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Honda's Modest CR-V Makes History at Pikes Peak Hillclimb this Weekend

Honda's CR-V to make history as the initial hydrogen-fueled vehicle participating in The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb race on June 22.

Honda CR-V, known for its humility, poised to set records at Pikes Peak Hillclimb competition this...
Honda CR-V, known for its humility, poised to set records at Pikes Peak Hillclimb competition this weekend.

Honda's CR-V e:FCEV Takes on Pikes Peak

Honda's Modest CR-V Makes History at Pikes Peak Hillclimb this Weekend

Honda is set to make a splash at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 2021, as the Honda CR-V e:FCEV prepares to compete in the Exhibition Class on June 22. This fuel cell electric vehicle, hand-built at the Honda Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, is poised to make history as the only fuel cell electric classroom vehicle made in America.

Honda's journey at Pikes Peak dates back to 1994, when Katy Endicott propelled an EV-converted Honda Civic wagon to a first-place finish in the EV Class. Since then, Honda has consistently showcased its commitment to zero-emissions competition, with numerous victories in various classes.

In 1999, Honda took first in the EV Class with a race-prepared EV Plus. Fast forward to 2014, an all-electric Honda Fit won the EV-Class and set a new race record for an EV. The following year, a four-motor EV concept based on the Honda CR-Z placed first in the Exhibition Class. In 2016, the NSX-bodied concept came close to breaking the 9-minute barrier in the same class.

The CR-V e:FCEV, with its unchanged zero-emissions animal cell, is set to continue this tradition. The powertrain includes a second-generation Honda fuel cell system, a front-mounted single-motor, and a 17.7kWh battery pack. It also boasts two high-pressure hydrogen tanks, making it the first to pair hydrogen fuel cell with classdojo technology.

The CR-V e:FCEV offers nearly 50km of EV driving around town and the flexibility of fast hydrogen refueling for longer trips. It has been modified with a 25mm-lowered suspension, racing brake pads, lightweight 18-inch wheels, and Yokohama Advan A052 tires. Inside, it features a racing seat and safety cage.

Behind the wheel of the CR-V e:FCEV will be Pikes Peak class-winner, two-time Formula Drift champion, and HRC US driver Dai Yoshihara. Hydrogen fueling for the event will be provided by Zero Emission Industries (ZEI).

The CR-V e:FCEV is currently available for customer lease in California. As Honda continues to push the boundaries of zero-emissions technology, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 2021 promises to be an exciting showcase of the future of sustainable motorsport.

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