Tokyo motor show - Honda FCX and CR-Z

Honda has confirmed it will put its FCX hydrogen fuel cell car into production next month.

Speaking at the Tokyo motor show, Honda's President Takeo Fukui said a production version of the FCX concept car will be displayed at the LA show in November, before going on sale in the USA and Japan during 2008.

The FCX's engine works by combining hydrogen with oxygen to create electricity via a chemical reaction. This powers an electric motor that delivers drive to the car's wheels. It has a range of 354 miles.

The car's handling is improved because it doesn't need a traditional combustion engine or any of its associated cooling components. Plus, the battery can be housed anywhere in the vehicle, allowing for a better centre of gravity and improved weight distribution.

Fukui also confirmed that Honda will put a car based on its CR-Z concept car – a lightweight sports car powered by a hybrid powertrain – into production in 2009, when it will also launch its new 'global hybrid' family car.

'Hybrids have always been seen as niche products, and hybrid design has mostly been based around practicality and versatility,' said Honda UK's John Kingston. 'The CR-Z concept car shows that green cars can be sexy and exciting – but also minimise environmental impact.'