The Honda CR-V is a popular compact SUV. It’s widely available with a gas powertrain and a hybrid powertrain, but did you know there is also a hydrogen fuel cell electric version of the CR-V? This family-friendly crossover SUV is about to do something extreme. Honda is sending it to tackle the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
The Race to the Clouds
So, what is Pikes Peak? It is a 14,115-foot mountain in Colorado. The annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is one of the oldest motorsports events in the United States, second only to the Indianapolis 500. It all gets started on June 22.
It takes place on Pikes Peak Highway, a public road that winds and climbs for over 12 miles up to the summit. It has 156 turns and climbs 4,720 feet from the start line to the end of the race at the summit.
The Honda CR-V Will Take on Pikes Peak
The Honda CR-V e:FCEV will be the first hydrogen-powered vehicle to make an appearance in the race. It’s being prepared for the race by the Honda Racing Corporation and the Honda of America Race Team.
There will be only a few modifications made to the CR-V before it hits the starting line, and most of them are focused on safety and performance. The stock vehicle, which is the only fuel cell electric vehicle made in America, will have a lowered suspension, lighter-weight 18-inch wheels, and upgraded tires. Another change is the upgrade to racing brake pads, and a safety cage will be installed for the driver.
How Much Power Does the Honda CR-V Fuel Cell Have?
Since this is a race, we need to talk about power. The CR-V Fuel Cell received a new powertrain for the 2025 model year. It’s made up of a single motor that churns out 174 horsepower. Two hydrogen tanks sit under the car by the rear seats. This version of the CR-V will zip from zero to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds.
Since hydrogen fuel stations are not on every corner, there’s also a battery pack on board to provide some extra driving range if you need it in order to get to a hydrogen refueling station.
Zero Emissions Is a Big Deal for this Race
One of the big things about the CR-V fuel cell is that it will produce zero emissions during the race. But how will it refuel on the go without a hydrogen refueling station along the way? This is where Zero Emissions Industries comes in. They have a new portable refueling case that will transform gaseous hydrogen into a fueling station.
If this is the future of hydrogen power, it can mean that any driver can refuel their vehicle safely from almost anywhere.
If you want to see how the Honda CR-V stacks up against the competition on this legendary hill climb, you can watch the event live on the Pikes Peak Hill Climb website.
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