What if our future cars could serve as backup generators for our home? It would actually be amazing if something like that was available right now as millions of people have suffered from days-long power outages in the East coast. Well, that reality is closer than you think because in a pilot program currently developed for Japan, Honda turned its FCX Clarity into a zero emission electric generator on wheels.
In the newest modified version of Honda’s fuel-cell electric vehicle, the automaker added a mobile box of power outlets near the back tire that lets the car function as a 9kW generator. On a full-tank of hydrogen, the 9 kilowatts generated enables the FCX Clarity to provide continuous electricity for more than seven hours.
As part of the program, Honda also built a new solar-powered hydrogen fueling station. The station uses water and solar panels to produce the hydrogen. In 24 hours, it can generate enough hydrogen to power the FCX Clarity for 90 miles. Because the station doesn’t use a mechanical compressor, the system is almost completely silent and highly energy efficient.
The system is being tested right now as an emergency power supply in areas that have been suffering constant power outages due to the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. As it stands right now, it seems like the system would work in emergency situations or to offset electric costs during peak use times (something we know too well in Austin).
Tags: fuel-cell technology, honda fcx clarity, Honda fuel-cell vehicle
