Honda announces competitive fuel-cell CR-V lease prices with significant hydrogen incentive offer

Introduction Honda is set to launch a new fuel-cell version of its popular CR-V SUV, the 2025 CR-V e:FCEV. Sales will be limited to California, where customers will have the option to lease the vehicle. The CR-V e:FCEV boasts a 29-mile electric range before switching to fuel-cell power, offering a total driving range of 270 miles. While the vehicle is not expected to be a high-volume model, Honda is offering attractive lease options to California customers, including free hydrogen refills and access to Avis rental cars.

The CR-V e:FCEV Leasing Options
Customers in California will have the opportunity to lease the CR-V e:FCEV starting July 9 at select dealerships. Lease options include a 3-year lease with a monthly payment of $459 and $2,959 due at signing, with Honda covering $15,000 worth of hydrogen costs. Other lease options include a 6-year/72,000-mile lease at $389 per month with $2,889 due at signing, along with $30,000 in hydrogen credits. A 2-year/60,000-mile lease is also available, with a $489 monthly payment, $2,989 down payment, and $25,000 in free hydrogen. All leases come with up to 21 days of access to Avis rental cars and eligibility for single-occupant HOV lane access in California.

Performance and Features of the CR-V e:FCEV
The CR-V e:FCEV features a fuel-cell system developed in collaboration with General Motors, along with a 17.7-kWh battery pack that provides 29 miles of electric range. Once the battery is depleted, the hydrogen power source takes over, offering a total driving range of 270 miles. The vehicle delivers 174 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth driving experience that is similar to a battery-electric model.

Challenges and Infrastructure
Despite the promising features of the CR-V e:FCEV, the vehicle may face challenges due to the limited hydrogen infrastructure. While hydrogen was intended to offer a gasoline-like driving range and quick refueling, supply chain issues have caused concerns among early adopters. Honda acknowledges that the vehicle is not expected to be a high-volume model, with production limited to just 300 units initially.

Production and Future Plans
The CR-V e:FCEV is manufactured at Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, at a low rate of one vehicle every 20 days. Annual production is expected to reach 300 units initially, with plans to eventually increase production to 600 units per year. Honda and GM are also exploring other applications for hydrogen technology, including commercial trucks.

Conclusion
Overall, the 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV offers an innovative fuel-cell solution for customers in California, with attractive leasing options and impressive performance features. While the vehicle may face challenges due to the limited hydrogen infrastructure, Honda remains committed to exploring the potential of hydrogen technology for future applications. Customers in California will have the opportunity to experience the cutting-edge CR-V e:FCEV starting next month, setting the stage for a new era of fuel-cell vehicles in the automotive industry.

Share This Article