The Fit at Frankfurt

At the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, Honda again touted their Fit EV concept, along with promises of releasing a similar model to US and Japanese markets in 2012. Although the name may not remain the same, the Honda Fit EV Concept is very close to what consumers will see--a zero emissions vehicle that will garner enough charge for most urban commuters.

It's hard to stand out in a crowd, especially when you are all saying the same thing. While this year's Frankfurt Motor Show was all about energy efficiency and advanced on-board media connectivity, with the Fit EV and Plug-in Hybrid, Honda definitely showed up to impress.

Production versions of the Fit EV would be powered by a lithium-ion battery and electric motor--all based off the FCX Clarity Fuel-Cell vehicle. Honda says that the Fit EV could get a 100-mile driving range while still reaching a top speed of 90mph.

The battery can be charged in 12 hours when using a standard 120-volt outlet, but can be fully recharged in as little as six hours with a 240-volt conversion.

Just as exciting as full-electric propulsion is full-connectivity! The Honda Fit EV would allow drivers to constantly stay connected to the car via a smartphone, personal computer, or Honda's own interactive remote. Through this Honda remote, the owner will be able to check their charge, initiate a charge, turn on air-conditioning systems and even start up the vehicle. Honda claims it will also include standard Honda Satellite Navigation, with a friendly directory system to the charge spots nearest your location!

Even though the Fit EV is now nearly 2 years publicized, Honda's booth at Frankfurt did see some foot-traffic. On the heels of prime competitor Toyota and the famed Prius, Honda is looking to release plug-hybrids and EVs for 2012 model years to a more demanding market.

For more information on this year's green cars, check out the Web2carz 2011 Green Car Guide.