On November 16 at the Los Angeles Auto Show—the industry’s Mecca for all green vehicle models—Honda (News - Alert) rolled out the production model of its 2013 Fit EV.
An all-electric hatchback subcompact that will be in the running against cars like the Ford Focus Electric and Nissan Leaf, the Fit EV joins a diverse lineup of Honda alternative fuel vehicles that includes gasoline-electric hybrid, fuel cell-electric, and natural gas-powered models.
"The Fit EV is the next critical step in Honda's portfolio approach to alternative fueled vehicles," said John Mendel, executive vice president, Sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "There is no other automaker on the planet whose spirit is more deeply invested in the effort to realize a cleaner, more energy-efficient and ultimately more sustainable transportation future than Honda."
According to company marketing materials, the Fit EV is designed to meet the needs of the “average urban commuter,” offering an estimated driving range of 123 miles on a single charge and a combined city/highway EV range of 76 miles. The Fit EV will be powered by a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 92-kilowatt coaxial electric motor. The high density electric motor delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds.Driving range of the Fit EV can be maximized by using several innovative features, including a three mode electric drive system, adapted from the CR-Z Sport Hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximize efficiency or improve acceleration. While in Econ mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17 percent compared to driving in Normal mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, adding to the Fit EV's “fun to drive” branding.In addition, the Fit EV includes interactive coaching features, designed to assist the driver in maximizing battery performance and driving range. The power meter alerts the driver to optimal driving conditions.
To help the driver manage the electric vehicle ownership experience, the Fit EV will have a standard telematics system that enables the driver to stay connected through a smartphone, personal computer, or interactive remote. (The interactive remote does not require a Web or mobile connection to operate; however, the driver must be within 100 feet of the vehicle for optimum reception.) Through the Fit EV smartphone and computer applications, the driver can remotely view the vehicle’s state of charge, initiate charging, and activate the air conditioner or heater; to pre-condition the vehicle while connected to the grid, which maximizes battery range on start-up. The system also can be programmed to send charging notifications and alerts, in order to optimize charging times based on varying utility rates. In addition, it provides access to 24-hour roadside assistance. The Fit EV will come equipped with a standard Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System that provides the ability to locate public charging stations and frequently updated traffic information.The 6.6 kW, onboard 32 amp charger allows for convenient recharging of the Fit EV. With a 240-volt charger, the Fit EV can fully recharge in as little as three hours. By launch time—in summer 2012 on the West Coast—Honda will have a preferred electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) charging supplier.In the passenger cabin, the seating surfaces are covered with bio-fabric. The Fit EV features illuminated meters that alert the driver to key vehicle functions including state of charge, battery usage, and driving range. The meters change color, depending on the driving mode selected (green, white, or red).
Starting next summer, the Fit EV will be available in the United States in one color—Reflection Blue Pearl—and only in California and Oregon on a three-year lease. The lease payment of $399 a month is based on a $36,625 MSRP—expensive compared to the gas-powered Fit (which is $20,000, fully loaded). Six undisclosed East Coast markets will be added in 2013. Over the course of the three-year program, Honda plans on making 1,100 Fit EVs available in America (the company also is testing the car in Japan and China).
In related news, at the show this week, the all-new 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas —the only factory-built, CNG-powered car produced in America —was named “2012 Green Car of the Year” on November 17. The award was presented to Honda by the editors of Green Car Journal representing a diverse panel of environmental experts and automotive enthusiasts who annually select a single vehicle for its outstanding environmental performance
Cheryl Kaften is an accomplished communicator who has written for consumer and corporate audiences. She has worked extensively for MasterCard (News - Alert) Worldwide, Philip Morris USA (Altria), and KPMG, and has consulted for Estee Lauder and the Philadelphia Inquirer Newspapers. To read more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.Edited by
Rich Steeves
