Japanese automaker Honda may not have stolen the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, but Honda did use the stage to present some of its greener prototypes, most notably, its EV Concept.
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Still without a proper name, the Honda EV Concept is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average commuter and utilizes the same five-passenger layout found in the popular Honda Fit.
When the production version of the Honda EV Concept hits the streets in 2012, it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor. The motor, derived from the unit found in the FCX Clarity fuel cell car, is efficient and powerful while remaining quiet at highway speeds (top speed is listed at 90 miles per hour), according to Honda.
Honda says the EV Concept will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge using the EPA’s LA4 city cycle and claims that range can be maximized by use of an innovative three-mode electric drive system adapted from the Honda CR-Z.
There’s still no word on pricing for the Honda EV Concept and the Japanese automaker remains mum on the vehicle’s rollout schedule. However, we’d assume Honda will follow the lead of most other automakers by launching the electric Fit in select states in 2012 ahead of a nationwide rollout a year or so later.
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