SIM-Drive’s 351km-range EV with 5.4s 0 – 100 km/h performance
28 March 2012
Stephen Munday of Integrity Exports reports that the latest iteration of EV development from Keio University spin-out SIM-Drive (earlier post), the SIM-WIL, has the exterior dimensions of a B-segment compact with the interior space of an E-segment sedan, offers 351 km (218 miles) of range, and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.
The SIM-WIL is the latest iteration of EV development for SIM-Drive, who are looking to get the final production model on sale in 2014.
Not only does the SIM-WIL provide a working test bed for the future production car, but it also showcases SIM-Drive’s technology—their own design of in-wheel motors—as well as techniques to incorporate as many components as possible into the frame of the car itself. These technologies free up as much of the interior space of the car for the passengers.
With this second generation prototype, the SIM-WIL, undergoing testing, SIM-Drive is now turning its attention to the infrastructure that needs to accompany the uptake of the vehicles themselves in order to make electric cars a viable option. In this regard it is joining with companies not traditionally associated with EV development, such as Sekisui House (home construction) and Mitsui Fudosan (real estate) to focus on three key areas of smart homes, smart grids and smart cities. This new phase is scheduled to be complete by the end of March 2013.
quite a few pictures of this car on the web, it looks like a VW Bug Limo conversion with an aereo kit :)
Posted by: Herm | 28 March 2012 at 03:53 PM
When you click on the "reports" link at the top of the story, they have a video. It reminds me of the original Honda Insight with the rear wheel skirts.
Posted by: SJC | 28 March 2012 at 04:53 PM
This could become the first designed vehicles for effective use as an e-car. Less weight is the main key. Improved design and in-wheel e-motors is the way to have more cabin space for 6 in a small car.
One day, most electric cars will use this design approach.
Posted by: HarveyD | 29 March 2012 at 10:10 AM