68 MPG combined is the promise of near-silent, zero-emission motoring in the 2018 Honda Clarity FCV. That figure represents a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, a technology aimed squarely at early adopters and environmentally conscious drivers willing to accept a limited refueling infrastructure in exchange for cutting-edge technology and drastically reduced emissions. This isn’t your average commuter car; it’s a statement about priorities, a commitment to a different kind of future, and a bet that the hydrogen infrastructure will expand to meet the needs of these pioneering drivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA’s official numbers give a slight edge to city driving, with 69 MPG compared to 67 MPG on the highway. This reflects the Clarity FCV’s fuel cell technology, which is most efficient during stop-and-go driving where regenerative braking captures energy that would otherwise be lost. Highway driving at consistent speeds relies more on the fuel cell constantly generating electricity; however, the difference is small. What’s most telling is the consistency: whether you’re navigating urban streets or cruising down the interstate, the Clarity FCV delivers exceptional efficiency, Honda’s optimized fuel cell system provides this.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Honda Clarity FCV to be $772. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average price of hydrogen fuel at the time of testing. Remember that the actual cost can vary depending on where you live, how, and where you drive. For most Clarity FCV drivers, the low cost of hydrogen fuel is a key benefit that encourages them to stay behind the wheel of this zero-emissions vehicle and take advantage of everything it can deliver.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA’s numbers provide a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy can often vary. Several factors can influence the Clarity FCV’s performance, including driving style, weather conditions, and how efficiently hydrogen refueling stations are operating. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds will deplete the hydrogen tank faster, and extreme temperatures can also affect the fuel cell’s efficiency. However, for most drivers, achieving or even exceeding the EPA’s combined 68 MPG is entirely possible with mindful driving habits and proper maintenance.

Hydrogen refueling technology is still evolving, and station uptime and hydrogen pressure can impact the amount of fuel you receive.

How it compares

Compared to its direct competitors, the 2018 Honda Clarity FCV holds its own in the fuel-cell arena. The Toyota Mirai, another prominent fuel cell vehicle, achieves an EPA-estimated 67 MPG combined. The Hyundai Nexo also achieves around 61 combined MPG. These rivalries matter to the hydrogen fuel cell buyer, who is generally interested in maximizing efficiency and contributing to a cleaner environment. Unlike comparisons between traditional gasoline cars, which may focus on horsepower or features, fuel cell buyers are laser-focused on fuel economy and range. For more information, explore all Honda fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the best ways to maximize your efficiency is with smooth and consistent driving. Harsh acceleration and sudden braking waste fuel. Drive it like it’s an electric vehicle: accelerate gently, anticipate traffic flow, and allow the regenerative braking system to recover energy whenever possible. This will not only improve your fuel economy but also extend the life of your brakes.

Planning your routes around hydrogen refueling stations is essential. Unlike gasoline vehicles, hydrogen refueling infrastructure is still limited. Using navigation apps that provide real-time information about station availability and fuel price can help you avoid running low on hydrogen and optimize your refueling stops for cost and convenience. Also, remember that you can find CLARITY MPG across all years on our site.

Keep your tires properly inflated, as this reduces rolling resistance and improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended inflation pressure; you can find this information on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Ensuring your tires are properly inflated is a simple but effective way to conserve fuel and enhance safety.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying heavy cargo increases the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed, thus reducing the car’s efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area to lighten the load and improve fuel economy. This can noticeably affect your fuel consumption over time.

Take advantage of any efficiency-enhancing features the Clarity FCV offers. The vehicle likely includes driving modes that prioritize economy over performance. Selecting the “Econ” mode, if equipped, can optimize various vehicle systems, such as throttle response and climate control, to maximize fuel efficiency. This provides a simple, easy way to improve fuel economy immediately.