For over a year, we at Brandfon Honda in Branford, CT had to hear about overseas green car lovers driving around in Honda Fit EV cars. Well friends, our time is now! It seems like the United States, as well as Canada, will get their own Fit EV's.
Honda Fit EV came to the recent Los Angeles Auto Show in full production form, followed by a huge media event from the company at Tokyo's Motor Show. Onlookers loved Fit EV, but those here in North America should be warned - production will be limited to 1100 cars, and might only be accessible in select markets.
The Fit electric motor is similar to that found inside Honda's FCX Clarity fuel-cell EV. It produces 123 horsepower along with 189 lb-ft of torque. This engine is powered by a 20-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. EPA range on the window sticker will reportedly hover around 76 miles per charge, though Honda was hoping for over 100.
The battery pack is mounted underneath Fit. "It's a decision that resulted in a floor that's three inches higher than the conventional model's, but the Fit's cathedral ceiling meant that we didn't notice the reduced headroom," according to Car and Driver.1
Rear seats will still fold flat, allowing various configurations for increased space and utility.
Honda Fit EV leases are estimated to cost around $399 per month, with availability beginning next summer.
Source: 1http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-honda-fit-ev-electric-first-drive-review
