The Fit EV will offer three driving modes - Econ, Normal, and Sport—where drivers can adjust preferences for speed or energy efficiency. Its fastest mode, Sport, will generate the performance of a 2.0-liter gas engine, Honda claimed.
The Fit EV's motors are based on the Honda FCX Clarity's hydrogen fuel cells.
Interestingly, Fit EV users will also be able to monitor the status of charging batteries through their smartphones or a special remote control. The Fit's dashboard display will also instruct drivers when to turn off peripheral controls, like air-conditioning, to conserve a dying battery.
Yesterday Honda also unveiled a plug-in hybrid platform tailored for a yet-to-be-named sedan. According to a press release, the platform is "compatible with daily driving habits" such as short, frequent trips and long-distance driving capability. It can run 10-15 miles between charges and at a maximum speed of 62 mph. The platform incorporates a lithium-ion battery and a 120 kW electric motor.
Both the Fit EV and the hybrid platform will be introduced in the U.S. and Japan in 2012.
Not to be outdone, Toyota unveiled a second generation, all-electric version its RAV4 sports-utility vehicle powered by Tesla-manfactured lithium metal oxide batteries. Like the Fit, Toyota's SUV will be able to run 100 miles between charges.
The first RAV4 EV was launched in 1997 to meet California's zero-emissions mandate, but has sold less than 1,500 vehicles, according to EnergyEfficiencyNews.com.
The Toyota RAV4 EV is also slated for release in 2012.
Saab and Kia also showcased upcoming electric vehicles. The Kia Optima Hybrid, featuring Kia's own powertrain and a lithium polymer battery developed with LG Chem, will go on sale next year. Saab's 9-3 ePower, the company's first electric vehicle, has a projected cruising range of 200 kilometers. A small batch of the EV wagon will be launched in Sweden next year, the company said in a statement.
Source: www.pcmag.com
