Hydrogen-Powered Honda CR‑V Makes History at Pikes Peak

Honda enters the 2025 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 22 with the CR‑V e:FCEV, marking the event’s first hydrogen-powered vehicle. The 12.42-mile course includes 156 turns and climbs to an elevation of 14,115 feet. Developed by HRC US, HART, Honda Japan, and PMC, the CR‑V e:FCEV retains its stock fuel-cell powertrain and receives targeted performance upgrades.

Powertrain & Performance

174 hp electric motor delivering 229 lb-ft of torque
4.3 kg hydrogen capacity stored in dual high-pressure tanks
17.7 kWh lithium-ion battery with 29 miles of EV-only range
Total EPA range: 270 miles (241 hydrogen + 29 electric)
Hydrogen refuel time: 3–5 minutes
Fuel-cell module: 92.2 kW, operates from -22°F to 212°F

Built at Honda's Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, this is the only fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) manufactured in the U.S.

Race Modifications

1-inch lowered suspension with sport springs and dampers
Upgraded racing brake pads and rotors
18-inch lightweight wheels with 265/45R18 Yokohama Advan A052 tires
Custom roll cage and racing seat from HART and PMC

No changes were made to the zero-emission powertrain, keeping the vehicle compliant and representative of production-spec technology.

Driver Profile: Dai Yoshihara

Two-time Formula Drift champion
2020 Pikes Peak Unlimited class winner
Runner-up in 2022 Pikes Peak Exhibition class
2023 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge participant with Civic Type R TCR

Yoshihara aims to secure a podium finish in his third Pikes Peak appearance.

Honda's Zero-Emission Pikes Peak History

1994: EV Civic wagon class win
1999: EV Plus earned first place
2014: Fit EV completed in 12:55.6
2015: CR‑Z with four-motor AWD achieved 10:23.8
2016: NSX EV concept finished in 9:09.06

The Honda CR‑V e:FCEV continues Honda’s legacy of innovation in zero-emission racing.

Daily Use & Availability

Available by lease in California only
Estimated MSRP: $50,000
Includes up to $15,000 in hydrogen fuel credits over three years
Qualifies for California HOV lane access
HondaLink EV app includes station locator and fuel monitoring
Built-in 1,500 W power outlet for V2L and emergency backup

Interior, Technology & Features

LED headlights and clear-lens LED taillights
Gloss-black 18-inch alloy wheels
Bio-synthetic leather seating surfaces
10.2-inch driver display and infotainment system
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Honda Sensing safety suite and multi-angle rearview camera

Chassis and Handling

The Honda CR‑V e:FCEV chassis is 9–10% stiffer than the hybrid Honda CR‑V. Suspension tuning accounts for the added mass of the battery and fuel-cell system, while maintaining Honda’s trademark ride quality and steering feedback.

Significance of the Pikes Peak Entry

Demonstrates hydrogen fuel viability under racing conditions
Reduces range concerns with hybrid hydrogen-electric format
Validates Honda's progress toward carbon neutrality by 2040
Brings motorsport exposure to fuel-cell technology

Key Specifications

Feature	Specification
Electric Motor Output	174 hp @ 4,006–6,750 rpm
Torque	229 lb-ft @ 90–4,006 rpm
Battery	17.7 kWh lithium-ion
Fuel Cell Power	92.2 kW PEMFC
Hydrogen Capacity	4.3 kg
Zero-Emission Range	270 miles (EPA)
EV-only Range	29 miles
Refueling Time	3–5 minutes
Curb Weight	≈4,460 lb

Race Outlook

The Honda CR‑V e:FCEV competes in the Exhibition class. Though not optimized for outright speed, it showcases hydrogen’s responsiveness, real-world reliability, and strategic value. If Dai Yoshihara secures a top finish, it could redefine expectations for zero-emission racing.

Image gallery:

Conclusion

The Honda CR‑V e:FCEV combines daily driving practicality with motorsport-worthy engineering. Its presence at Pikes Peak serves as a public demonstration of hydrogen fuel-cell viability. On June 22, the climb will test more than performance—it will measure public confidence in the next era of zero-emission vehicles.