2011 Honda FCX Clarity

The Honda FCX Clarity is essentially rolling proof that Honda's hydrogen fuel cell technology can work in the real world -- albeit under considerable constraints.

The powertrain of this front-wheel drive sedan consists of a hydrogen storage tank, fuel cell, electric motor, and storage battery. The fuel cell produces electricity through a reaction of hydrogen and oxygen, which is then used to power the motor that drives the wheels. A battery stores any excess power -- either from the fuel cell or recovery systems like the regenerative brakes. As with pure electric vehicles, the point is to achieve a usable driving range with no tailpipe emissions. Clarity manages a combined average fuel economy of 73 mpg and a city driving range of approximately 270 miles, with only water vapor emissions as a result.

Sound too good to be true? In some ways it is. Clarity is only available for lease (at $600 a month for a 3-year lease) in southern California. This is because it needs to be serviced at Honda HQ in Torrance and fueled at special hydrogen stations in the area.

Bodystyle: SedanEngines: 100 kW/134-hp AC electric motorTransmissions: 1-speed automatic Models: FCX Clarity

A low volume, technological tour de force like the Clarity isn't subject to the same update cycle as the Civic or Accord and heads into 2011 with no changes.

Easily the most beautiful vehicle in Honda's lineup, Clarity has a slick, swooping Kamm-back profile and special wheels to maximize aerodynamic efficiency. The aluminum intensive body comes in only one color, the deep garnet shown.

Clarity's cabin is as spacious as it is spacey, with high-tech controls and gauges. There is ample room for four adults on seats covered with specially designed plant based bio fabric -- an industry first.

Driving dynamics rival everyday hybrids like Prius. Sophisticated suspension design and light curb weight provide for solid handling behavior. Acceleration isn't impressive, but it is eerily quiet -- as there are no gases combusting or gears shifting. Top speed is a believable 100 mph. Fuel economy numbers and 270 mile range are all the more impressive considering Clarity's zero emissions vehicle status.

No special safety equipment comes with Clarity. Front and front side airbags are standard as well as stability control, side curtain airbags, all braking aids (ABS, EBD, and BA) and collision mitigation braking system (CMBS).

NOT RATED

• Elegant styling
• Futuristic technology
• Zero emission motoring
• Exclusive availability

• Extremely limited lease terms
• Only available in southern California

Exclusive, impressive proof of concept

• BMW ActiveHybrid 7
• Chevy Volt
• Nissan Leaf
• Tesla Roadster