Much as the battery range of electric cars is improving, most of them still aren't able to make long road trips on one charge. Given that this more or less limits them to around-town use, some people might wonder … is a full-on electric car really necessary for that sort of driving? The designers at Eugene, Oregon-based Arcimoto apparently don't think so. That's why they're about to officially unveil the 8th version of their electric motorcycle/car hybrid, the SRK.
- Arcimoto has been working on various versions of the SRK for the past eight years. Although the vehicle may at first appear to be a straight-up three-wheeled car, a closer look reveals two inline seats and a motorcycle-style handlebar with throttle and brake levers.
The 1,023-lb (464-kg) Generation 8 SRK is being trotted out before the public for the first time this Saturday (Nov. 14th). It reportedly gets an estimated 230 MPGe (1 l/100km equivalent), can go from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 85 mph (137 km/h). Power is delivered to the front wheels by two front-located motors.
The base model's 12-kWh lithium-ion battery pack will take "two humans and their gear" up to 70 miles (113 km) on one charge, while an optional 20-kWh pack boosts that figure to 130 miles (209 km).
Passengers are protected by a full roll cage, seat harnesses, and front and rear crumple zones. Buyers who don't want to be rained on can also opt for side panels with a built-in vertically-rising Eagle Wing Door. If they're more interested in using the SRK for deliveries, they can go for a package that replaces the back seat with an enclosed cargo area.
Because the SRK is officially classed as a motorcycle, it doesn't have to the meet the demanding safety standards required of a car. As advertising folk would say, "Those savings are passed on to you" – the planned base price for the Generation 8 is US$11,900. Arcimoto hopes to release it within the next year or two, and is already taking $100 deposits from prospective buyers.
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