22 Jul 08 12:13
Video: Nice at the British Motor Show
The Nice Super Light Electric Concept EV is a research project concept, produced in collaboration with a team from Cranfield University.
It looks a little like a Smart Roadster, with snub nose (no need for a long bonnet, as there's no engine), scissor-opening doors and slightly odd twin circular headlamps.
It's not about the styling, though: this concept is an experiment in ultra-efficiency. It weighs just 400kg - including its lithium-ion batteries - thanks to carbon-fibre panels and components - and with no transmission or differential, there are no frictional losses. The twin electric motors drive each of the rear wheels directly, and the whole system runs at over 95% efficiency. There's even the chance to fit stability control, traction control and steering assistance, should this form the basis of a road-going vehicle.
Check out the rest of our British Motor Show coverage.
