Freyr Gunnar
> La Vecchia claims that the updated car's flow battery can power the motor to a tune of 1,000 hp (746 kW)
Considering that 1) the average cyclist develops about 100W, we're talking almost 7,500 cyclists, and 2) the average speed in the city is about 20km/h (15mph), it's crazy.
> Perhaps that's also why estimated top speed has plummeted from 236 mph (380 km/h) to 186 mph (300 km/h).
There isn't a country in the world that offers open streets where people can actually drive that fast*. So what's the point?
Interestingly, the article includes no mention of the price: What's the point of building an electric cars that offers a big range if it's so expensive that only a tiny minority can afford it?
* Contrary to what a lot of people believe, only 1/3 of the highways in Germany have no speed-limit, and even there, there are just too many cars to drive that fast, and the roads aren't built to allow that kind of speed anyway
Steve Jones
Well it looks amazing. As for the performance/range claims.... best of luck.
kid-jensen
That''s the nicest piece of vapourware I've seen for a long time...
Maynbe they would make a more reliable income from selling posters of it...
Kevin Ritchey
I have to agree with the previous posts. Although using something akin to a ionized particle fluid as a power storage medium, the weight of said fluid will have to be compensated for with a high power output drivetrain. This still equates to having an exotically-built machine than few, if any could afford, much less drive effectively. It is not cost effective to build but only may prove to be useful in testing theories for future possible means of energy storage capabilities. Not hitting any garages soon anyway. Investors should steer clear of vehicles that could leak like an overused AA nickel-cadmium battery.
Kevin Ritchey
Addendum: I would appreciate having the kind of money to spend on ferro-fluid designed machines. Ever wonder where the funding originates from for the building of these vehicles? What does it take to make the capital investment in such things? That information would prove more useful than the end product. Write a story on that, if you would please. I could use the advice.
Buzzclick
Very attractive design. Lofty promises. The wheels are overdone and gaudy.
Bob Flint
Quarter the power, quadruple the range to theoretically 2,000 miles or 4,400 km offer it at with a efficient/practical body even @ $50k then see the world change...
Cyndysub
This is very interesting if it can be done. I wonder, what is the weight of these liquids and their flow dynamics. Do they incorporate flow rate baffles? What happens to the liquids on a full stop or on cornering. What effect does the cold or heat play on the liquids. What is the cost of these liquids? Nissan has said that by 2017 their leaf will have more range but we will see. The first company that pulls the right battery out of the hat will make more money on that than the oil company dinosaurs.
habakak
Sounds legit.
Stephen N Russell
Can Tesla build this under lisc, awesome. Id drive one, be cool with Tesla logo