March 22, 2007 Announced only recently, the development of the ZAP-X Crossover vehicle in conjunction with Lotus is looking likely to produce a remarkable automobile. The compact-SUV design will feature all-wheel drive with in-hub electric motors capable to deliver 644 horsepower and a top speed of 155mph. By combining a lightweight aluminum chassis, a new efficient drive system and advanced battery management system, the goal for the ZAP-X is a 350-mile range, with a rapid 10-minute recharging time.
“We believe that the ZAP-X will become the most advanced, most practical and most appealing flagship electric vehicle to date and will revolutionize the industry providing the driver with the enjoyment of a sports car and the practicality of an SUV,” says ZAP CEO Steve Schneider.
ZAP currently markets an affordable city-speed electric car and truck called the XEBRA through its automotive distribution portal marketing. ZAP's authorized auto dealer network will offer sales, service and parts distribution for the lineup of vehicles being developed by ZAP and its strategic partners in Europe, Asia and South America.
The Lotus collaboration had such promise, too.... but just fell flat on it\'s face.
1, When the design needs to move to mass production, you need 100s of millions of $. The major banks/investors have so much tied in to the Oil/Car Manufacturing companies that No One will invest the levels needed to bring them to market.
2, All the world governments are dragging their feet over investment/tax breaks for EVs, again as they are owned by huge Oil companies and the employment of millions of car manufacturers keep their countries from bankruptcy.
I personally have seen 20 great designs that would only get better when brought to market, yet all we have is a Toyota Prius that in real world driving averages less than the best small gas/diesel cars. Even the car that Chevy made in 1997 the EV1 could do 70-100 miles on a charge, sell for $34,000 yet they are trying to make us believe that in 10 yrs the technology has not advanced and the costs would treble. Bloody Liars.