Honda reveals next-gen hydrogen fuel cell module – 50% lower production cost than previous model

At the recent H2 & FC Expo event in Japan, Honda revealed preliminary specifications of its next-generation hydrogen fuel cell module, which it aims to begin mass producing in 2027.

According to Honda, development of the new hydrogen fuel cell module is being done completely in-house, unlike the current model that was jointly developed with General Motors (GM) and is currently in use in the CR-V e:FCEV.

In terms of specifications, Honda claims its fuel cell module has a maximum output of 150 kW and peak efficiency of 59.8%. It also has a high voltage output range of between 450V and 850V, with the low voltage power supply being capped at 24V. The unit itself measures 730 mm wide, 700 mm and has a depth of 580 mm.

With these figures, Honda claims volumetric power density (0.50 kW/L) has gone up by more than three times, which allows for more flexibility when it comes to packaging. It adds that the new module features half of the production cost and more than double the durability compared to the current model.

In addition to a fuel cell module, the company also revealed a fuel cell power generator that it plans to begin producing in 2026. This serves as a backup power generator that uses the fuel cell found in the CR-V e:FCEV to supply hydrogen-derived, clean electricity to large facilities such as factories and offices in the event of an emergency.

Through the optimisation of the design of the cooling system and internal layout, Honda says the fuel cell power generator will be compact in size. Up to four units, each with an output of 250 kW, can be connected in series to provide a total capacity of 1,000 kW. The rated AC voltage is between 200V and 480V using a three-phase, four-wire system, and to ensure high responsiveness, the unit can begin supplying power within 10 seconds of startup.

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