16 March 2010

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Lightning GT – electric cars

If you thought Britain was trailing the world in the green car race, then think again – because the Lightning GT proves that the UK too can be among the leaders of the pack. The Lightning Car Company, based in Peterborough, is focusing on the development of high performance electric sports cars, and its first model, the Lightning GT certainly meets the brief.

Quick links:

History of the Lightning GT
Environmental credentials of the Lightning GT
Lighting GT statistics
Future of the Lightning GT

History of the Lightning GT

The Lightning GT is the company’s first product and is based on an internal combustion engine produced by Ronart Cars. It is a two-seat convertible roadster that has four separate 120kW wheel-motors, which provide all-wheel drive and regenerative braking.

According to the company website, it has chosen the best drive system technology anywhere in the world with phenomenal torque and power capability worked into the wheel assembly. As all of the power is located at the wheel, mechanical complexities are eliminated and there is no need for a gearbox, drive shafts, differential, axle or prop shafts. This helps to make the vehicle lightweight, adding to its aerodynamic capabilities.

In addition, the Lightning GT uses NanoSafe batteries which are designed to work in temperatures ranging from 75°C to minus 30°C. Unlike standard lithium-ion batteries which are used in the majority of new electric cars, these do not have to be kept cool when charged or used, and don’t have to be warmed up in sub-zero temperatures. These batteries also have a life expectancy in excess of 12 years.

A standard single phase home type power source can be used to charge the vehicle, and this is available just about anywhere by using the onboard charger.

Environmental credentials of the Lightning GT

Above all, the Lightning GT represents a breakthrough for electric cars as they suddenly become a serious option for lovers of high performance vehicles. Previously these drivers were among the least likely to make the switch to greener cars – yet now they have a serious option as the vehicle can run from 0-60mph in just five seconds.

The vehicle runs on 100 per cent electric power and can be charged in just 10 minutes for around 200 miles of driving. As such emissions are limited. Of course, as with all electric vehicles, there is the issue of how the energy used to power the vehicle is sourced – the more renewable sources are used, the more environmentally friendly the vehicle will be.

The Lightning GT is 10 times cheaper to run than a traditional petrol vehicle – using a domestic power source for charging costs just 2.2p a mile compared to a whopping 26.4p for a petrol engine of the same size. In addition, the vehicle will be exempt from congestion charges and vehicle excise duty.

Lightning GT statistics

Here are some crucial statistics about the Lightning GT:

Charge time: 10 minutes.
CO2 emissions: None.
Range: 200 miles after a 10minute charge.
Top speed: 160mph.

Future of the Lightning GT

The company is currently accepting reservations for the first Lightning GT vehicles with deposits of around £15,000 – the expected price is £150,000. Orders are accepted for 2009 delivery with the company also looking into Federal certification requirements in order to retail the car in the US. Stay tuned to TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk as more information becomes available.