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How many kWh is the 2018 Honda Clarity plug-in hybrid?

The 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid uses a 17 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This capacity supports an EPA-estimated electric range in the low-to-mid 40s miles per full charge, with the gasoline engine extending total range for longer trips.


The Clarity PHEV is designed as a plug-in hybrid, meaning most daily driving can be done on electric power and the onboard gasoline engine helps when the battery is depleted. The battery size also influences charging needs, efficiency, and the vehicle’s operating profile in mixed driving conditions.


Battery capacity and electric range


Key figures describe how the battery capacity translates into electric driving potential and overall range.



  • Battery capacity: 17 kWh (lithium-ion) pack

  • EPA-estimated electric range: about 42 miles (approximately 68 kilometers) on a full charge

  • Combined range: ~340 miles when including gasoline engine, depending on driving conditions


These figures vary with temperature, driving style, terrain, and use of climate control. The 17 kWh pack is sized to support daily commuting on electric power while providing a seamless transition to gasoline power for longer trips.


Charging options and practical use


Charging possibilities and realistic recharge times influence how the car fits into daily life.



  • AC charging: supports standard Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging

  • Estimated recharge times: roughly 12 hours or more on a 120V outlet; about 2.5–3.5 hours on a Level 2 240V charger, depending on the exact onboard charging capability

  • DC fast charging: not supported for the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid


Because it lacks DC fast charging, most owners rely on home or workplace Level 2 charging for everyday use, with longer trips sustained by the gasoline engine once the battery is depleted.


What this means for buyers


The 17 kWh battery makes the Clarity PHEV a practical choice for those with substantial daily electric driving but who still want the reassurance of a gasoline backup for longer journeys. Real-world electric range will depend on weather, driving habits, and climate control use.


Summary


In short, the 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is equipped with a 17 kWh battery pack, offering roughly 42 miles of electric-only range per full charge and a combined range that covers longer trips with the help of its gasoline engine. Charging is done via Level 1 or Level 2 AC outlets, with no DC fast charging option, making home or workplace charging the most practical approach for daily use.

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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.