FOLLOWING on from what I said recently about my doubts over single seat electric cars, the first pictures of Vauxhall’s latest un-named concept dropped through my e-mail.
Unlike the VW Nils which prompted my original concern, this one is a more practical tandem two seater which Vauxhall says should appeal to younger drivers because of its low cost.
What that low cost is we don’t yet know and other details are also pretty sketchy, but it certainly looks rakish and different and if the promise lives up to any possible production, I think it would sell.
It’s pure electric plug-in, but with a range of 60 miles and a 75 mile-an-hour top speed, it should be enough for the vast majority of journeys and also capable of the odd motorway trip.
One of the things which all car makers are striving for is lighter weight, because if there is less to lug around economy, performance and emissions improve.
Vauxhall claims that light weight helps this concept to be agile and fun, and it should certainly cost peanuts to run.
Interior
Not much is known about the inside yet except for the ‘practical’ tandem seats, but it will have to match small petrol cars for comfort and refinement.
The last tandem-seat car I remember was the twin cylinder petrol Messerschmitt bubblecar of the 1950s, with its side hinged aircraft cockpit roof for access and handlebar steering.
FAST FACTS
Vauxhall Concept
Price: N/A
Mechanical: Electric engine driving wheels via automatic gearbox
Max speed: 75mph
0-62mph: N/A
Combined mpg: 0
Insurance group: N/A
CO2 emissions: 0
BIK rating: 0%
Warranty: N/A
Marks: 7/10
Main rival: Mitsubishi i-Miev