Portland State University was chosen for its environmental innovations, which include an Electric Avenue of charging stations on campus, where the fleet is located. Each vehicle has its own Blink InCard, offering access to Zipcar partner ECOtality’s network of charging stations throughout the Portland area.

Based on the conventional Honda Fit, sold in Europe as the Jazz, the vehicles offer a range of 82 miles from each charge, space for five adults and three driving modes, as in the CR-Z hybrid coupe, which prioritise performance or efficiency as required.

Jeremy Nelson, general manager, Zipcar Portland, said: ‘We are very excited to introduce Honda Fit EVs into the Zipcar fleet here in Portland. The new EVs add to the selection of smart and sustainable vehicle options Zipcar currently offers, and will help our members further reduce their environmental impact by driving on electricity only.’

An early pioneer of sharing hybrid and plug-in vehicles, Zipcar’s global electric fleet includes the Vauxhall Ampera in London and mechanically similar Chevrolet Volt in Chicago. Last year, the company announced Honda was to become its preferred manufacturer, with plans to expand its fleet of Insight hybrids as well as introducing the Accord Plug-in, Fit EV and new CR-V at locations across the United States.