Honda is to deliver new FCX fuel cell vehicles to the city of Los Angeles, the first time its vehicles have been put to public use.

Two years ago Honda released its first FCX model, the first fuel cell vehicle in the world to receive government certification.

The latest version offers around 15 per cent more maximum drive motor torque than the previous prototypes, with additional improved power output and acceleration.

It also has an amplified driving range of around 225 miles, about 25 miles more than the previous model.

With an engine output of around 60 kW, Honda claims the fuel cell car has a similar performance to its petrol counterpart, the Honda Civic.

Further details of the LA sale are expected to be released shortly, but news that the fuel cell cars will be in the public arena suggests the commercialisation of the technology is finally beginning to take hold.