Pius concept breakdown (Via Modi Corp)
Electric kit cars have been around for the better part of 50 years with most being popular in the early 70’s (in the US) because of the gas shortage. Companies came out with some interesting designs back then, such as Sebring-Vanguard’s Citicar SV-36, which had a hefty 2.5 HP motor running off of a 36v battery pack (ok so it wasn’t really a kit car), while other individuals simply converted their vehicles to run off of electricity (which either out-right failed completely or looked like a ‘Franken-car’).
It’s on that note that Modi Corp of Japan has unveiled their new "Pius micro EV kit" for individuals who prefer their EV’s on the ultra-sub-compact level. Technically, the electric vehicle is intended for institutions as an educational tool to help teach the basic layout and function of its full-sized cousins. The micro-car comes in at 98.4 inches long, 48.4 inches wide and 34.8 inches tall with a top speed of around 22mph and a range of 15 miles (on a full charge). While the cost of the EV is still being determined, it should be out for the commercial market by spring of 2013 and comes with everything you need to build the car. The company states that perspective buyers also have the option of embedding components for scientific research if so needed. While the micro EV can be registered as a class-1 motorized bicycle in Japan, it still has the make-up of a full sized EV and can blow the doors off of Sebring-Vanguard’s Citicar.
Sebring-Vanguard Citicar, golf cart with doors? (via Wiki)
Cabe
