Providing visual contrast with this pair was a new FCX fuel-cell concept, a low sleek sedan with "cab-forward" proportions and a very short nose. Recently previewed for journalists in Japan, this car uses a new-design fuel-cell stack placed lengthwise in the center, rather than up front. Compared to its current fuel cell, Honda says this new one is 20-percent smaller and 30-percent lighter, yet generates 14kW more electricity.

Maximizing the extra juice is a backup battery switched from nickel-metal-hydride to more-efficient lithium-ion, which contributes to a claimed 30-percent gain in operating range. And though fuel cells don't like cold weather, Honda says this third-generation unit starts reliably at minus-30-degrees Centigrade. We understand Honda will actually build this FCX in small numbers for fleet evaluation and possible use by favored individuals. But don't expect to see it in your local showroom anytime soon. Fuel-cell cars are still at least a decade away.

Honda Concepts: FCX, Remix, and StepBus