Honda EN-V concept picture

The boxy four-seat EN-V is Honda’s latest electric concept car.

Honda has been a longtime electric car skeptic, doubting the ability of today’s battery technology to deliver a practical driving range. But it has joined global competitors in planning one to polish the company’s green credentials and to help it meet tougher fuel economy and emissions regulations.

The EN-V is Honda’s answer to Nissan Motor Co.’s upcoming Leaf electric vehicle, which goes on sale in the United States next year. Honda is considering its own battery-powered car for the United States by 2015, Japanese media have reported.

But the EN-V is no Leaf clone. The tiny, lightweight EN-V — which has trunk space under the front hood — would likely need a major overhaul to pass North American safety regulations.

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