On January 18, 2024, Honda’s American subsidiary made a significant announcement about the company’s four-wheel vehicle business in the United States for the fiscal year. Among the revelations was the upcoming release of the “super amazing CR-V FCEV,” a novel fuel-powered sporty SUV set to hit the US market later in 2024.

Mamadou Diallo, Senior Vice President of Sales for Honda in the United States, shared insights into the company’s performance, stating, “In 2023, sales for both the Honda and Acura brands rebounded, concluding the year with a remarkable 30% increase. Looking ahead to 2024, we are focusing on capital investment in hybrid vehicles and other products, including the launch of our first mass-produced battery electric vehicle (BEV).

As part of Honda’s strategic approach, the company aims to boost sales of zero-emission vehicles, such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs). Diallo emphasized their commitment to this goal and revealed plans to introduce the CR-V FCEV, a new addition to the Honda lineup. The CR-V, a popular midsize crossover SUV, has been a global success since its inception in 1995, and the latest 6th generation model, introduced in 2022, has further expanded its appeal.

The CR-V FCEV, based on the current 6th generation model, stands out as the first mass-produced vehicle in North America to seamlessly integrate plug-in functionality and FCEV technology. Honda aims to capitalize on the success of its hybrid models, including the “e:HEV” variant, which became the best-selling hybrid vehicle in the United States with annual sales reaching 197,317 units by 2023.

In addition to the CR-V FCEV, Honda’s US subsidiary plans to launch Acura’s electric SUV, the “ZDX,” in early 2024. Furthermore, the company is gearing up for the release of the new BEV, “Prologue,” within the next few months, signaling Honda’s commitment to a diverse and innovative electric vehicle lineup.

Mamadou Diallo outlined the company’s vision for zero-emission vehicles, stating, “In 2024, we will begin selling three zero-emission vehicles, contributing to our goal of achieving 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2040 and ultimately realizing carbon neutrality by 2050. These initiatives mark our dedication to sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.” Honda’s upcoming releases showcase their commitment to innovation and align with global efforts to address climate change through the adoption of electric and fuel cell technologies.

Honda has unveiled its latest innovation in the form of the CR-V e:FCEV, a hydrogen-powered SUV set to hit the Japanese market in the summer of 2024. This groundbreaking vehicle marks a revival of the CR-V series, which began back in 1995 and has evolved through five generations until its hiatus in 2022. The new CR-V boasts a unique feature – it is an electric vehicle equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell, setting it apart from traditional gasoline and hybrid models.

The CR-V e:FCEV showcases impressive specifications, with a body size measuring
4805mm in length
1865mm in width
1690mm in height
along with a wheelbase of 2700mm.

Its design combines strength and luxury, featuring a vertically placed front grille and a spacious interior akin to North American gasoline vehicles. The vehicle’s electric motor delivers a maximum output of 174 horsepower and 229 lb.-ft of torque, with enhanced durability and reduced production costs thanks to a joint development effort with General Motors.

One of the standout features of the CR-V e:FCEV is its versatility in charging and power supply functions. In addition to running on hydrogen, it can also function like a regular EV, offering charging capabilities through a standard SAE J1772 plug. This dual functionality ensures operational flexibility, especially in areas with limited hydrogen infrastructure.

The reception of the CR-V e:FCEV has been positive on social media, with users expressing enthusiasm for its plug-in charging function and potential market success as an SUV model. However, concerns have been raised about the availability of hydrogen stations in Japan and the need for further infrastructure development to support widespread adoption of fuel cell vehicles.

As Honda prepares for the official release of the CR-V e:FCEV, anticipation is high to see how this innovative SUV will resonate with consumers and shape the future of eco-friendly transportation in Japan.

Honda’s “tough-looking” new CR-V, the size of Toyota’s Harrier, is unveiled! The “6th generation” with a “powerful design” is launched in the ink market! What about Japan?While the 5th generation is still being sold in Japan, the 6th generation debuts in Mexico On December 1, 2022, Honda’s Mexican subsidiary unveiled the new 2023 CR-V.

Coming to Japan! Interior and exterior of Honda’s handsome new CR-V SUV in 44 images.The new CR-V, the sixth-generation model, will make its world premiere in the U.S. on July 12, 2022. It was launched in the U.S. market on September 22 of the same year, and has since been sold in China as well. In Japan, inventory sales of the 5th generation, which ended production at the end of August 2022, are still ongoing.

