The Honda fuel cell has been significantly improved, the company announced yesterday, with a number of engineering upgrades resulting in better performance.

The latest version of the Honda FCX comes equipped with a newly developed fuel cell stack, making the car able to start at temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius, and operate at temperatures up to 95 C.

The new FCX stack comes with a metal separator structure that is easier to manufacture, with a reduction of necessary components by 50 per cent as well as a longer life.

It also includes a new aromatic electrolyte membrane that reduces manufacturing costs and increases the range between cold and warm temperature operation.

Power output has been increased to 107 horsepower and 273 Nm of torque, offering excellent performance capabilities as a result.

The car also comes with a range of 190 miles and seating for four people, making it practical for everyday use.

The hydrogen-powered Honda FCX is the only fuel cell vehicle certified by the California Air Resources Board and the US Environmental Protection Agency for everyday commercial use.

The firm's improvements to the vehicle echo the strides being made elsewhere in the industry, with DaimlerChrysler yesterday announcing plans to present the next generation of its fuel cell vehicles at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show.

The new fuel cell model, built on the Mercedes Benz B-Class, will be suitable for use in sports vehicles, in a further extension of the fuel cell's marketability.