The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid emerges as a frontrunner in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, offering a sophisticated and spacious sedan experience without compromising on driving range or comfort. As part of Honda’s pioneering Clarity series, alongside the Clarity Fuel Cell and Clarity Electric, the Plug-In Hybrid stands out as a volume leader, available across all 50 states. This model spearheads Honda’s ambitious goal to have electrified vehicles constitute two-thirds of its global sales by 2030, showcasing the brand’s commitment to mainstreaming EV technology. Manufactured in Honda’s Saitama factory in Japan, the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is engineered to meet the diverse needs of modern drivers seeking an eco-conscious yet practical vehicle.
Unrivaled Electric Range and Performance of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid distinguishes itself as a no-compromise electric vehicle, adeptly blending advanced technology with everyday usability. It boasts an EPA-rated all-electric range of 47 miles, the longest among plug-in hybrid sedans in its class. This substantial electric range empowers drivers to handle daily commutes and errands purely on electric power, significantly reducing reliance on gasoline and lowering running costs.
Beyond its impressive electric capability, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid also excels in long-distance travel. Its hybrid powertrain extends the total range to an EPA-rated 340 miles, alleviating range anxiety and ensuring drivers can confidently undertake extended journeys without frequent stops. This dual capability makes the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid an exceptionally versatile vehicle, catering to both daily urban driving and occasional long-haul trips.
Equipped with a suite of standard features, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid prioritizes convenience, connectivity, and safety. LED exterior lighting, Honda Sensing® safety technologies, smart entry with push-button start, and an 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration are all included as standard. For those seeking enhanced luxury, the Touring trim adds leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable seats with memory function, and a Honda satellite-linked navigation system, further elevating the driving experience.
The Elegantly Efficient Powertrain of the Honda Clarity
At the heart of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid lies Honda’s innovative two-motor hybrid system. This powertrain is composed of a highly efficient 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC® Atkinson-cycle engine, a potent 181-horsepower AC synchronous traction motor, and a 17-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This sophisticated combination ensures optimal performance and efficiency across various driving conditions.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid operates primarily in electric mode, leveraging its powerful electric motor for most driving scenarios. The gasoline engine and starter/generator motor act as a backup, generating electricity to either power the traction motor directly or recharge the battery pack. A regenerative braking system further enhances efficiency by capturing energy during deceleration and braking, converting it back into electricity to replenish the battery. This comprehensive system results in an impressive EPA rating of 110 MPGe in combined driving for all-electric operation.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid seamlessly transitions between three driving modes to optimize efficiency:
- EV Drive: In this mode, the Honda Clarity operates as a pure electric vehicle. The gasoline engine is completely disengaged, and power is solely supplied by the 181-horsepower electric motor, drawing energy from the lithium-ion battery.
- Hybrid Drive: Functioning as a series hybrid, this mode also utilizes the electric motor for propulsion. The gasoline engine and generator motor produce electricity, which is then directed to either the traction motor or the battery pack, depending on driving demands and battery charge level.
- Engine Drive: Typically engaged at medium to high speeds, this mode transforms the Honda Clarity into a parallel hybrid. A lock-up clutch connects the engine and traction motor, allowing power to flow directly from the engine to the front wheels. Notably, the Clarity eschews a conventional transmission, reducing weight and complexity while improving overall efficiency.
Drivers can further tailor their experience with selectable operating modes – Normal, Econ, and Sport – allowing for customization of efficiency and performance. An additional HV mode is available to maintain battery charge, offering even greater control over energy usage. The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid achieves a gasoline-only fuel economy rating of 44/40/42 mpg (city/highway/combined) EPA, demonstrating the inherent efficiency of its Atkinson-cycle engine.
Distinctive and Aerodynamic Design of the Honda Clarity
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid boasts a unique and aerodynamic exterior design that sets it apart within the Clarity lineup. Exclusive design elements include a model-specific Forest Blue Pearl exterior color, a striking chrome bar above the front grille, a chrome deck lid garnish, and uniquely styled 18-inch alloy wheels.
Aerodynamic efficiency is a core element of the Honda Clarity‘s design. The sleek silhouette, combined with features like front air curtains, rear tire covers, and rear air curtains, minimizes air resistance and maximizes fuel economy. The C-pillars are designed to reduce energy-wasting vortexes, and even the taillight lenses incorporate a “washboard” surface to optimize airflow.
Premium Interior Comfort and Technology of the Honda Clarity
Inside, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offers a spacious and premium cabin designed for five passengers. The interior exudes a modern and sophisticated ambiance, featuring a sleek instrument panel, available ivory white or black bio-fiber fabric or leather-trimmed power seating, and natural woodgrain finish accents. Environmentally responsible materials are used throughout, underscoring Honda’s commitment to sustainability.
Key interior features include an 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen, seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, and a 7-inch TFT intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) in the instrument cluster. Connectivity is further enhanced by HondaLink®, providing remote access to vehicle information and features like charge status and station finder.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid prioritizes passenger comfort and convenience with features like dual-zone climate control, rear heat/air conditioning vents, and ample storage solutions throughout the cabin. The trunk offers a generous 15.5 cubic feet of cargo space, among the largest in its class, easily accommodating luggage or golf bags.
Advanced Chassis and Safety Features of the Honda Clarity
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid delivers a refined and engaging driving experience, thanks to its advanced chassis engineering and focus on noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) reduction. A low center of gravity, achieved by positioning the battery pack under the floor, enhances handling and stability. Liquid-filled suspension bushings further contribute to a smooth and quiet ride.
The chassis incorporates lightweight front and rear subframes, a MacPherson front strut suspension, and a five-link rear suspension. Frequency Response Dampers automatically adjust damping force for optimal handling and ride comfort. The dual-pinion Electric Power Steering (EPS) system provides responsive and agile steering.
Safety is paramount in the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, which incorporates Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. This design enhances occupant protection in frontal collisions by distributing crash energy more effectively.
Standard Honda Sensing® technologies further bolster safety and driver assistance, including:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
Additionally, Honda LaneWatch™ and a multi-angle rearview camera enhance visibility and driver awareness.
Honda Clarity Trims and Accessories
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is available in two well-equipped trims: Plug-In Hybrid and Touring. The base Plug-In Hybrid trim includes a comprehensive suite of features, while the Touring trim adds premium upgrades like leather seating, navigation, and enhanced power seat adjustments.
A range of accessories is available to personalize and enhance the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, including alloy wheels, spoilers, and interior and exterior styling enhancements.
Conclusion: The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid – A Smart Choice for Electric Mobility
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid stands as a testament to Honda’s commitment to electric vehicle innovation. With its exceptional electric range, efficient hybrid powertrain, spacious interior, and advanced technology, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offers a compelling option for drivers seeking a versatile and eco-conscious sedan. Whether for daily commutes or long journeys, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid delivers a no-compromise electric driving experience that is both practical and rewarding.
(Note: All specifications and features are based on the 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid model year. Ratings may vary. Consult official sources for the most up-to-date information.)
