The Honda Fit's standard gasoline version uses a 12-volt lead-acid battery. Hybrid variants use a high-voltage traction battery, with NiMH in older Jazz Hybrids and Li-ion in newer e:HEV models.
The standard Fit: a 12-volt battery
The conventional Honda Fit relies on a 12-volt auxiliary battery to start the engine and to run lightning, infotainment, and other electronics when the vehicle is off. This battery is typically a traditional lead-acid type, with some markets offering upgraded AGM options for improved longevity.
Hybrid and Jazz (Fit) variants: a high-voltage battery
Hybrid versions of the car use a separate high-voltage battery to power electric motors as part of Honda’s hybrid system. The exact chemistry has evolved with model year and market:
- Early Jazz/Fit Hybrids (IMA-era) used a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) high-voltage battery.
- Newer Jazz e:HEV / Fit Hybrid models use a lithium-ion (Li-ion) high-voltage battery as part of Honda's i-MMD system.
Note that battery type and capacity can vary by market and model year. Always check the owner's manual or a specific VIN for precise specifications.
Additional context
Hybrids combine the internal combustion engine with electric motors, and the high-voltage battery is not the same as the 12V battery that starts the engine. The 12V system remains essential for lights, infotainment, and other electronics even when the car is using electric drive.
Summary
In short, the Honda Fit’s non-hybrid version uses a 12-volt lead-acid battery, while hybrid variants rely on a separate high-voltage battery whose chemistry has shifted from NiMH in older hybrids to Li-ion in newer e:HEV models. Market and model-year differences apply, so verify specifics for your vehicle.