While the Tesla Motors is the only U.S. automaker selling highway-capable electric vehicles (EVs) at this time, several other automakers plan to have EVs available to the motoring public.
The Tesla Roadster, which accelerates from 0-60 in 3.7 seconds, yet produces zero tailpipe emissions, created quite a bit of buzz in the auto industry, and opened the door to a new generation of electric-only vehicles. (www.teslamotors.com)
Other EVs set to hit the streets include:
• The Nissan LEAF, an electric car announced by Nissan in 2009 and expected to be marketed in North America, Europe and Japan, beginning in late 2010. (www.nissanusa.com/leaf-electric-car)
• The Lightning Car Company is the UK’s first electric GT sports car manufacturer combining classic British sports car design with racing car technology and state-of-the-art battery power and electric
motor innovations. According to its designers, the Lightning vehicle has been developed with exhilarating performance in mind. (www.lightningcarcompany.com)
• ZAP’s Alias EV is a three-wheeled vehicle powered by an array of lithium batteries. The Alias can top 75 mph on the highway and travel more than 100 miles on one charge. Production is expected to begin in late 2010. (www.zapworld.com)
• Volkswagen, which premiered its EV concept, the E-Up!, at the Frankfurt Auto Show last fall, expects it will have a production model available in 2013. (www.vw.com)
Cover art courtesy of Tesla Motors