Honda claims to have cut noise levels on its next generation fuel-cell powered FCX Concept car, it has been reported.

Earlier versions of the vehicle had been hampered by being significantly noisier than other marques' fuel cell cars on account of the type of air compressor employed by Honda.

Where other manufacturers had used the quieter electrical turbocharger, the Japanese firm had invested its faith in a screw-type compressor, which although significantly more efficient than its rivals produces a whining sound.

Although reluctant to discuss details of the company's methods, Honda's chief fuel cell engineer Sachiot Fujimoto told the Telegraph: "The work we are doing on noise is one of the most confidential parts of the entire project, so I can say no more than that we have been working on the pump intake and exhaust."

Meanwhile, noise levels are expected to be further reduced when the carbon-fibre bodyshell used in early versions of the car is replaced by steel.

The FCX Concept is expected to move to full production next year, although will be available initially only in Japan and America.

Last week the car made its European driving debut at the Gotland Ring in Sweden.

Sources:

Honda's fuel-cell future is a quieter one, 07/07/07
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/main.jhtml?xml=/motoring/2007/07/07/mnhon07.xml

Honda launches fuel cell car, 02/07/07
http://www.platinum.matthey.com/media_room/1183381206.html

Honda FCX makes European debut, 06/07/07
http://www.fuelcelltoday.com/FuelCellToday/IndustryInformation/IndustryInformationExternal/NewsDisplayArticle/0,1602,9402,00.html

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