Honda just created history in motorsport. The new CR-V e:FCEV, the world’s first hydrogen-powered sport utility vehicle, made its debut running up the famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. It was more-or-less stock—the world’s first production hydrogen CUV entered into competition—and it is already creating buzz as clean technology reaches new heights against altitude and adrenaline.
This event, aptly called “Race to the Clouds,” stands on its own: 12.42 miles, 156 turns, and a summit elevation of 14,115 feet. With Dai Yoshihara behind the wheel of the CR-V, no significant alterations to the powertrain, this vehicle proves hydrogen fuel cells are not merely an experiment, but a truly competitive option.
Hydrogen Power Without the Hype
Underneath, the CR‑V e:FCEV stays to its mostly stock setup: Honda’s second-gen fuel-cell system, along with a front electric motor, a 17.7 kWh battery, and double onboard hydrogen tanks; all produced in Honda’s plants in Ohio and Michigan Honda and HRC US added racing touches - a one-inch lower stance, race brake pads, lighter 18" wheels with Yokohama A052 tires, a proper safety cage and racing seat. That’s it. This SUV has kept its identity: a nearly stock CR‑V now powered by hydrogen but race-ready.
Beating High Altitude With Green Tech
Although altitude would normally be an obstacle for a combustion car, the CR-V e:FCEV cannon simply disregard it. Hydrogen fuel cells, unlike gas engines, do not suffer power loss in rarefied air. Honda’s selection of Dai Yoshihara (a two-time winner of Pikes Peak) means that reliability and performance were guaranteed. Instead of racing gas stations and cables, Honda brought a compact hydrogen fueling apparatus from Zero Emission Industries (ZEI). Portable, suitcase-sized, and effective, there is little more to tell, it charged the CR-V right at the base of the mountain. No infrastructure, no problem.
Quick Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Powertrain | 2nd-gen Honda fuel-cell, 174 hp, 229 lb-ft torque |
| Battery | 17.7 kWh lithium-ion |
| Safety Upgrades | Roll cage, race seat, safety harness |
| Performance Upgrades | 1″ lower ride, racing brakes, 18″ Yokohama A052 tires, lightweight rims |
| Hydrogen Refueling | ZEI portable hydrogen fueling system |
| Racing Class | Exhibition (near stock build) |
| Driver | Dai Yoshihara, two-time Pikes Peak class champion |
Why This Race Entry is Significant
This isn't a performance showcase, it's a declaration. Honda has been entering clean-tech vehicles to Pikes Peak since 1994, but this hydrogen SUV is new and different. It is almost stock, Mr. HII is modern, and it realizes a vision of having everyday vehicles racing with clean energy. If this CR-V races to the summit without any changes to the powertrain, it isn't just a neat headline - it is a demonstration that hydrogen CUVs can be substantial, fun, and green. Honda has tapped a trailblazing driver and combined their classic heritage, performance, and eco-future vision into a unique motorsport ascent.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
