Californian electric car start-up Coda Automotive has opened its first consumer store in the Westfield Century mall in Los Angeles.
The firm which has yet to launch its sedan model, is hoping the new shopping centre location will help to drive interest in the brand, ready for when its first car launches in 2012.
"We’re thrilled to be opening our first Coda Experience Centre in such a consumer rich environment," said Phil Murtaugh, CEO of Coda Holdings. "We want to open dialogue between consumers, provide a stress-free purchase experience and ultimately accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs)."
The store will give potential customers the chance to learn all about the benefits of electric cars, learn about Coda’ own battery and propulsion system and sign-up for test drives.
Drivers can take a Coda prototype for a spin in the test drive area below the store, where they can also familiarise themselves with using a charger.
Coda’s electric model is a four door, five passenger sedan. Its electric powertrain achieves 134 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque and a top speed of 85 mph. A 36kWh battery pack has a range of up to 150 miles. The onboard 6.6kW charger allows the car to achieve a full charge from empty in just six hours. Reservations are open now with prices starting at US$44,900.
