Honda has developed new nano technology in the form of microscopic carbon nanotubes a hundred thousand times thinner than a human hair to help it develop new fuel cell and battery technology.

The research for the new technology was led by Honda Research Institute USA, in conjunction with researchers at Purdue University and the University of Louisville.

The technology has the potential to allow electricity to travel faster and over greater distances with minimal loss of energy. It will also allow Honda to further miniaturise its technologies and increase the energy efficiency across its technologies in everything it develops, including cars.

Dr. Hideaki Tsuru, project director from Honda Research Institute USA, said: “When these tiny carbon nanotubes exhibit metallic conductivity they possess extraordinary strength compared to steel, higher electrical properties than copper, are as efficient in conducting heat as a diamond and are as light as cotton.

“Our goal is not only the creation of new and better technologies and products, but to fulfill Honda’s commitment to environment sustainability.”