The 2017 Honda Clarity Electric achieves 114 MPGe combined, making it a good choice for drivers wanting zero-emission driving without worrying about range. Honda is committed to affordable electric transportation, appealing to buyers who prioritize lower fuel costs, commute shorter distances, and value Honda’s reliability.

City and highway performance

The Clarity Electric performs well in cities, achieving 126 MPGe in city driving. This shows how efficient electric motors are in stop-and-go traffic, where regenerative braking captures energy. On the highway, the Clarity EV achieves 103 MPGe. This is expected because aerodynamic drag increases at higher speeds, which is a challenge for all electric vehicles. These figures suggest this vehicle is best for daily commutes and city errands. The Clarity Electric isn’t ideal for frequent long road trips, and it’s acceptable for its target customer.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Honda Clarity Electric at $700. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average electricity price when calculated. Your actual charging costs will vary depending on your electricity rate, driving habits, and whether you charge at home or at public charging stations. Drivers who mostly charge during off-peak hours can likely reduce this annual expense significantly. Owners of the Clarity EV avoid the ups and downs of gasoline prices and embrace a more sustainable and predictable energy source.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures provide a standard, but real-world MPGe can change. Quick acceleration, extreme temperatures, and heavy loads will affect range and efficiency. Some Clarity EV owners report that driving the speed limit and maximizing regenerative braking can exceed the EPA estimates, especially during warmer months. However, using the climate control system at full power during very hot or cold weather will reduce range. Adapting driving style optimizes efficiency, adding to the vehicle’s value.

How it compares

The 2017 Honda Clarity Electric competed well against other electric vehicles of its time. For example, the 2017 Nissan LEAF SL gets around 112 MPGe combined, and the BMW i3 REx (with its range extender) gets about 111 MPGe. The Chevrolet Bolt, a strong competitor, gets around 119 MPGe combined, slightly better than the Clarity EV. There are differences in range, features, and driving, but these MPGe numbers show the Clarity EV was competitive in the electric vehicle market, appealing to buyers who want Honda’s reliability and design over maximum range or MPGe. Remember to check all Honda fuel economy data

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Use regenerative braking. The Clarity Electric has adjustable regenerative braking settings using paddles on the steering wheel. Use these to control how quickly the car slows down, capturing energy and reducing wear on the brakes. Mastering one-pedal driving, where possible, can improve efficiency and driving range.

Precondition the cabin while plugged in. Heating or cooling the inside of the Clarity Electric while still connected to the charger takes power from the grid instead of the battery. This saves range, especially on cold mornings. Use the car’s climate control timer to pre-heat or cool the cabin before you leave. Look at CLARITY MPG across all years to compare this model to others.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, hurting fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended levels on the doorjamb sticker. Use a low-rolling-resistance tire made for electric vehicles to reduce energy use.

Drive smoothly and don’t accelerate too fast. Electric motors provide torque instantly, but don’t floor it every time. Accelerating gently and keeping a steady speed improves efficiency. Watch traffic and avoid braking unnecessarily by looking ahead.

Use ECON mode. The Clarity Electric has an ECON mode that changes how the accelerator responds and adjusts the climate control to save energy. The car may feel a little slower, but it can increase range, especially when driving in the city. Try ECON mode to see if it works with your driving and routes.