114 MPG combined is the headline figure for the 2018 Honda Clarity Electric, an impressive number that underscores the vehicle’s singular mission: providing zero-emissions motoring for everyday commuters. Forget long road trips; the Clarity EV is designed for those prioritizing a clean conscience and low running costs above all else. Its buyers care less about traditional automotive metrics like horsepower and towing capacity, and more about factors like charging time and access to HOV lanes. This is a car engineered for a specific purpose and a specific kind of driver, and it excels within those parameters.

City and highway performance

The Clarity Electric’s EPA ratings break down to 126 MPG in the city and 103 MPG on the highway. These numbers highlight the inherent efficiency of electric motors in stop-and-go traffic, where regenerative braking captures energy that would otherwise be lost. The city rating is notably higher, demonstrating the car’s sweet spot: urban environments. Highway driving, with its sustained speeds and reduced opportunities for regeneration, naturally results in lower efficiency. Even the highway rating remains exceptional compared to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Honda Clarity Electric at exactly $650. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and factoring in the national average electricity prices. It’s a significant savings compared to most gasoline cars, where annual fuel costs easily exceed $2,000. While individual electricity rates vary, the Clarity EV almost always equates to substantially lower running costs compared to even the most efficient hybrids. Drivers who use off-peak charging rates can potentially reduce this cost even further.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy depends on various factors, including driving style, weather conditions, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will deplete the battery more quickly. Extreme temperatures can impact battery performance, reducing range and efficiency. Even under less-than-ideal conditions, drivers can typically expect to achieve figures reasonably close to the EPA estimates. The car’s onboard energy monitor provides real-time feedback on power consumption and regeneration, allowing drivers to adapt their driving habits to maximize efficiency. Remember that regular use of climate control features, especially heating, can noticeably impact the achievable range, particularly in colder climates.

How it compares

Compared to other electric vehicles of its time, the 2018 Clarity EV offered a good combination of efficiency and value. The Nissan LEAF, for example, achieved around 112 MPG combined in its SL trim for the same year. The BMW i3 offered a slightly higher 124 MPG combined, but came at a significantly higher price point. The Chevrolet Bolt, with a 119 MPG combined rating, might seem like a more direct competitor, but the Clarity EV catered to buyers prioritizing a more conventional sedan body style. For someone searching for CLARITY MPG across all years, the 2018 model struck a sweet spot among the available EVs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. The Clarity EV features adjustable regenerative braking, which allows you to control the level of deceleration when you lift off the accelerator. Learning to anticipate traffic flow and coast whenever possible maximizes energy recovery and extends your range. Experiment with the different regen settings to find your preference and optimize for varying driving conditions.

Precondition the cabin while plugged in. Heating or cooling the car while it’s still connected to the charger draws power from the grid rather than the battery, preserving your driving range. This is especially useful in extreme weather conditions.

Monitor your tire pressure. Maintaining proper tire inflation reduces rolling resistance, improving efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended level specified in the owner’s manual.

Use Eco mode. The Clarity EV offers an Eco mode that remaps the accelerator pedal response and reduces power consumption of some accessories. This mode sacrifices some performance for increased range but is ideal for everyday commuting, especially in heavy traffic.

Plan your routes strategically. Minimize unnecessary stops and detours, and consider using navigation apps that provide efficient routing based on real-time traffic conditions. Knowing the location of charging stations along your route can also alleviate range anxiety and allow you to take advantage of opportunities to top up the battery.

The 2018 Clarity EV cemented Honda’s commitment to electrification and gave a practical choice to value-minded EV shoppers. For all Honda fuel economy data and information on the current electric lineup, see FuelEconomyHub.com’s manufacturer section.