What kind of charger does the Honda Clarity use?
The Honda Clarity lineup uses different charging setups depending on the variant. The Fuel Cell version is refueled with hydrogen rather than plugged in; the plug-in hybrid and all-electric versions charge via standard electric outlets, with the all-electric model sometimes offering DC fast charging on compatible networks. Availability varies by model year and market.
Below is a detailed look at each Clarity variant and how charging works for it.
Clarity Fuel Cell (hydrogen-powered)
Charging for this variant does not involve an electric charging port. Instead, you refuel with hydrogen at a public or private station, and the fuel cell stack converts it to electricity to power the electric motor and onboard systems.
Charging and fueling basics
- No plug-in charging port is used for daily operation.
- Hydrogen refueling provides the energy needed to generate electricity on demand.
- Hydrogen fueling infrastructure is limited and availability depends on region.
In practice, the Clarity Fuel Cell relies on hydrogen refueling rather than traditional electric charging.
Clarity Plug-in Hybrid
This model combines a gasoline engine with a rechargeable battery and can be charged from the grid. It typically uses AC charging via a standard J1772 inlet and supports Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging. Most markets do not offer DC fast charging for this variant.
Charging specifics
- AC charging via J1772 inlet, usable at Level 1 (120V) or Level 2 (240V).
- On-board charger capacity generally varies by year, commonly around 3.3 kW to 6.6 kW depending on the trim and market.
- DC fast charging is not typically supported on Clarity Plug-in Hybrid.
Charging times depend on battery state of charge and the power source, with Level 2 charging being the practical daily option for most owners.
Clarity Electric (BEV)
The all-electric Clarity uses plug-in charging with a dedicated charging inlet. It supports Level 2 AC charging via a J1772 connection and, on some model years, DC fast charging through CHAdeMO at public networks. Availability of DC fast charging varies by year and market.
Charging specifics
- AC charging via J1772 inlet, typically up to 6.6 kW depending on the year and market.
- DC fast charging (CHAdeMO) available on certain model years/networks, up to around 50 kW where offered.
- Charging setup includes a home charging kit or public charging access, with the exact ports and power available depending on the year and region.
For daily use, Level 2 AC charging remains the standard, while DC fast charging is an option where supported.
Summary
In short, the charging story for the Honda Clarity depends on the variant you’re considering. The Fuel Cell version does not plug in and uses hydrogen fueling instead. The Plug-in Hybrid charges via standard AC charging (J1772) with Level 1/Level 2 options and typically no DC fast charging. The Electric BEV charges via AC Level 2 and, on some model years, can use DC fast charging (CHAdeMO) where available. Prospective buyers and owners should confirm the exact port types and charging power for their specific model year and region, as availability has varied and the lineup has been largely phased out in many markets.
