Honda is developing hydrogen fuel cell-powered powertrains to be used in its future range of motorcycles. While we have seen Honda’s fuel cell patent filings before, this is the first time that the powertrain has been seen at the heart of a motorcycle.
The drawings show that the hydrogen fuel tank will be positioned below the seat while the cells are located at the front. The battery shares space with the electric motor. The power is sent to the rear wheel through a shaft final drive. The design of the motorcycle is nothing like what we have seen in Honda so far, and seems to have been designed exclusively for this powertrain.
The hydrogen fuel cell technology provides for emissions-free transport like conventional electric two-wheelers, without the painfully slow recharging time. Honda was one of the first manufacturers to it use in a production car - the Clarity. As for two-wheelers, Suzuki had showcased a Burgman concept back in 2007, although it never made it to the production line. However, these patents now show Honda’s commitment towards putting the eco-friendly technology on the road.
