Fit

Make
Honda
Segment
Hatchback

While the gasoline-powered Honda Fit continues to be sold in the US, its EV sibling has been out of production since 2014. That could soon change however, as a report by Nikki Asian Review suggests the Honda Fit EV could be making a surprise comeback. According to the publication, Honda will collaborate with Contemporary Amperex Technology, one of the largest battery-makers in China, to develop new batteries for a Fit-based electric vehicle. It will reportedly launch in China before the first half of 2020 but will also be sold in other selected markets.

A US launch hasn't been confirmed, but it hasn't been ruled out either. The new Honda Fit EV will reportedly cost the equivalent of around $18,000 in China and will use a small battery providing a range of 186 miles to keep the cost down. Honda is reportedly aiming to sell 100,000 units annually. If the report is correct, the new Honda Fit EV will be a significant improvement over its predecessor. The first-generation model launched in 2011 with a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 123-hp electric motor. On a single charge, it could only travel around 82 miles, so the new model could have over double the range as EV technology has evolved considerably since then.

The original Fit EV also took just under 15 hours to recharge with a standard 120-volt outlet. A 240-volt connection reduced that to under three hours, but the limited range meant it had to be frequently recharged, which wasn't very convenient. Combine these shortcomings with a steep price tag of $36,625, and it's hardly surprising the original Honda Fit EV failed to gain sales traction in the US. With a much better range and a more affordable asking price, the new model should have a better chance of succeeding.