Honda Electrified Technologies Explained

Electric vs. Hybrid vs. Fuel-Cell 

What is the difference between electric vs. hybrid vs. fuel-cell vehicles? Should you choose a Honda EV or hybrid – what’s the difference? We explore what sets them apart below. 

Honda Electrified Vehicles

Electrified vehicles are not only more efficient than gas-powered vehicles, but EVs also reduce or eliminate your driving emissions. They completely eliminate the need for gas, so regular trips to the Aurora gas station are a thing of the past. They can be charged on the go at public charging stations or at home with either a 120V option or a professionally-installed Level 2 charging station. 

Honda Hybrid Vehicles

A hybrid car combines at least one electric motor with a gasoline engine to propel the vehicle. A regenerative braking system helps to recapture some of the energy that was lost during braking. Electricity comes from a high-voltage battery pack, and the gas engine helps to charge and maintain the battery. Hybrid vehicles cannot drive on electricity alone, with the exception of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, which offer short electric-only ranges. 

Honda Fuel-Cell Vehicles

In 2008, Honda launched the FCX Clarity, which created electricity through a process that combined oxygen and hydrogen. The automaker announced that its next hydrogen-powered vehicle will be a plug-in version of the CR-V, which should arrive in North America and Japan in 2024. 

Fuel-cell vehicles are powered by compressed hydrogen gas that feeds into an onboard fuel cell stack. However, it does not burn the gas. It actually transforms the fuel’s chemical energy into electrical energy to power the car’s electric motors. Tailpipe emissions are zero. The only waste produced is pure water. 

Honda EV Batteries and Charging 

When it comes to Honda EV batteries and charging, you currently have three different options.

• Level 1 Charging: Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt, 3-prong outlet to power the vehicle. This is the easiest charging option, but it is also the slowest. On average, you can expect about five miles of range per hour of charging. 
• Level 2 Charging: Level 2 charging can be found at some public charging stations, but you can also have your own charging station installed professionally. With this method, you can expect approximately 25 miles of range per hour of charging. 
• Level 3 Charging: DC Fast Charging is the most rapid charging option, but because of the power it requires, it is only available at some public charging stations. You can expect anywhere from 100 to more than 200 miles of range in just 30 minutes of charging. 

Learn More About Fuel-Efficient Honda Models at Holman Honda Centennial

Honda EV or hybrid – what’s the difference? If you still have questions about your eco-friendly options from Honda, do not hesitate to reach out to the team at Holman Honda Centennial.