It’s a whole new race baby, and these days there’s more than one way to get your motor running. If you like the feel of a fine automobile or the speed of a motorcycle, but don’t like to pollute, you can have your car and drive it too with this new breed of uber sexy electric cars and motorcycles.
Get your Motor Running
OK, so they don’t come cheaply, but the new generation of electric cars are no slouches either. When it comes to speed and handling, they can certainly hold their own. Here is our resident expert’s favorite rides.
Mercedes E-Cell
This gullwing-sporting SLS definitely has the va-va-voom you need. The SLS’s power comes from four electric motors – one at each wheel – which deliver 526 hp and 649 ft.lbs of torque, putting the SLS E-Cell in league with most of your favorite super cars. With 0-62 mph in 4 seconds and on to 130 mph in 12 seconds flat, the SLS E-Cell has some power under the errr… hood?
Fisker Karma
This is the perfect combination of waste not, want not because this baby has EVERYTHING you need. The plug-in hybrid was rated by the EPA as having a fuel economy of 52 mpg which is the same as a subcompact. Driven by a pair of 120kW electric motors, the Karma produces 960 ft.lbs of torque and a top speed of 125 mph and can goes from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds.
Tesla Model S
Zero emissions and 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds put the Model S in a class of its own. With a top speed of 130 mph and a range of 300 miles, Tesla is one of the most reliable and well-seasoned manufacturers of electric cars.
Head out on the Highway
Like the wind in your hair, the sun on your face and bugs in your teeth? You don’t have to be a petrol-head to get your adrenaline rush these days as electric bikes step up to take your breath away.
Brammo Empulse
With a 6-speed transmission, its 40kW motor with pumps out 54 horses at 6,000rpm; Brammo’s Empluse is also the first electric bike to employ water cooling.
Lito Sora
With innovative design and styling the Lito Sora pushes the envelope. The lightweight carbon-fiber and aluminum chassis combined with the high-density battery make for a robust machine. No clutch and phenomenal torque gives you extra power gas engines don’t even know about.
Looking for Adventure?
Electronic powered scooters and bikes provide smooth transportation over a variety of surfaces. In addition to being a great ride and an amazing amount of fun, they are one of the most energy efficient ways to get from point A to B. They are one of the top emission-free alternatives as they do not require as much gas as larger vehicles. They are typically powered by top of the line batteries that do not negatively impact the environment yet still get you to where you need to be. Most major cities have an abundance of E-Bike and Scooter stores such a Scooteretti Ltd in Ottawa. Shop around your city and see if you find one that is right for you.
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I don’t wish to sound greedy … BUT … Lito Sora? Me likey. Me WANT!! Dare I ask how much these babies go for?
Hi Beth, it goes for around $40, 000
This is nothing new but the biggest struggle with electric cars and motorcycles has been miles per charge. However the first real competitor, at least in the motorcycle category is the Mission R. Motherboard did a great piece on it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1CSdYsJIWQ
Thanks Cornelius – great video!
Fisker Karma?? A ” new electric vehicle”??? Hardly! They have been bankrupt some time ago and in effect, no longer in business….