Honda’s new CR-V also launched in the Mexican marketThe CR-V is a crossover SUV that was first introduced in 1995, and the current model is the 6th generation model, which made its world premiere in the U.S. on July 12, 2022.The sixth-generation model is also the model that has been announced for introduction to Mexico.

　Its exterior features sophisticated and powerful styling. The new horizontal lines emphasize the larger body, and the slightly longer wheelbase improves stability and gives the car an imposing presence.The A-pillars are positioned approximately 15 cm forward to achieve wider proportions and better visibility, and door-mounted side mirrors are newly adopted.At the front, a larger new grille and longer hood emphasize the refreshed styling, and LED lights are standard. It also features a slim, body-colored roof spoiler and 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels (depending on specifications).

　The interior features piano-like finishes on various elements of the cabin, including the dashboard and steering wheel, as well as leather seats and steering wheel for a luxurious feel. The interior has a modern and sporty impression in line with Honda’s new design concept.The instrument panel is designed with minimal lines to minimize reflections on the windshield. The metal honeycomb mesh along the dashboard, ventilation and climate control air intakes enhance both appearance and functionality, functionally keeping the cabin cool and elegant.

　The new front seats stabilize the body and provide a sporty, comfortable driving position that is less tiring on long journeys. Between the front seats is a center console with 9 liters of storage capacity, the largest in its class.In addition, the rear seats can be reclined in eight positions, providing more comfort and space.The powertrain will be powered by a DOHC 1.5-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine with a maximum output of 188 hp and maximum torque of 177 lb/ft. This engine features an improved VTEC system for improved performance and reduced emissions. This is combined with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that has been improved to reduce noise and vibration.

　Body size is 4626 mm (overall length) x 1855 mm (overall width) x 1679 mm (overall height), equivalent to that of the Toyota Harrier. The wheelbase is 2660 mm.Three grades will be available in Mexico: the base grade “”Turbo,”” the “”Turbo Plus,”” which offers slightly more features and a choice of colors, and the “”Touring,”” which is the highest grade and fully equipped with Honda Sensing and other safety features.

　Prices start at 714,900 pesos (approximately 4,950,000 yen) for the Turbo, 769,900 pesos (approximately 5,330,000 yen) for the Turbo Plus, and 819,900 pesos (approximately 5,670,000 yen) for the Touring.As mentioned above, the new CR-V has been announced and released in the North American and Chinese markets in addition to Mexico, but no official announcement has been made regarding its introduction to the Japanese market.A representative of a Honda-affiliated sales company spoke about the matter as follows: “”Overseas, the new CR-V has been launched in the U.S. and China as well as Mexico.

The new CR-V has been announced overseas. Some customers have asked us, ‘When will the next CR-V go on sale?’ Some customers have asked us, ‘When will the next CR-V go on sale?At the moment, the possibility of the new ZR-V entering the Japanese market is low, given the pending introduction of the new ZR-V in Japan and the CR-V’s sales performance to date.
However, since the 5th generation, which was discontinued, was introduced two years after the overseas market, we cannot deny the possibility that it will be released in Japan a few years down the road.We can only hope that the new CR-V, with its refreshed design and much improved features, will be introduced in Japan.

Honda’s U.S. subsidiary made waves on June 27, 2023, with the launch of their highly anticipated racing concept car, the “CR-V Hybrid Racer.” This groundbreaking vehicle was officially unveiled to the world on February 28, 2023, and is the result of a collaborative effort between Honda Performance Development (HPD), engineers from the Auto Development Center (ADC) of Honda’s U.S. development division, and designers from the North American Auto Design Division.

The CR-V Hybrid Racer aims to redefine the boundaries of high-performance automobiles, positioning itself as the “ultimate high-performance Beast.” Drawing inspiration from iconic racing machines of the 1980s and 1990s, as well as rally cars from the Group B category, the car was meticulously designed at a mass production car studio in Los Angeles, California. While certain elements of the sixth-generation “CR-V” can still be seen in its exterior, the CR-V Hybrid Racer is an entirely different beast altogether.

Distinguishing features of this concept car include a chromoly tube frame for its body structure, a significantly wider rear wing compared to the body’s width, full carbon front and rear over fenders, and a front splitter. The front doors have been transformed into “butterfly half-cut doors” that open upwards, while the sides feature a canard spoiler to enhance aerodynamics and large air ducts for improved performance. Inside the cabin, the CR-V Hybrid Racer boasts a Spartan setup with full bucket seats and a racing steering wheel, departing from the standard CR-V’s design.

