Like the regular gasoline-powered Fit and Fit Sport, the Fit EV has a surprisingly roomy and accommodating interior that offers comfort and versatile utility that’s a perfect match for urban driving. The stylish 5-passenger Fit EV interior marks the debut of a new Bio-Fabric seat covering, a new material that offers conventional softness and durability, but with reduced manufacturing environmental impact. Metallic interior accents further differentiate the Fit EV from its conventional gasoline-powered counterparts.
To help the driver operate the Fit EV with maximum efficiency, it has unique new instrumentation that keeps the driver clearly informed of the vehicle’s energy use, state of charge and estimated remaining driving range. Indicators also show the energy used by the climate control system and other electrically powered systems. A combination of analog and digital displays conveys this detailed information in a simple, intuitive way that allows the driver to concentrate on driving with minimal distraction.
And to give the driver maximum control over energy use, three different selectable drive modes alter the way the Fit EV operates. The driver can choose SPORT mode to get maximum motor output for greater power and responsiveness, NORMAL mode to balance power and range for typical driving situations, or ECON mode to reduce power output and adjust climate control operation to maximize driving range. To help the driver learn how to better manage energy usage, an ECO scoring driver-feedback system monitors driving style and displays how it affects energy efficiency.
To help the driver manage battery charging, a range of standard features provide convenience and control. The Multi-Information Display (MID) allows the driver to preset specific charge times so that the vehicle can be plugged into the power grid but only charge at the preselected time. This can allow the vehicle to charge in the off-peak overnight hours when energy costs are typically the lowest. In addition, an interactive remote control with a range of up to 100 feet lets the owner initiate charging (if the vehicle is already plugged in) or turn on the climate control system to allow power from the grid to bring the interior to the correct temperature without depleting the onboard Li-Ion battery. The interactive remote also has a display that shows the current percentage of battery charge, charge status, and interior temperature. For even greater remote capability, a free HondaLink EV™ smartphone app offers the same functionality as the interactive remote control, and adds many other features, including charge timing, climate control timing and current driving range.
The standard Voice-Activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with FM Traffic provides on-screen and voice guidance and has a database of over 10 million points of interest. The navigation system database includes the locations of public EV recharging stations, making trip planning simpler. The system also graphically depicts estimated one-way and round-trip EV driving range as concentric circles on the on-screen map (estimated based on the driving mode selected).
Comparison between distance to destination and estimated remaining driving range is done automatically and a warning is issued if charging is required. When the cabin pre-cooling/pre-heating function is engaged, the system also automatically acquires the latest traffic information just before departure. The Navigation screen also doubles as display for the rearview camera when reverse is engaged. Roadside assistance can also be called upon using the navigation system.
In terms of entertainment and connectivity, the FIT EV is well equipped with a standard 6-speaker 160-watt audio system that includes a USB3 audio interface and Bluetooth®4 HandsFreeLink® that allows wireless music streaming and hands-free mobile phone connectivity.
- Roomy, versatile 5-passenger interior with sophisticated controls and high-quality finish
- Extensive safety equipment includes side curtain airbags and front side airbags
- Bio-Fabric seating material
- Unique analog/digital instrumentation with intuitive EV energy use information
- ECO scoring system
- Multi-Information Display (MID) provides access to multiple information screens and customizable features
- Three selectable driving modes (SPORT, NORMAL and ECON)
- Interactive remote control with range of up to 100 feet
- Available free Smartphone app allows remote control of charging and climate control system
- Maintenance Minder system tracks service related items based on actual vehicle usage
- Manual tilt and telescope steering wheel
- High power 6-speaker audio system with Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC) and MP3/WMA5 capability
- USB audio interface
- Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® hands-free phone interface
- Bluetooth® streaming audio
- Standard Voice-Activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with FM traffic
- Remote charge lid release button
- 60/40 split-folding rear seat
Wide-Open Feel
A design goal for the gasoline-powered Fit was to create an interior that is not only spacious, but also feels like a larger vehicle from the inside. The Fit EV shares nearly identical packaging, with a low, forward-sloping instrument panel edge and compact wiper design for an unobstructed field of view for an expansive, relaxing atmosphere. Though the Fit EV is small on the outside, inside, it offers a generous 89.3 cubic feet of passenger space.
A sculpted cutline running from the front door linings to the front of the instrument panel provides a feeling of continuity and enhances the wrap-around feel. The front and rear door linings feature sculpted concave surfaces to provide extra room for arms and shoulders. The backs of the front seats are specially shaped and the roof peak is positioned directly above the heads of the rear passengers to ensure plenty of head, knee and foot room for rear-seat passengers.
