It seems that Honda is assuming all the risks inherent in a new technology, through the leases. It’s better to pay a flat amount, than assume an unknown amount of risk. Even if the vehicle worked perfectly, you’d be at risk for technological advances that could hammer the resale value. It’s likely that fuel cells will be more powerful, more efficient, more reliable, and cheaper in three years -- which would make older vehicles worth a lot less. Buy when the technology has matured a bit, and has a track record of reliability.
“Buy when the technology has matured a bit, and has a track record of reliability.”
Excellent Point on risk taking. That’s interesting.
My ‘03 hybrid in CA could be sold for almost what I bought it for. However, that’s mostly because it has those coveted diamond lane stickers on it. They only gave away 45k of them. They add about $4k or more to resale, or so I’m told.
That all sounds pretty logical.
But it cut no ice with all the cry babies when GM took back the GM EV1 at the end of their leases.
Hopefully, Honda will decide to continue with new models after this introductory vehicle and its lease-only aspect.