Tokyo 2015: All-New Honda FCV Set To Make Debut Looking Near Production-Ready

With the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show set to open its doors in late October, Honda has revealed its lineup of exhibits, which include production and concept vehicles, as well as other highlights.

Chief among which is the all-new Honda FCV you see here. Tentatively named for now, the sedan features a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain featuring at least two high-output motors. which the Japanese carmaker says provides a cruising range exceeding 700km (following the Japanese JC08 cycle). If needed, the powertrain can function as a “mobile power plant” when connected to an external power feeding inverter, generating and providing electricity to the community in the case of an emergency. Feeling a bit of déjà vu? That’s because the Toyota Mirai features the same capability as well.

On the looks department, the all-new FCV looks close to production ready (note the windscreen wipers) and seems to retain much of the design cues from the FCV Concept that debuted at this year’s Detroit Auto Show. This includes the fastback-like design (now less angular) with rear fender skirts, along with the wheel design.

Understandably, certain elements will have to be changed as it nears production-ready status. Hence, the front-end is reworked with the deep corner cuts on the bumper leading into the hood now accommodating what appears to be LED daytime running lights. The top portion of the grille still features a chrome bar running across but now makes a slight detour going beneath the prominently displayed Honda logo. The same chrome bit also appears to extend into the headlights as well. Elsewhere, a lower grille now exists where the concept lacked it.

Minor changes detailed include side gills which are less stylish than the concept’s, larger side mirrors featuring Honda’s LaneWatch blind-spot alert technology, and a roof-mounted fin antenna. Interestingly, the side intakes in front of the rear wheels are retained as well, although less pronounced this time round.

Inside, the “close to production-ready” feel continues. The steering wheel is as that found in recent Honda models although from then on, it’s a mixture of modern design elements. The centre console is a main highlight here, playing host to the gear selector, electronic parking brake, and possibly selectable drive modes. Edge upwards and you’ll find the climate control system followed by the large touchscreen multimedia unit and angular air-conditioning vents above them. On to other parts of the cabin, the door panels and centre console feature a wood-like material, tweeters located on the A-pillar, and a modern instrument cluster with a heads-up display.

Although its name hasn’t been finalised, the Honda FCV looks as close to production-ready as it’ll ever be, and we won’t be surprised if Honda decides to debut the hydrogen-powered car globally in Tokyo. Previously, its predecessors – the FCX Clarity was available as a leasing option in limited locations.

With the all-new FCV being available to the public, it gives Honda a strong answer to the Toyota Mirai