Peraves E-Tracer Announces Entry Into 2010 Automotive X-Prize

The Automotive X-Prize is a series of events and programs whose purpose is to inspire a new generation of viable, safe, affordable and super fuel-efficient vehicles. In September of this year, a number of applicants will compete in three events totaling $10 million in prize money.

One of the most innovative entries for this year’s Auto X-Prize is Peraves E-Tracer, an aerodynamics combination of the motorcycle and the automobile propelled by 204hp of electric energy. Sure to make heads spin, we’ll leave it to the consumer to decide whether the enclosed two-passenger motorcycle is impressive.

The E-Tracer is the first electric-powered vehicle produced by the Swiss manufacturer Peraves. The E-Tracer is powered by a single, yet powerful electric motor capable of producing 162 foot-pounds of torque instantly. The streamline shape of the E-Tracer enables it to pierce the air around the chassis attributing to only a .19 drag coefficient, which is twice as aerodynamic as our domestically produced electrically-powered Ford Escape Hybrid. Due to the feather light chassis design accompanied by 150 kilowatt of electric motor energy, the E-Tracer is able to achieve a sub-four second 0-60 mph time and an electronically limited top speed of 150 miles per hour.

Not only does the vehicle drive fast, it will be able to compete with the internal combustion engine in efficient long-distance driving as well. With a 20 kWh electric supply of lithium-ion batteries, the E-Tracer can traverse 186 miles of blacktop at 60mph on a full-charge and will generously leaves you with a 20-mile reserve if you missed the last electric plug-in station.

In a year’s time, the E-Tracer should be available to the public for purchase. The radical design and peak efficiency of the vehicle comes at a steep cost of approximately $108,000. That is, unless you are interested in next year’s planned Ultra-Sport E-Tracer with an available 268hp!

Source: Peraves