There haven't been a lot of practical self-powered cars yet produced.
OK, there've been none, and this isn't one either...but it's a step in the
right direction. The Venturi Eclectic has batteries that can be powered
by the sun, by wind, or by an AC outlet but gives you all the comfort
of, well, a golf cart, what with it not having any doors.
They've completely skipped the step where you make a car more aerodynamic for increased efficiency, but went all out on making it light (at 700 lbs unloaded,) which can be just important. Of course, the Eclectic only has a range of about 30 miles after the sun stops shining, and the top speed of 32 mph doesn't inspire much awe. But the multiple power sources are an interesting turn, as well as it's diminutive size. Frankly, the $30,000 pricetag is probably asking a bit too much, but they're only making 200 of them, so I guess they don't expect them to sell all that well.
More pics after the jump
They've completely skipped the step where you make a car more aerodynamic for increased efficiency, but went all out on making it light (at 700 lbs unloaded,) which can be just important. Of course, the Eclectic only has a range of about 30 miles after the sun stops shining, and the top speed of 32 mph doesn't inspire much awe. But the multiple power sources are an interesting turn, as well as it's diminutive size. Frankly, the $30,000 pricetag is probably asking a bit too much, but they're only making 200 of them, so I guess they don't expect them to sell all that well.
More pics after the jump
Via MotorAuthority (spotted at Engadget)
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Comments (7)
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written by rob, October 02, 2006
They could have put holes in the floor and the passengers could propel the vehicle Fred Flintstone style, Yabdabadooooooooo........
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written by Charles Brobst, October 03, 2006
Why couldn't they put the solar cells on a Prius and leave it at that?
I like the idea of it being plugged in.
What if you had solar cells charging batteries at home?
I like the idea of it being plugged in.
What if you had solar cells charging batteries at home?
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written by K, March 12, 2007
If you're going to be out in the weather you might as well ride an electric bike. It would be lighter, simpler, more aerodynamic, smaller, more efficient, cheaper, and wouldn't require a license.
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written by Chuck1967, May 01, 2007
The wheels alone hooked up to one or even four generators could make enough electric to power the entire vehicle even without the solar panels and recharge the batteries.
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written by Car Specs, April 07, 2008
This is not a bad concept. However, with such a light and open design, I think "K" is quite right.
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written by Tomas Molinari, July 05, 2009
\n This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
'>
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
is my email, apologies.
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