2011 LA Auto Show: Honda

We begin with the offerings from Honda, a company known for their technological leadership in alternative energy and powertrains.  Honda was the first company to introduce a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle to the consumer market (albeit very very limited) and remains at the forefront of fuel cell technology. 

The Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle, originally introduced back in 2008, remains the cornerstone of their communications message at the LA Auto Show.  Displayed prominently under their corporate banner inside their booth, the FCX Clarity represents the flagship of the Honda alternative fuel models and the eventual future of their quest to develop the revolution in personal mobility propulsion. 

Honda also showcased the all new Fit EV, a competitor to the Nissan Leaf that is already on the market.  The Fit EV is based on the same body style as the compact Fit five door hatch and will be available in limited markets including California starting in 2012 and will be offered only for lease at a reasonable $399 per month.  Honda claims a 76 mile average range for the Fit EV in mixed city and highway driving, and can be fully charged in 3 hours off a 240v plug. 

In addition to the Clarity FCX and the all new Fit EV, Honda offers additional vehicles for drivers wanting higher mileage through an extensive offering of hybrid vehicles and one powered by Natural Gas.  The NG Civic is based on the popular Civic sedan body and offers cleaner burning power thanks to Natural Gas propulsion.  The NG Civic also qualifies for access in the Carpool HOV lanes and will no doubt be a popular choice for commuters who no longer are able to use the lanes in standard hybrids. 


Honda also offers a trio of hybrid powertain vehicles, including the Civic sedan hybrid, the Insight 5-door hatch hybrid and the CRZ sporty hatch hybrid.