Honda Fit EV Delivery Starts
The first delivery of the Honda Fit EV has taken place at the Torrance Hall. The 2013 Honda Fit EV, designed to meet the needs of an average urban commuter, offers an estimated driving range of 123-miles on a single charge using the US EPA city cycle test methods.
The new Honda Fit EV will be powered by a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery made by Toshiba and a 92 kilowatt coaxial electric motor. The high density electric motor, derived from the motor used in the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds.
Honda Fit’s electric motor is derived from the one installed in Honda’s FCX Clarity fuel-cell EV and pumps out 123 hp and 189 lb-ft of torque. Range on the unadjusted, highly optimistic LA4 driving loop is 123 miles, but the adjusted EPA range on the window sticker should be closer to 76 miles. That’s based on a consumption figure of 29 kWh per 100 miles; the Nissan Leaf uses slightly more energy at 34 kWh per 100 miles.
Honda has eliminated the grille of the Fit to reduce aerodynamic drag and thereby boost driving range. A spoiler wraps around the rear window, again to improve the Fit EV’s aero performance.
An energy-efficient air conditioning system and regenerative braking are also included. If that’s not green enough for you, the Fit EV’s cabin uses plant-based bio-fabrics.
When it arrives in 2013, the Fit EV will only be available in select markets in California and Oregon, and only via a 3-year, $399 per month lease program. Honda says the eventual price will be $36,225, before any federal and state tax credits. Six additional East Coast markets will be added in 2013.
