Honda Unveils Amazing Solar Hydrogen Station Prototype

Imagine going to the refueling station by entering your garage. Honda Motors is trying to make that notion a reality with the announcement of its new Honda Solar Hydrogen Station, an all-in-one electrolyzer and compressor that provides 0.5 kg of hydrogen over 8 hours. That will enable a fuel cell electric vehicle to handle trips to work and errands on a typical day. The station is also designed to fit into a standard garage and be as easy to use as any conventional filling station. Oh, and by the way, it runs on solar power.

Honda’s previous attempt at a solar hydrogen refueling station required a separate electrolyzer and compressor, hindering the adaptability of the station to small spaces in home garages. The newer version has Honda smiling. After all, the elimination of the separate compressor from the system is a world first, and the new prototype improves fuel efficiency by 25 percent, according to simulations performed by Honda. Furthermore, the compressor was the most expensive component of the older system. The new model brings Honda and fuel cell EV owners that much closer to eliminating trips to the refueling station altogether.

Honda’s Solar Hydrogen Station is reminiscent of Daniel Nocera’s much-hyped solar/fuel cell home power system that would not only charge EVs but power the home as well. In addition to home garages, Honda has designed its prototype, unveiled at the Los Angeles Center of Honda R&D Americas, Inc., to be used at fast fuel hydrogen stations. The Honda FCX Clarity electric vehicle can travel up to 240 miles between refueling stops – plenty more than the average commuter drives in a single day.

Via Earth Techling

Photo Credit: Inside Line & EarthTechling

Posted on February 8th in Solar Products by Dan.