Mygreenwheels

Development of the ZAP-X seems to be moving along according to the ZAP website. I got a bit excited about it in an earlier article (if you check the spec below you'll understand why) and now it definitely qualifies as COMING SOON.

Recently, ZAP and Lotus Engineering announced plans to develop a new electric car based on the APX (Aluminum Performance Crossover) concept, which showcases Lotus Engineering's Versatile Vehicle Architecture technology that earned a European Aluminum Award in 2006. Yesterday, ZAP released designs for the ZAP-X compact SUV that will use this technology and CEO Steve Schneider said that developments are moving forward beyond his expectations.

"When I had first met with Lotus, I really had no concept of the magnitude of their vision, which is very well aligned with ZAP's" said Schneider. "Obviously Lotus Engineering is one of the world's premier consultancies and we are pleased to be working with them, but the scope of the project involving ZAP has expanded to a level I never anticipated and I am looking forward to announcing these developments soon."

Schneider noted that the relationship with Lotus Engineering, the consultancy for Group Lotus plc, was to explore a number of different vehicle concepts through a feasibility study. Lotus Engineering is carrying out a comprehensive research project for ZAP on the creation of a new generation of ultra-efficient electric automobiles from concept to production. Of particular interest in the project is the challenge of advancing the electric car market by incorporating new technologies that maximize consumer appeal. (I like the sound of that!)

The drive system alone is enough to excite driving fanatics, featuring an innovative all-wheel drive option with revolutionary electric motors inside each of the wheels, potentially delivering 644 horsepower and speeds up to 155mph.

An advanced battery system will enable the car to travel a range up to 350 miles between charges, with a rapid charge technology that can recharge the batteries in as little as 10 minutes.

Here's the preliminary specification:
 
Drive Train
100% Electric; 4 electronic wheel hub motors sporting an aggressive 644 horsepower with super capacitor energy bursts

Speed
0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with top speed of 155 mph

Mileage & Range
350 miles per charge; about 1 cent per mile; rapid 10 minute re-charge; 9,000 life cycles

Interior
Seating for 5 +2 with European ergonomic design; all electronic touch screen controls on-board carputer: Windows XP, Wi-Fi, Blue-tooth, High definition video, iPod ready, Fire wire, USB2 and Mini USB ports

Extras
Keyless bio-metric entry and ignition, Photovoltaic glass: thermoelectric, for heating and cooling, energy collecting windows and windshields to harness solar energy
* Performance, technology and equipment subject to change pending homologation

Standard Features
APX Light Weight Aluminum
Architecture Design
Electronic Braking System (EBS)
Rack and Pinion Steering
Solar Glass
Lithium Batteries (Bio-degradable Non-Explosive)
Power Windows
Power Door Locks
Power Steering
GPS
On Board Carputer with Full Entertainment System