67 mpg Honda Fit Hybrid due in 2010

According to AutoCar, Honda will be adding a hybrid version of the Jazz – aka the Honda Fit on our side of the world – by 2010. The publication reports that the hybrid version of the Jazz/Fit will use the same mechanicals as the upcoming Honda Insight Hybrid which will make its debut next month at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

Sources say that the 1.3 liter gasoline engine mated to Honda’s new hybrid system should deliver around 67 mpg. Honda announced yesterday that it has teamed up with Japanese firm GS Yuasa to develop lithium-ion batteries for future Honda hybrids. We’re not sure if lithium-ion batteries will be substituted for the nickel-hydride batteries for the Jazz/Fit hybrid.

Honda says that it is hoping to sell 500,000 hybrids annually by 2010. Joining the Hybrid Insight, Civic Hybrid, and the Jazz/Fit Hybrid will be the CR-Z Coupe hybrid, which is also due out in 2010.

Source: AutoCar