The partnership is limited to manufacturing of fuel cells only; the companies will build their cars separately. The cost of developing advanced zero-emission powertrains for future vehicles is substantial, even for the world's largest carmakers. Especially in hydrogen fuel-cell research, the biggest auto companies are doubling and tripling up to share the costs.
Each company will manufacture its own cars using their technology, however.
Honda Motor will launch its Clarity mid-size sedan model for 2017; the first model will be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, although later versions may include battery-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains as well.
General Motors is now focusing on its 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV, a battery-electric car with 200 miles of range it will start selling at the end of this year.
The two automakers aim to produce hydrogen fuel cells by 2025.
