TOWARDS A GREENER FUTURE - Honda Malaysia

BreakthroughIt took years of effort and a dedicated team to realise the first Hondaelectric vehicle, the EV Plus, which rolled out of the factory in 1997.The preservation of the global environment by then had becomemore pressing. Now, a decade later, the dream of owning an electricvehicle will soon be within reach with the innovative Fit EV.The charging stand for the Fit EV Concept is designed to be convenient andeasy to use. Driver simply swipes a card in front of the screen and connects thecharger to the vehicle to begin charging. Battery recharging is accomplishedusing a conventional 120-volt outlet that charges up to 12 hours, or using a240-volt outlet that charges up to six hours.Honda Fit EV ConceptElectric VehicleA DREAM REALISEDWhen Honda explored the concept ofbattery electric vehicles in 1988, thecompany had begun to envision an ageof “clean energy” in the 21st centuryalthough research in alternative energyvehicles was scarce at that time.“Honda’s long history with electromotive technologies has enabledus to understand customer requirements,” said Takanobu Ito, HondaMotor Co., Ltd. President and CEO. “For Honda, an electric vehiclemust offer great utility and be fun to drive. The Fit EV’s urban commutingcapability will be a perfect addition to the full-function mobility of theplug-in hybrid and FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle.”Using the same 5-passenger layout found in the Fit/Jazz hatchback,the Fit EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling forHonda’s upcoming production Fit EV all-electric vehicle, which willbe introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012. The electric vehicleincorporates a high-density motor derived from the FCX Clarity fuelcell electric vehicle and features a 3-mode electric drive system thatis adapted from the CR-Z sport hybrid technology.Adding to the fun driving experience, there is also the interactivecoaching system that helps drivers maximize even more batteryrange. Meanwhile, a pocket-friendly interactive remote linked to thevehicle enable drivers to check the vehicle’s state of charge or toinitiate charging.The Fit EV is part of the Honda Electric Mobility Network, Honda’sunique effort in creating clean vehicle technology, renewable energyproduction and energy management solutions for the benefit ofcustomers and society.The Fit EV Concept retains the sleek and roomy interior of the Fit’s5-passenger layout.Top: The console shows a special meter display that guides the driver inconserving battery power.Above: Drivers can choose between Econ, Normal or Sport mode to maximizeefficiency or improve acceleration.08 | with dreamswith dreams | 09