Automotive

EV-maker creating an electric Corvette

EV-maker creating an electric Corvette
A stock Corvette, with a paint job similar to that which the G-Vette will be sporting
A stock Corvette, with a paint job similar to that which the G-Vette will be sporting
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A stock Corvette, with a paint job similar to that which the G-Vette will be sporting
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A stock Corvette, with a paint job similar to that which the G-Vette will be sporting
Genovation's G1 Ford Focus test vehicle
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Genovation's G1 Ford Focus test vehicle
Genovation's G2 electric car
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Genovation's G2 electric car
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For fans of Corvettes, few vehicles could be better than a sexy, slinky ZR1... except, perhaps, a ZR1 with no direct CO2 emissions. That’s what Maryland-based Genovation Cars is in the process of creating with its electric G-Vette. This isn’t simply a matter of just dropping an electric motor into an existing car, however. In keeping with the company’s green philosophy, the custom body panels are being made from carbon fiber and soy-based resin, while the carpet and floor mats will be made from recycled plastic bottles. The one-of-a-kind automobile will serve as a test bed for Genovation’s research into advanced lightweight materials... and you might be able to buy the thing once they’re done with it.

The G-Vette’s all-aluminum frame will be the same as that used for stock Z06’s and ZR1’s. The body is being fabricated by Pennsylvania’s Advanced Composite Products, which specializes in tricking out Corvettes. A rolling model should be completed by the end of October, at which point Genovation will add its own electric traction motor, battery pack and safety systems. Both horsepower and foot-pounds of torque are expected to be in the range of 600, while range is estimated at an ambitious 200 miles (321.87 km).

If Corvettes are a little... “too much” for you, Genovation is also working on a commuter vehicle of its own design, the G2. The two-door, four-seater will be primarily electric, but a bio-ethanol or biodiesel range-extending generator will be available as an option. Using battery power alone, the company is claiming an expected range of at least 100 miles (160.93 km). Phase 1 prototyping of the car has been farmed out to Tata Technologies.

Genovation's G2 electric car
Genovation's G2 electric car

Just as the G-Vette will be a test bed for future models, Genovation is currently using an electric-converted Ford Focus – the G1 – to try out components for use in the G2. It is also in the process of creating a long-range version of the test car, the G1R.

Genovation's G1 Ford Focus test vehicle
Genovation's G1 Ford Focus test vehicle

Farther down the road (no pun intended), Genovation hopes to offer “a limited production modern interpretation of a classic 1950's two seat convertible roadster,” the GSL. The hybrid vehicle will be powered by a nickel metal hydride battery and a six cylinder combustion engine.

Although the G-Vette is currently considered a one-off, Genovation would like to build more if GM will allow it. The company is currently seeking sponsors to fund such an arrangement. In the meantime, the one existing model may eventually be auctioned off, with proceeds going to an environmental non-profit group.

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7 comments
7 comments
Mark Petereit
Is there some kind of \"green rule\" that says electric vehicles have to be butt-ugly? I mean come on! The Corvette is a very sexy car -- so what do they do? Paint it ugly. Ugh! Why?
BigGoofyGuy
It is cool that the Corvette can be cool and green.
I love the black over green color scheme.
mrhuckfin
Sorry to be so skeptical but I have YET to see one of these high end exotic electrics either hit the show room floors or do what they say they will do? The Lighting GT comes to mind and quite a few others. 200 or 250 miles from them? Come on let\'s see one really do it!
jerryd
At least the Tesla did 300 miles so at least it does. I think it\'s the only one in production so 100% do what they say.
I agree a stock Vette looks better but the G2 seem good looking.
But what we really need is lower cost EV\'s that are more practical.
RecoveryTTA
Hmm, i guess well just have to see how there project does turn out. I don\'t think it could ever compare to the LS7. Now with that said, a electric motor with 600 Horsepower? Could be very interesting to see, i give them praise that they are trying.
mrhuckfin
jerryd, the Tesla only has a range of 200 miles and I don\'t count that one as it\'s had so many fits and starts and it just not affordable to most people, but I will grant you that there is one out there! But I keep hearing about so many others similar specs that just NEVER seem to make the light of day? :-)
Matt Rings
Would love this in RED. Awesome. Please also give it better seats, and a LCD computerized dash for monitoring power, regeneration, efficiency, etc.