Interior Dimensions
The Fit EV is classified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a small station wagon, and with its roomy interior and cargo carrying versatility, it more than lives up to that designation. The interior dimensions of the Fit EV are similar to those of the gasoline-powered Fit with the addition of a higher hip point to accommodate the under-floor placement of the 20 kWh battery.
Sophisticated EV Instrumentation
The battery-electric Fit EV is a unique vehicle, and as such, requires unique instrumentation to keep the driver apprised of the operating conditions, and to maximize energy efficiency. To do this, the instrumentation uses a combination of analog and digital displays. Vehicle speed is presented in a large digital readout at the top center of the instrument panel where it is easy to read and close to the driver’s sightline. Immediately below it is a digital display showing the estimated remaining driving range, which is constantly updated based on changing driving conditions, power usage and driving mode. Immediately below is a Multi-Information Display (MID) that includes an ECO scoring system, dual tripmeters, odometer and exterior temperature display. The MID also provides access to a range of customizable features that can be controlled via steering wheel-mounted buttons.
Large round gauges are positioned on either side of the MID and are designed to give the driver a clear and intuitive understanding of how battery energy is being used, and how to alter driving style and use of the Fit EV’s electrical accessories to maximize driving range. On the left, the analog POWER/CHARGE gauge clearly displays the energy being used to propel the vehicle, and the production of regenerative power that recharges the battery when coasting or decelerating. To the right of the MID, a large combination gauge shows the electrical power being used by the accessories. The opposite side of the same combination gauge has an analog EV Battery Charge Level indicator.
POWER/CHARGE Gauge
On the left side of the Fit EV’s instrument cluster a Power/Charge analog meter provides a real-time indication of the amount of power being used, or conversely, the amount of regenerative charging taking place. The Charge/Power meter provides clear and useful feedback that helps the driver operate the Fit EV for maximum efficiency. When the Fit EV is off, the indicator needle rests at the 6-o’clock OFF position. When the vehicle is on, the lower portion of the range marked in green indicates the amount of regenerative braking taking place. The upper blue portion of the range indicates the amount of power being consumed. The higher the needle position, the more power is being consumed. When the SPORT driving mode is selected, the blue arc extends to represent the greater motor power that is available in that mode.
Electricity Consumption Indicators
Located in the combination gauge positioned to the right of the MID, a pair of Electricity Consumption Indicators show the electricity consumption by items such as the headlights and climate control system. The top gauge shows electricity use by the climate-control system; the greater the energy use, the larger the size of the indicators. All other electrical loads (such as rear defroster, headlights, seat heaters and windshield wipers) are shown on the lower gauge.
Multi-Information Display (MID)
Positioned in the center of the instrument panel, a Multi-Information Display (MID) displays a range of data and provides access to customizable features. The MID is a versatile and handy warning and information readout that tracks and informs the driver of numerous important systems. The MID displays warnings such as door ajar, SRS, parking brake and TPMS. When the EV battery is running low on energy, the MID displays a “BATTERY CHARGE LOW” indication and there is a decrease in acceleration performance to maximize driving range. MID information categories include:
- EV battery charge timing
- Low energy indicator
- Warning screens
- Digital odometer and digital trip meters (2)
- Average energy efficiency
- Average speed indicator
- Elapsed time indicator
- Exterior temperature indicator
- Customizable settings
- ECO Scoring
- Timer charging mode
- Amount of energy recovered though regenerative braking displayed at power off time.
Low Energy Indicator
When the battery’s state of charge drops to 15 percent or less, a low energy-indicator appears on the Multi-Information Display (MID) matched with a warning lamp coming on within the Li-Ion battery charge level gauge. Along with the indicator, there is a gradual decrease in power output when in SPORT and NORMAL modes. Depending on how much charge is left in the battery, the powertrain output will drop as low as 47kW, which is equivalent to ECON mode.
Eco Scoring System
A unique feature of the Fit EV Multi-Information Display (MID) is a driver-feedback system that monitors driving style and displays how it affects energy efficiency. It also provides feedback so that adjustments can be made to operate the vehicle more efficiently. When the ignition is switched off, the ECO Scoring system keeps track of the driver’s history. So aside from the money owners will save by increasing their energy efficiency, they’ll also be able to compare scores with other Fit EV drivers.
Progressive Instrument Illumination
The Fit EV’s instrument system uses progressive illumination to establish a “dialog” with the driver. When the door is opened, the instrument brightness turns on at 10 percent – a “welcome” of sorts for the driver. When the key is put in the ignition (encircled with an illuminated ring), the instrument illumination ramps up to 100 percent in one second. When the ignition is turned on, the illuminated instruments and enunciator lights come on, indicating all systems are go.
