The 2017 Honda Clarity lineup spans three propulsion systems—Plug-In Hybrid, Electric, and Fuel Cell—each with its own range profile. The basic takeaway is that the ranges vary by variant: about 42 miles of electric range for the Plug-In Hybrid, roughly 89 miles per full charge for the Electric version, and around 366 miles on a full hydrogen tank for the Fuel Cell version. These figures are EPA estimates and can vary with driving conditions.
How the ranges break down
Below are the official EPA ranges for each Clarity variant available in 2017, reflecting the different powertrains within the lineup:
- Clarity Fuel Cell: EPA-estimated range of about 366 miles on a full hydrogen tank.
- Clarity Plug-In Hybrid: EPA-estimated electric range of about 42 miles; total driving range around 340 miles with gasoline backup.
- Clarity Electric: EPA-estimated range of about 89 miles per full charge.
The numbers highlight the core strengths of each variant: long-range hydrogen fuel cells, practical daily-use electric range, and a plug-in option that couples electric miles with gasoline when needed.
Variant-by-variant details
Clarity Fuel Cell
The Fuel Cell variant uses hydrogen energy to power an electric drivetrain. In 2017, Honda pitched the Clarity FCV as a longer-range option, with a hydrogen fueling network primarily in California and select markets. Real-world range can vary with speed, temperature, and hydrogen availability, but the EPA estimate was about 366 miles per tank, offering comfort for longer trips without frequent stops for fuel.
Clarity Plug-In Hybrid
The Plug-In Hybrid combines a battery-electric drive with a gasoline engine. It offers about 42 miles of electric driving on a full charge, after which the gasoline engine seamlessly takes over. The total driving range is typically around 340 miles, depending on driving conditions, battery state of charge, and fuel efficiency. Charging time depends on the charger used; on a 240V Level 2 charger, a full recharge could take several hours.
Clarity Electric
The all-electric Clarity Electric is a pure EV with no gasoline engine. In 2017 it offered about 89 miles of EPA-rated range per full charge. Real-world range depends on factors such as climate control usage, terrain, and driving style. Charging times vary by charger type and power output, with Level 2 charging significantly faster than Level 1.
Availability and market context
In 2017, Honda limited Clarity availability compared with mainstream sedans. The Fuel Cell variant was offered primarily in California and a few other hydrogen-accessible markets; the Electric and Plug-In Hybrid models were rolled out more broadly, but still carried limited dealer availability in some regions. The range figures were a focal point for consumers weighing alternatives in propulsion technology, reflecting Honda’s multi-path approach to electrification.
Summary
The 2017 Honda Clarity lineup presented three distinct range profiles to suit different needs: the Fuel Cell model delivered the longest-range option via hydrogen fuel, the Plug-In Hybrid offered a practical 42 miles of electric driving with a total range around 340 miles, and the all-electric Clarity Electric provided about 89 miles per charge. Together, the trio showcased Honda’s strategy to cover diverse driving patterns and fueling realities within a single family of vehicles.