depending on which is most efficient.

What size is the gasoline engine? The engine is a 1. How fast does the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid go? What is the benefit of instant torque? The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offers up all lb-ft of torque at just above zero rpm.

What kind of maintenance is required? Plug-in Hybrid vehicles can require less maintenance than gasoline only powered vehicles. How do I maximize range when driving the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid?

The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid features energy-smart climate-control technologies, an efficient heat pump, ECON mode and multiple levels of regeneration to help maximize your driving range. Are there any functions in the car to help maximize battery range? Additionally there are user controllable regeneration levels. What does 'MPGe' mean? Formulated by the Environmental Protection Agency EPA , it is the standardized way to compare the fuel efficiency of plug-in electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles to gasoline-powered vehicles.

EPA ratings, e. How long does it take to charge the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid? Level 1, volt charge takes about 12 hours for a full charge. A 30 amp Level 2, volt charger provides you with a full charge in about 2. Can you plug into any wall outlet at home? The Clarity Plug-in Hybrid includes a volt adaptor that can be plugged into a volt wall outlet.

It is recommended that a dedicated volt GFCI outlet not shared with a 15 amp circuit be used and that a licensed-electrician confirm the suitability of any outlet used. Can I charge at home without a Level 2 system? Yes, you can charge at home using the Level 1 charging cord that comes with your Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. How do I install the Level 2, volt charging system at home? How much does it cost to use a public station? Where can I charge the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid?

How do I find public charging stations near them?