The 2021 Honda Clarity FCV achieves 68 MPG combined, showcasing its goal of maximizing efficiency through hydrogen fuel cell technology. This number, possible in a sedan with passenger space, shows that buyers want sustainable transportation and are willing to embrace new technology. They also accept the logistical challenges for near-zero emissions driving.

City and highway performance

The Clarity FCV is consistently efficient in different driving conditions. The EPA rates it at 68 MPG in the city and 67 MPG on the highway. This consistent efficiency comes from the electric powertrain, where energy use depends on acceleration instead of constant high speeds. The similar city/highway numbers benefit drivers in urban areas because the Clarity FCV doesn’t waste energy in stop-and-go traffic like a traditional gasoline car. Its regenerative braking system can improve efficiency in these conditions.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Honda Clarity FCV at $772. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average hydrogen fuel prices. This cost can change based on hydrogen prices and driving habits. Hydrogen availability and price vary by location. The $772 figure shows how economical hydrogen can be when the infrastructure is improved.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Clarity FCV owners often drive efficiently, seeking to minimize their impact on the environment. The Clarity FCV has “Normal” and “Econ” modes, with “Econ” prioritizing fuel economy. Fast acceleration decreases range and efficiency like any electric or hybrid vehicle, but consistent driving helps you to reach or exceed the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The Clarity FCV has few direct competitors in the hydrogen fuel cell vehicle segment. The Toyota Mirai, another hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, gets an EPA-estimated 76 MPGe combined in its LE trim, a slight advantage. The Mirai XLE and Limited trims, which have more features and technology, get 65 MPGe. Compare this to all Honda fuel economy data. The Hyundai Nexo also competes, with an EPA-estimated 61 MPGe combined. Buyers of the Clarity FCV, Mirai, and Nexo want zero tailpipe emissions driving. For buyers focused on fuel economy and not committed to hydrogen, plug-in hybrids like the Toyota Prius Prime (133 MPGe combined) and the CLARITY MPG across all years plug-in hybrid trim are alternatives, with higher numbers but tailpipe emissions. These don’t offer the same zero-emissions driving and fast refueling as the Clarity FCV.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Use “Econ” mode. This setting softens the throttle and optimizes energy consumption for maximum efficiency in city driving where quick acceleration isn’t always needed. This saves hydrogen without impacting your driving much.

Accelerate and brake smoothly. Avoid hard accelerations and keep a steady pace. Look ahead and coast when possible to let the regenerative braking system recapture energy and extend your range. This is important for efficient driving in any electric or fuel cell vehicle.

Precondition the cabin while plugged in. Use the Clarity FCV’s climate control system to pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin while the vehicle is charging. This keeps the system from using the fuel cell while driving. This is especially helpful during extreme temperatures, because this can reduce range.

Check the tire pressure, maintaining the recommended pressure to reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel economy. Check regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes because tire pressure can change.

Reduce accessory use. Air conditioning, headlights, and other electrical accessories affect fuel economy, so only use them when needed to save energy and extend your driving range.