the all-electric ‘very light car’ by edison2
US-based vehicle research lab and manufacturers edison2 have created an all-electric prototype of their ‘very light car‘, whose one-cylinder combustion model was the winner of the 2011 X prize for innovation in the sector of ‘energy and environment’.
the four-passenger vehicle was accredited by the environmental protection agency (EPA) as attaining 245 miles per gallon equivalent for the stringent 5-cycle method test (delivering a combined 350mpge in the standard test), almost three times that of the best market models. the car fully charges from ordinary household outlets within six hours, enabling a range of 114 miles.
composed of a steel tube frame with an aluminum-based exterior, the vehicle features an aerodynamic body design and simple, stripped down interior; structural components have likewise been redesigned for strength and low weight, and the vehicle measures in at 1031 pounds (468 kg). adapting innovations derived from racing, the ‘very light car’ features wheels outside the main body structure and a shape that minimizes the potential for direct impact.
a prototype of the vehicle
front view with doors elevated
profile view
three-quarters front view from right
via engadget
