March 2004

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TORRANCE, CA - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reports a successful cold-weather test and demonstration of its FCX hybrid fuel cell vehicle and Honda fuel cell stack in the cold northern island of Hokkaido.

The tests on the company's test track and on public roads included parking the car overnight in temperatures as low as minus 11deg. C (12 deg. F), starting it successfully afterwards and driving it with no apparent problems.

"This is a tremendous breakthrough for Honda," said Ben Knight, vice president of Honda R&D Americas.

Honda plans to make this stack commercially available within the next year. The company says it is the world's first fuel cell stack to feature below-freezing start capabilities and the first to use a stamped metal separator structure as well as newly developed electrolyte membranes. Unlike conventional stacks in which carbon separators are fastened together with bolts, Honda's stack is simplified, consisting of stamped metal separators with rubber seals that are attached in a unique molding process and enclosed by panels, says Honda's release.

The new stack has almost 50% fewer components compared to earlier Honda prototype stacks, but more than doubles output. The newly developed aromatic membranes offer greater durability and generate power at temperatures from minus 20 deg. C (-4 deg F) to 95 deg. C (203 deg. F), a milestone according to Honda.

The two Honda stacks in the FCX produce 86 kW for the 80 kW synchronous electric motor, giving a top speed of 93 mph. A Honda-built ultracapacitor provides extra power. The 5000 psi tank stores 156 liters of hydrogen, giving an estimated range of more than 180 miles, the company says. Contact: Honda Media, Andy Boyd, 310/783-3163.