A production fuel cell Honda CR-V took part in a demonstration run at the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado, driven by two-time Formula Drift champion and former Pikes Peak winner Dai Yoshihara.

The objective wasn’t to break records or post a competitive time. Instead, the aim was to showcase the vehicle’s hydrogen capabilities in one of the world’s most demanding motorsport events. The SUV’s powertrain remained untouched, but the vehicle was race-prepped by engineers from the Honda of America Race Team (HART), Honda R&D Japan, and Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) to withstand the 156 turns and 19.9 km course, climbing to an altitude of over 1,440 metres.

This marked the first time a hydrogen-powered vehicle has ever participated in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. The CR-V e:FCEV is manufactured at Honda’s Marysville plant in Ohio and is equipped with Honda’s second-generation fuel cell system.

The car finished 69th overall out of 73 entries and came third in the “Exhibition” class—an underwhelming result for Honda, a brand that has previously claimed class victories with electric vehicles at the same event.

Hydrogen refuelling for the CR-V was provided by Zero Emission Industries (ZEI), using their innovative FTcase — a portable hydrogen refuelling solution about the size of a carry-on suitcase, capable of turning any hydrogen gas source into a complete mobile refuelling station.

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