X-Prize entrant exhibits eRev at Epic Expo, earns 275 MPGe
eVaro - Click above for a hi-res gallery
Vancouver just played host to the Epic Expo, an exposition centered around sustainable living, and one of the exhibitors there might be familiar to dedicated AutoblogGreen readers. Last year in New York, we introduced you to the alé by Fuel Vapor Technologies which, at the time, was good for 92 mpg. However, to win the X-Prize, vehicles must get at least 100 mpg and so a few changes have been made since then, starting with the names of both the vehicle and the company. Keeping the same acronym, FVT wisely removed the word "vapor" from their name and are now known as Future Vehicle Technologies and the vehicle is now known as the "eVaro." Of course, changing the name won't net you 8 mpg and so the 3-wheeler displayed in Vancouver featured a series hybrid drivetrain where once a simple gas set-up once sat.
The new configuration blows the old away in environmental performance, yet retains a similar motive performance. It is said to skedaddle from a stop to 60 mph in 5 seconds and can hit speeds of 135 mph. Environmental-wise, it can travel between 65 and 90 miles on electricity alone and attain 275 MPGe in city driving (15-40 mph) and 165 MPGe at highway speeds (45-75 mph). Lots of mileage claims are tossed about nowadays, but FVT has third-party verification of their numbers from Simon Fraser University. Hit the jump for a transcript of a letter of testimony from that institution explaining the conditions and instruments used during their tests. You'll also find a bonus video of Lacey Elliot from Driving Television learning about the eVaro from Todd Pratt of the FVT team.
[Source: Eco Auto Ninja / Future Vehicle Technologies]
Testimonial"
I attended a test session of the FVT eVaro on February 23, 2009. A series of test runs were conducted near Agassiz, BC on BC Highway #7, immediately east of Chowat Road.
All test runs were conducted between 1430 and 1730 local time. Each test run consisted of a 1km outbound leg, a 180 degree turn, and a 1km return. Battery voltage and current was acquired and logged during each run through the use of transducers and software provided by Motec Engine Management and Data Acquisition Systems.
Meteorlogical conditions for the test period reported at Aggasiz by Environment Canada show a temperature range from 10.0 to 10.8 degrees Celsius, winds were from the North between 6 and 11km/h, light rain though not reported by Environment Canada, was evident toward the end of the test session.
The section of highway used for the test session is a busily traveled portion of public highway, it is reasonably flat and the exact grade of the highway should be a matter of public record if it is required.
The accuracy of the onboard data acquisition system was verified both prior to the test runs and then at random intervals throughout the test session by comparison reading obtained using a Fluke 190 Series Scopemeter. The margin of error between the measuring instruments was very small, and the repeatability of the results was good.
The eVaro achieved an average of 275 mpge for city driving (20-60k) and an average of 165 mpge for highway driving (70-120k).
Randy Kelley
Electronics Instructor
University of the Fraser Valley
5579 Tyson Road
Chilliwack, BC
V2R 0H9
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Shock Me 1:43PM (5/15/2009)
This would solve many issues for me as a daily commuter without regular access to a plug. Sign me up.
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contact 1:45PM (5/15/2009)
this topic is worthless without cost!!!
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Snoopy 4:34PM (5/15/2009)
They actually did mention the expected cost in the video. 40 grand is the expected price. Apparently they're hoping that the extremely reduced cost of use will make it more enticing to purchase, even at that price.
Throwback 2:13PM (5/15/2009)
Good thing the X-prize does not take aesthetics into account. some of these entries are just plain ugly.
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Snoopy 4:47PM (5/15/2009)
The eVaro isn't the worst looking of the cars out there. In fact, I kind of like its style (minus the back end). I find it a bit odd that they went with the tubular style instead of going for a four wheeler (sort of like a mini-racer design). Maybe the three wheels being cheaper thing applies here in Canada too.
Ian 10:06AM (5/16/2009)
I like the design. It reminds me of the old Messerschmitt KR200 microcar, updated for modern technology. It would make a fine daily commuter.
jjcentral 2:18PM (5/15/2009)
These are the numbers I want to see. They have different standards for MPGe for hybrid EVs and can tweak the numbers how ever they want, but in this case it is nice to see "it can travel between 65 and 90 miles on electricity alone." Love that! This seems to be the VOLT's little brother.
I know people now will start complaining about safety and 4 seater bla bla bla, but for a guy like me who commutes in motorcycle often, this is a dream come true. I can now ride this even in the winter and my entire commute will be in electric mode without the tension of running out of charge.
Either way it is a winner. now for the pricing point, if it is under 20,000 I will buy one. If it is under 30,000 might think about it. If it is above 30,000 Forget it, back to my motorcycle.
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alexacoon 5:33PM (5/15/2009)
I imagine the high cost is due mainly to the cost of the batteries; how about something like a modern 500cc motorcycle engine? If my twenty year old standard motorcycle with no fairing can get 60mpg on the highway I imagine this would do far better. Around town the added weight might hurt it but I'm sure it would still be decent and I bet the price could easily be cut in half.
20 grand would be pricey for something so small but as a viable motorcycle replacement for much more of the year (living in New England) I would seriously consider it.
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nickoo 8:38PM (5/15/2009)
It's pretty easy to get near 100 mpg when it's only a 1 seater, does the X-prize have any requirements on passenger seating? Also aren't 3 wheelers, technically considered motorcycles by many state DMVs? Are motorcycles allowed to enter the X-prize?
I don't think the eVaro is bad idea though, a lot of people drive 4 seaters to work with only 1 occupant, but if the aim of the competition is to make a car that gets 100mpg, I think they are stretching the limits of what most people consider a car.
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Chris M 10:24PM (5/15/2009)
The X Prize has three categories:
Mainstream class vehicles must have 4 wheels, seat 4 or more people, and have room for luggage.
Alternative class vehicles are for those that don't fit in the mainstream class, such as 1 or 2 seaters, and 3 wheel designs. This vehicle would fit in the alternative class.
Demonstration class is for automakers to show off, it doesn't offer a prize or really gets involved in the competition, but it does get exposure for new products.
TIMMAH! 7:46PM (5/16/2009)
Should call them "eSquid"...
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