Electric car "beats" Ferrari & Porsche

[old.user4556]

In performance perhaps, definitely the shape of things to come.

http://www.pluginamerica.com/media/Wrightspeed.wmv

Wrightspeed has launched an electric version of the Ariel Atom that hits 60mph from rest in a mere three seconds.

The company's an early-stage Silicon Valley-based startup using hat is calls ‘ultra clean technology’ to produce highly energy-efficient performance cars.
Wrightspeed has constructed a proof-of-concept prototype, the X1 whose energy consumption is equivalent to 170mpg. The Wrightspeed X1 uses Lithium-ion batteries and a high-power electric motor to give three major benefits:

* Energy efficiency equivalent to 170 mpg
* Fast, accurate and precise control of torque (no clutch, torque converter or gears needed) which creates a new and very satisfying driving experience in an extremely fast car.

It uses a 3-phase AC induction motor delivering 236bhp and 182lb-ft of torque and redlining at 13,300rpm. It weighs under 700Kg and drives via a Quaife limited slip differential.
Other features include:

* Four-piston Alcon front calipers
* Dymag Magnesium Alloy wheels
* inboard Bilstein race dampers, Eibach 2-stage springs
* steering: rack and pinion, 1.5 turns lock-lock
* Lithium Ion battery pack

According to Wrightspeed, the X1 prototype proves that extreme performance vehicles can also be extremely efficient – if they use advanced technology drivetrains. And it's clean -- as long as the electricity comes directly from the sun...