2012 Honda Jazz EV Concept Revealed

Honda is wasting no time in its pursuit of Toyota as a leader in the green segment. Following October's unveiling of the Jazz Hybrid, Honda has this week revealed the next step: the concept version of the 2012 Honda Jazz EV.

To be sold in Japan under its local 'Fit' name, the electrified Jazz shown at LA this week is a concept that Honda says "hints strongly" at the styling of the production Jazz EV that will debut in 2012.

Powered by a coaxial electric motor, the Jazz EV concept offers a driving range of 160km (quickly becoming a benchmark for pure electric vehicles), with a top speed of 145km/h.

As with Honda's CR-Z sports hybrid, the Jazz EV will feature a three-mode E-Drive system: Economy, Normal and Sport. Honda says that Economy mode will offer as much as a 17 percent increase in driving range. 

Switching to Sport mode will, according to Honda, offer a power and torque response similar to a 2.0 litre petrol engine.

"Honda's long history with electromotive technologies has enabled us to understand customer requirements," Takanobu Ito, Honda President and CEO said.

"In Honda's view, an electric vehicle must offer great utility and be fun to drive. Fit EV's urban commuting capability will be a perfect addition to the full-function mobility of the plug-in hybrid and FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle."

On the styling front, the Jazz EV concept gets a new front bumper and grille cover, along with unique wheels, modified headlights and taillights and a recharge point in the front left quarter panel.

Inside, Honda has included a number of "interactive coaching systems" to assist and guide the driver in optimising battery use, including a special display that suggests shutting off air-conditioning to conserve power.