3-Mode Drive System
The Fit EV is equipped with a 3-Mode Drive System that allows the driver to select between individual modes of performance for SPORT, NORMAL and ECON driving styles. The system is activated via three backlit buttons to the left of the steering wheel. Depending on the drive mode selected, output from the 92-kW electric motor varies. (See Powertrain section for more information.)
SPORT Mode
The SPORT mode enhances motor responsiveness and output. Both the ambient meter and the mode indicator around the Multi-Information Display (MID) illuminates red when the vehicle is in SPORT mode and a maximum of 92 kW of electrical power is available during normal acceleration . EV range in this mode is calculated and displayed.
NORMAL Mode
NORMAL mode provides standard settings for electric motor power and air conditioning operation. The mode indicator around the Multi-Information Display (MID) illuminates white when the vehicle is in NORMAL mode. At startup the vehicle will default to NORMAL mode if the vehicle was previously driven in SPORT mode. During normal acceleration, 75 kW of electrical power is available and the EV range in this mode is calculated and displayed.
ECON Mode
During ECON mode operation, the electric motor’s responsiveness is tuned for optimal efficiency and the air conditioning system reduces its overall load on the battery. During normal acceleration, up to 47 kW of electrical power is available (increased to 75kW under full throttle). Accelerator pedal action is optimized for reduced responsiveness. In ECON mode, the mode indicator around the Multi-Information Display (MID) turns green and the EV range in this mode is calculated and displayed.
Steering Wheel
The Fit EV’s 3-spoke steering wheel provides manual tilt and telescope steering wheel adjustability accommodates drivers of various sizes, with a telescopic adjustment range of 1.2 inches and a tilt adjustment range of 1.6 inches. Audio, phone and navigation controls are positioned on the left side of the wheel, and the cruise control switches are positioned on the right. All controls are positioned ergonomically where they are easy to reach and operate with minimal distraction for the driver.
Interior Materials
Every tactile surface, from the interior door handles to the seat controls to the instrument panel, steering wheel, shift lever and electronic controls, latches and lids are designed to be pleasing to the touch – and easy to operate.
Bio-Fabric Seating
In keeping with the Fit EV’s efficient, sustainable approach to transportation, this vehicle marks the debut of a new Bio-Fabric seat covering material. The Bio-Fabric Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has the same chemical composition and structure as conventional fabric seat covering and offers equivalent performance in terms of feel and durability. The key difference is that this new Bio-Fabric is now based on sugarcane-derived ethanol, not naphtha. The ethanol is produced using bagasse, which is the fibrous matter that remains after sugarcane stalks are crushed to extract their juice. Since bagasse is not a foodstuff (unlike corn, which is another source for ethanol), its use to produce Bio-Fabric doesn’t put added pressure on the food supply.
The Fit EV’s front seats are built with optimized springs and pad shapes. The seat surface and side cushions are designed to achieve a combination of seating comfort and solid lateral support. Rounded front seatback shoulders help provide an expansive field of view for rear passengers. The rear headrests fit snugly into the seatbacks when not in use to facilitate easy seat arrangement and offer an improved rear field of vision.
60/40 Fold-Down Rear Seat and Cargo Area
With its underfloor battery positioning, the Fit EV has a different floor shape than the gasoline-powered Fit and Fit Sport, and the rear seat arrangement also differs. In place of the four-mode Magic Seat® in the gas-powered Fit models, the Fit EV has a 60/40 split-folding rear seat with a hip-point that’s 35mm higher and 85mm further rearward that that of the gasoline-powered Fit. The seatback angle is reclined an additional four degrees, compared to that of the gas-powered Fit. The rear seat allows the Fit EV to blend cargo and passengers, and can fold down to accommodate larger items. With the rear seatbacks up, the Fit EV offers 12.0 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the rear seats. With both rear seatbacks folded down, the total cargo volume increases to 49.4 cu. ft.
Interior Storage
The Fit interior provides lots of convenient storage spaces, including 10 beverage holders and a range of pockets and compartments in the instrument panel, center console, doors and seatbacks. A dual glove compartment provides even more storage space, and includes a USB port in the upper compartment for the easy connection of an iPod6, flash drive or other compatible unit.
Automatic Climate Control
Climate controls on the Fit EV are mounted centrally on the instrument panel, just to the left of the Navigation screen for easy accessibility. A micron air-filtration system is capable of filtering nearly 100 percent of particulates over eight microns in size (the size of most pollen). It can also filter out approximately 40 percent of particulates down to 0.3 microns (about the size of diesel emissions).