Powering this beastly machine is a hybrid drivetrain situated at the rear, featuring a 2-liter V-type 6-cylinder twin-turbo engine and a motor. This hybrid configuration, akin to the engines used in IndyCar series machines, delivers an astonishing 800 horsepower and is paired with a paddle-shift XTRAC 6-speed transmission. The CR-V Hybrid Racer also incorporates the front suspension and front brakes from the Acura “NSX GT-3 Evo22,” developed by HPD, as well as the rear suspension and rear brakes from the Dallara “IR-18 IndyCar.” It rides on fat Firestone super high-performance summer tires (285/35 at the front, 305/35 at the rear) mounted on 20-inch alloy wheels.

In an exclusive video showcasing the CR-V Hybrid Racer’s development and production process, viewers are treated to scenes of the car’s body being mounted onto the tube frame, intricate decorative touches being added, and the assembly of its engine and powertrain. Additionally, the video features rare footage of the car before its body decoration was applied, providing a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse. David Salters, President and Technical Director of HPD, expressed his enthusiasm for the CR-V Hybrid Racer, stating, “The CR-V Hybrid Racer is a passionate project for all Honda employees involved in design, engineering, and manufacturing. It embodies the tradition of racing.”

Excitement surrounding the CR-V Hybrid Racer continues to mount as it prepares for an exhilarating showcase on May 10, where it will be driven by the esteemed Red Bull Racing F1 driver and two-time F1 world champion, Max Verstappen. The event will be accompanied by a captivating video capturing Verstappen’s mastery behind the wheel.

The Honda CR-V, a beloved medium-sized SUV, made its debut in 1995. Although production of the fifth-generation model ceased in August 2022 in Japan, the sixth-generation model is still available in overseas markets such as North America. For fans of the CR-V, there is an additional treat—a video featuring Max Verstappen driving this remarkable vehicle is also accessible, allowing enthusiasts to witness the fusion of Honda’s expertise in both SUVs and high-performance racing.

Honda’s Amazing SUV is set to make a comeback in the summer of 2024 after about 2 years since its last sale in Japan. The new model, the CR-V e:FCEV, will be reintroduced as a Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) variant. This revival brings anticipation for potential additions like gasoline engine variants to the lineup

The CR-V e:FCEV is designed with a fuel cell unit powered by hydrogen, a technology that Honda has successfully commercialized with the Clarity FUEL CELL. This new model offers an extended range with a single hydrogen fill and the flexibility to run on the motor using a charged battery, making it an attractive option as a next-generation vehicle.

Honda announced the production start of the new CR-V e:FCEV at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Ohio, USA, on June 6, 2024. This facility, known for its expertise in producing specialty vehicles like the second-generation NSX, ensures high-quality production for global markets.

While the CR-V e:FCEV is scheduled for release in the Japanese market in 2024, details about other power unit variants remain undisclosed. Honda’s efforts to enhance its SUV lineup with models like ZR-V,Vezel, and WR-V demonstrate a commitment to diversifying its offerings.

The CR-V, known for its debut in 1995 as Honda’s midsize SUV, has garnered popularity not only in Japan but also in markets like North America, Europe, China, and other Asian countries. Despite its global success, the CR-V has seen changes over generations, gradually moving away from the size preferences of the Japanese market.

In Japan, the introduction of the new ZR-V model has effectively replaced the CR-V in the lineup. The ZR-V, based on the Civic’s chassis, represents a return to the original concept of the first-generation CR-V. This strategic move aligns with Honda’s goal of catering to evolving market demands.

The upcoming CR-V e:FCEV launch signifies a significant milestone for Honda in Japan, marking its second revival in two years. The model’s production at the PMC in Ohio highlights Honda’s dedication to innovation and sustainability in its vehicle manufacturing processes.

As Honda continues to expand its SUV offerings globally, there is speculation about the potential introduction of right-hand drive models for the Japanese market. The anticipation for models like the CR-V e:HEV RS, with its sporty design and advanced features, adds excitement to the future of Honda’s SUV lineup.

With a focus on safety and cutting-edge technology like Honda SENSING, the new CR-V models aim to deliver a premium driving experience. The inclusion of features like a multi-view camera system and a touch panel infotainment system reflects Honda’s commitment to providing advanced functionalities across its lineup.

In conclusion, the resurgence of the CR-V in Japan signifies Honda’s dedication to meeting diverse market needs and staying ahead in the competitive SUV segment. With a blend of innovation, sustainability, and performance, the new CR-V models are poised to make a significant impact in the automotive industry.