Among alternative-fuel vehicles, hybrids and EVs receive most of the attention. But there are other alternatives, such as hydrogen fuel-cell technology. One such fuel-cell vehicle (FCV) is the 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell. The first Clarity was introduced in 2008 and was replaced with the second-generation model for the 2017 model year. That redesign carries over to the 2021 model year 

Features like a “proton-exchange membrane fuel cell” sound pretty complex, but the system is straightforward. The Clarity is an electric vehicle, but it gets electricity from fuel cells, rather than batteries. Those fuel cells are powered by hydrogen, which is stored in a tank designed to withstand a collision. This setup produces 174 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The electric motor routes power to the front wheels. 

For alt-fuel vehicles, the EPA provides ratings based on miles per gallon equivalent, or MPGe. The Clarity FCV returns an estimated 68 MPGe city, 67 MPGe highway, and 68 MPGe combined. It has a 360-mile range, all of which is emissions-free. Due to the state’s hydrogen infrastructure, the Clarity Fuel Cell is currently sold only in California, which has over 40 stations. The Clarity also qualifies for the state’s $4,500 clean-car rebate. 

The Clarity Fuel Cell comes well-equipped with standard features such as dual-zone climate control with remote climate pre-conditioning, push-button start, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and one-touch power windows. It also comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Clarity has seating for five, but the rear bench does not fold down. Behind the rear seat, it provides 11.8 cubic feet of cargo space.

The Clarity comes with the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features. This includes forward automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Other standard features include a tire pressure monitoring system, a standard head-up display (HUD), and the helpful Honda LaneWatch blind-spot camera system.

The 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is $58,490 in its lone trim. Those looking to lease the Clarity also receive $15,000 worth of hydrogen fuel over the duration of the lease.