It seems that a Smart Fortwo is currently being tested by the Canadian Government in order to examine the vehicle technology. The model is a conversion of the previous model (the one that didn't make it to the US) and it's equipped with lithium ion batteries supplied by Hybrid Technologies. The specifications for this model are quite good: 240 km range (150 miles) and a top speed of 128 km/h (about 80mph). The tests also include an identical layout installed on a Chrysler PT Cruiser. The electric batteries add 200 kg (440 pounds) to both vehicles.
Note that this lithium-powered pack has nothing to see with the current EV conversions offered in countries like the UK (where 100 of them are running on a special lease), where they are equipped with more conventional Sodium-Nickel-Chloride batteries that only add 60 kg (130 pounds) of weight to the gasoline counterparts. With this latter configuration, the EV Smart range lowers to 110 km (70 miles).
(If you wondered about the pic. Yes, I drove a Smart CDI on a gravel road, it served as a rural car for a few days).
Related:
[Source: AutoPresse]
Note that this lithium-powered pack has nothing to see with the current EV conversions offered in countries like the UK (where 100 of them are running on a special lease), where they are equipped with more conventional Sodium-Nickel-Chloride batteries that only add 60 kg (130 pounds) of weight to the gasoline counterparts. With this latter configuration, the EV Smart range lowers to 110 km (70 miles).
(If you wondered about the pic. Yes, I drove a Smart CDI on a gravel road, it served as a rural car for a few days).
Related:
[Source: AutoPresse]
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