Guangqi Honda to begin producing EVs this year

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai January 12) - While rival Dongfeng Nissan is still facing numerous setbacks in attempts to manufacture the Leaf electric in China, Guangqi Honda's domestic electric vehicle plans are much more secure. According to a statement made by Sales Director He Xianqing during an interview with International Finance News, the joint venture will begin manufacturing EVs in the country by the end of the year. The first EVs will be destined for southern cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hangzhou.

The CR-Z and Fit (pictured) hybrids will be among Guangqi Honda's first EV offerings. In fact, Honda, in partnership with GAC and the city of Guangzhou, held a test drive event for the lithium ion battery-powered Fit last November.

Due to the discrepancies in manufacturing traditional fuel-powered vehicles and EVs, the joint venture still needs some time before its assembly lines are fully prepared to produce the new vehicles.