To help conserve battery power, the climate control system can be remotely activated up to 30 minutes before departure while the vehicle is connected to the electrical grid. This allows grid power to bring the interior to a comfortable temperature without depleting the charge in the Fit EV’s onboard battery. This helps maximize driving range. Remote operation is available using the interactive remote, a free available smartphone app or a personal computer.
To help maximize driving range, the Fit EV’s climate control system is highly efficient and lightweight compared to traditional setups. A newly developed electric compressor and a lightweight and compact electric heater make up the all-electric HVAC system. In ECON mode, both the air conditioner and heater go into “energy-saving” mode. To help make the occupants comfortable while using less total energy than would be required using the climate control system alone, when in ECON mode, climate control power is reduced when the front seats’ heating function is on.
Audio System
The Fit EV is equipped with a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers including A-pillar-mounted tweeters. The CD player can also read CD-Rs loaded with Windows Media Audio (WMA) or MP3 audio files. A USB audio interface located in the upper glove box is standard and allows the connection of a compatible device or a flash drive. The system features Speed-sensitive Volume Control (SVC) that automatically raises the audio volume as the vehicle speed and exterior noise increases, and then lowers volume as the car slows. If desired, SVC can be deactivated at any time.
USB Audio Interface
A USB Audio Interface is located in the upper glove compartment. It can read flash drives and compatible digital music devices, such as iPods or iPhones that contain MP3 or WMA music files. It is important to note that only the iPhone, iPod video, iPod Nano and other fifth-generation or later iPods are compatible with this system. The iPod shuffle, mini, and older iPod models are not compatible. When an iPod or iPhone is connected, the Honda logo will appear on the screen of the compatible device showing it is ready for use. The iPod, iPhone or flash drive can then be controlled using the steering wheel-mounted controls or audio controls. Information such as song title, artist, album art and other information will appear on the Navigation screen. The system will also charge the iPod or iPhone while it is connected.
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®
The Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® interface is designed to offer hands-free operation for many Bluetooth enabled mobile telephones. The system wirelessly connects the driver’s cell phone to the vehicle’s audio system. This allows the driver to make or answer cell phone calls without removing hands from the steering wheel. The system is compatible with Bluetooth enabled cell phones that have the Hands Free Profile (HFP). A list of compatible phones can be found at handsfreelink.com or honda.com. The HandsFreeLink system offers a range of features, including full manual control, auto import of phonebook and call history, and a dedicated Phone button on the Navigation system head unit.
Bluetooth HandsFreeLink enables audio files to be played through the vehicle’s audio system wirelessly with a feature called Bluetooth® Audio. If an audio compatible device is paired it will be added as an auxiliary source on the Navigation system screen. This allows the Bluetoothdevice’s media to be played wirelessly by the audio system. Cell phone devices that support the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) and Audio Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) 1.3 allow the display of metadata for artist, album and track name on the Navigation screen. The vehicle’s audio controls for “skip forward” and “skip backward” allow for navigation from track to track.
Bluetooth HandsFreeLink is designed for easy use. After the driver completes a simple one-time “pairing” process to link the cell phone with the vehicle, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink can communicate wirelessly and securely with the driver’s cell phone when the phone is within about 33 feet of the vehicle. Once the driver enters the vehicle, the phone can be stored in a pocket, briefcase, purse or a storage bin inside the vehicle’s cabin as the call transfers information through the wireless telephone interface. Certain compatible cell phones can also transfer the cellular phonebook into the vehicle through the Bluetooth HandsFreeLink system. After the cellular phonebook is transferred, calls can be made by making selections from the registered phonebook on the information screen. Operational features include:
- Phone numbers of incoming calls are displayed on the Navigation display
- “Pick up” button answers the call and mutes the audio system
- Caller is heard through the audio-system speakers
- An overhead microphone picks up the driver’s voice while minimizing background noise and echoing
- Numbers with voice tags may be stored in the system’s memory
- To make a call hands-free, the driver first activates the system using the steering wheel-mounted fingertip controls, then speaks a preset voice tag
- Numbers can also be dialed by speaking the telephone number
- Automatic import of phone book and call history
- Up to six different compatible mobile phones can be paired with the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system
Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition and FM Traffic
The latest generation of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is standard on the Fit EV and features a 6.5-inch display and a fast 16 GB Flash Memory. The system also includes standard FM Traffic, which provides constantly updated on-screen traffic incident data for select cities that lets drivers choose faster, less congested routes to get to their destination sooner.
