HONDA FCX CONCEPT VEHICLE PROVIDES UNIQUE DESIGN,

PERFORMANCE AND STYLING LOOK AT 21ST CENTURY

DETROIT, Jan. 10 – The FCX concept vehicle, which also provides a glimpse of a next-generation sedan, features Honda's innovative fuel cell unit powertrain. Honda has announced its intentions to put fuel cell-powered vehicles on the road in 2003.

"In the 21st century, advanced vehicle technologies, such as fuel cells, will take an increasingly important role," said Tom Elliott, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Just as Honda has been a leader in introducing low-emissions, high-mileage gasoline, electric and hybrid gas-electric vehicles, we intend to be a leader in fuel cell technology too."

Honda is researching both methanol and hydrogen fuel cell prototypes. In the FCX concept vehicle, the fuel cell unit, located below the floor of the passenger cabin, employs a methanol-type fuel cell designed by Honda. Power is achieved when a methanol and water mixture moves from a storage tank, located in the rear of the unit, through a "fuel processor" where hydrogen is extracted. The hydrogen is then mixed with oxygen within the cell stack (part of the fuel cell system) to produce electricity. This in turn powers the electric drive motor.

Honda recently joined the California Fuel Cell Partnership, and will be demonstrating hydrogen-fueled fuel cell vehicles in California in cooperation with other partnerships.

The FCX also is considered an example of what can be expected in sedans of the future. The compact size of the fuel cell drivetrain allows for increased cabin space, while the short nose provides ease of handling.

Additional interior features include four large, comfortable seats, smart card ignition key and fingerprint ID system, large screen multi-information monitor on center console, rear seat passenger airbags, a state-of-the-art audio system with CD changer and newly developed meters with illuminated digital display.

The exterior is a perfect balance of sharp, solid masculine angles within a gentle roundness that encircles the interior. This design gives the FCX an esthetic appeal as well as providing excellent aerodynamics. To help reduce drag, Honda designers eliminated exterior mirrors and replaced them with miniature video cameras and an interior video display.

The FCX represents performance, advanced technology and futuristic styling all wrapped up in one vehicle.

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