Indian electric carmaker Reva has unveiled a lithium-ion battery version of the REVAi (G-Wiz i in the UK) city run-around that promises to extend its range and speed up charging times.
The REVA L-ion has been fitted with the new lithium-ion power train, increasing its range to 75 miles – a 50% improvement on the existing model.
It might not sounds like much, but according to the UK Government’s recent King Review of low carbon cars, over 90% of car journeys are less than 25 miles and 97% are less than 50 miles.
Reva says its own data, based on the driving habits of customers in 20 cities worldwide, also indicates that the REVA L-ion could be used for 95% of all car journeys without needing to be recharged.
But Reva’s new lithium-ion battery can be recharged in a just hour in special fast charging stations, says the company. Organisations will be able to lease or buy the charging stations where constant use of vehicles is required.
“The introduction of fast charge stations really opens up the market to reach new customers and increase the availability of electric vehicles,” says Chetan Maini, Reva’s deputy chairman and chief technology officer.
“Local authorities and businesses can now create the charging and parking infrastructure necessary to make zero- emission personal transport an everyday reality,” he adds.
Alternatively, the REVA L-ion can be recharged using ordinary mains electricity – but it takes around six hours to recharge the battery fully.
The car can reach a top speed of 50 mph and has better acceleration, says the company. The lithium-ion battery also has much improved performance in cold weather and a longer operating life.
The new vehicle will be available for pre-order next month in UK, Ireland, France, Spain, Belgium, Norway, Cyprus and Greece, with delivery expected in May. Reva also plans to expand distribution across the rest of Europe in the coming year.
Prices have yet to be announced, but if they are in the same ballpark as the existing model at £7995 or $9000 it will seriously undercut other electric vehicle options. Reva says it will also launch a kit to upgrade existing lead acid powertrain models to the lithium-ion powertrain later in the year.
Meanwhile, Indian competitor Tata Motors is reputedly considering developing a hybrid version of its Nano – touted as the ‘People’s car’. Production problems have delayed the release of the $2500 car, which was due to be available in India by the end of 2008.
Reports say Tata is in discussions with Bosch to develop a micro-hybrid system, which would feature a start-stop system to turn off the car when idling, reducing fuel use and emissions.
Another new electric vehicle, the four-seater Mitsubishi i MiEV, which has a range of 100 miles and a top speed of 87 mph, is also due to be available this year.