Unlike some other traffic data systems, FM Traffic does not require a subscription and entails no extra charges. The navigation system features more than 10 million points of interest and is integrated with the audio system. The voice recognition is capable of recognizing and inputting numbers, street names and cities, in addition to more than 700 commands.
Honda navigation systems have long been recognized for their simple, intuitive operation and extensive on-board database. When navigating freeways, a split screen design enhances on-screen information with a “map view” and “3-D” route visualization of freeways simultaneously – which helps make navigation information easier to understand. The navigation system is integrated with the car’s audio system, so driving instructions can be heard over the speaker system, and the voice recognition feature adds a hands-free realm of control to the navigation system.
The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System uses Global Positioning Satellites (GPS) in combination with detailed information from the vehicle’s Flash-based mapping system to pinpoint the vehicle’s location and to provide a host of useful mapping and route guidance features. The antenna can utilize up to 12 satellites from a network of 24 global positioning satellites. If the antenna is obstructed by a tunnel, a parking garage or a tall building, an internal gyroscopic system and a speed sensor track the location of the vehicle so that the map information remains current and reliable. The vehicle clock is independently controlled by GPS data, so when time zones are crossed while driving, the clock will automatically set itself to the current time.
The navigation system can be controlled by the driver through either the voice recognition system, the touch screen display, or by the joystick at the lower right corner of the screen. The voice recognition system works when the “talk” button (located on the steering wheel) is depressed. When spoken to, the system recognizes commands such as “find nearest charging station,” or “find nearest ATM” and can also recognize street names. The navigation system database includes the locations of public EV charging stations, including information on charging voltage. The system also graphically depicts estimated one-way and round-trip EV driving range as concentric circles on the on-screen map. Comparison between distance to destination and estimated remaining driving range is done automatically and a warning is issued if charging is required. When the cabin pre-cooling/pre-heating function is engaged, the system also automatically acquires the latest traffic information just before departure. The Navigation screen also doubles as display for the rearview camera when reverse is engaged. Roadside assistance can also be called upon using the navigation system.
The 6.5-inch LCD touch screen allows the driver or front passenger to choose menu options or spell out a word (e.g., an address, business name, place, etc.) through a touch-sensitive keypad. The keypad can be set to alphabetical or a QWERTY computer-style layout. Alternatively, the joystick can be used to highlight menu options or to highlight specific letters on the keypad to complete a word. A matte finish is used on the display to reduce glare and smudging. For data storage, the system uses a 16 GB flash memory that contains information for the entire United States.
Interactive Remote Control
An interactive remote control with a range of up to 100 feet lets the owner initiate charging (if the vehicle is already plugged in) or turn on the climate control system to allow power from the grid to bring the interior to the correct temperature without depleting the on-board EV battery. The interactive remote also has a display that shows the current percentage of battery charge, charge status, and interior temperature.
HondaLink EV™ Smartphone App
A special free HondaLink EV™ smartphone app offers the same functionality as the interactive remote control, and adds many other features that can all be used remotely, including charge timing, climate control timing and driving range based on the current state of EV battery charge. The app can also turn on the navigation system so that FM Traffic information can be acquired in advance of departure, making this information available to the driver for route planning immediately upon entering the vehicle.
Key Fit EV smartphone app features:
- Estimated range on remaining charge
- Charge timer setting (on/off)
- Charge timer scheduling
- Type of charger being used
- Percentage of battery charge
- Charge status
- Next scheduled departure time
- Departure time scheduling
- Climate control status indicator
- Vehicle interior temperature
- Estimated time of full charge
- Location of the phone (on map)
- Nearest charging stations within a given range from phone (on map)
- Range for one-way trip on full charge (on map)
- Range for round trip on full charge (on map)
- Roadside assistance call button
- Customer service call button
- Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Submit feedback to American Honda Motor
Power Windows and Locks
Power windows are standard equipment on the Fit EV and provide auto up and down operation on the driver’s window. Power door locks with a customizable auto-locking feature are standard. The auto door lock settings can be configured through the MID.
Keyless Entry System
Keyless entry is standard equipment on the Fit EV. The wave key design has an integrated transmitter in the handle with lock, unlock, charging port lid open and panic buttons.
Vehicle Immobilizer
Complementing the keyless entry system is a standard vehicle-immobilizer system. A special electronically coded key prevents the car from being started-even if a mechanical duplicate of the key is used. A transponder, built into the key, signals the immobilizer control unit that the key is genuine. If the car is hot-wired, or an unauthorized key is used, the vehicle will not start.