Tokyo: Honda has rolled out a new fuel cell vehicle, the first of its kind to be a five-seater. The zero-emissions Clarity may not sell in big numbers, however, given its price tag of 7.66 million yen ($67,000).
Honda Motor Company yesterday said that its Japan sales target for the first year is just 200 vehicles, all through leasing to government organisations and businesses.
Tokyo-based Honda says the Clarity will go on sale in California later this year for about $60,000, and will lease for under $500 a month.
In Japan, the monthly leasing cost will vary according to the contract but will likely be about 100,000 yen ($880). Government green subsidies are expected to help defray the cost.
The new model has a cruise range of 750km on a full tank, which is at the top for a sedan, according to the carmaker.
Honda has been able to make the new fuel cell more powerful, and reduce its size, allowing for five passengers, instead of the previous four.
&uuid=(email))