Unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the Fit EV is based on a conventional Fit, known in Europe as the Jazz, and will be available on a $399 (£252.94) per month lease package. Honda said it use the car to examine market acceptance, and expects to manufacture 1,100 examples over the next three years.

It uses technology familiar from other Honda concept and production cars. The 123bhp high density electric motor is derived from the unit used in the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, while the selectable driving characteristics are loaned from the CR-Z hybrid.

The Fit EV also gains an advanced telematics system, allowing full control of charging and climate control features remotely via a smartphone or PC, and a specialised satellite navigation unit showing local charging points.