Zap Releases Sketch of Attractive New 644-HP Electric Crossover SUV

SANTA ROSA, Calif. — Take that, Chevy Volt and Tesla roadster. The wild and crazy guys at Zap, the California electric-car maker, issued a sketch on Monday of their idea of the perfect flagship electric vehicle — one that is engineered by Lotus.

Compared to the toylike, quirky Zap Xebra, the sketch of the Zap-X looks like a most unusual combination of sporty and serious. It is being developed on the Lotus Aluminum Performance Crossover platform, or APX.

The electric-car maker describes the sketch as highlighting "the styling, performance and technology that Zap plans to incorporate into the Zap-X." The crossover will be equipped with in-hub electric motors that deliver 644 horsepower and a top speed of 155 mph, as well as all-wheel drive. Zap said by combining a lightweight aluminum chassis, a new efficient drive system and advanced battery management, the "goal" for the Zap-X is to be able to have a 350-mile range with a 10-minute recharging time.

"We believe that the Zap-X will become the most advanced, most practical and most appealing flagship electric vehicle to date and will revolutionize the industry, providing the driver with the enjoyment of a sports car and the practicality of an SUV," said Zap CEO Steve Schneider.

© Source: article on insideline
We need your comments below >>