Oregon picked as Honda Fit EV test market

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The Honda Fit EV will debut in just two markets next summer — California and Oregon.

Citizens of just two states will get to drive Honda's newest electric vehicle — the Fit EV — that debuted last week at the Los Angeles Auto Show. And Oregon is one of them.

The 2013, Honda Fit EV will roll out next summer in test markets in California and Oregon. The car boasts technology to support a full battery charge in just three hours and a 120-mile in-city driving range.

Manufacturer's suggested retail price is listed at $36,625 — but consumers won't be able to buy one. For the first years of the launch, Honda will offer the cars for lease, not sale.

"We think that's the best direction to go with this technology," said Jessica Fini, Honda spokeswoman. "It offers affordability and reliability for customers."

Fini said Oregon was chosen as a test market for its "leadership in sustianability" and its "green-thinking" citizenry.

She describes Honda's approach to the electric car market as slow and steady. Just 1,100 Fit EVs will hit the road in the next two to three years.

During its debut in Los Angeles, industry watchers applauded the car's arrival in the U.S. but expressed surprise at the car's relatively high price point. Car and Driver noted that the car is very similar to the concept debuted at last year's auto show, and docked points for minimal headroom.

The Fit will offer three driving modes — sport, eco and normal — to allow drivers to choose performance over efficiency when the occasion calls for it.

Oregon drivers interested in the car should visit fitev.honda.com to register their interest in a launch lease.

Oregon is a leader in EV charging infrastructure and has been tapped as a launch market for a range of electric cars in recent years, including the Nissan Leaf, the electric Ford Focus and others.

@SustainableBzOR | christinawilliams@bizjournals.com | 503.219.3438