Ibuki?

I agree, this sounds very interesting / encouraging! Mazda continues to have their head on straight IMHO (with the exception of quoting HP #'s) These pics look like total computer generations though, don't you think? I'd love to look over a show-circuit model!

Keep the faith Mazda! Light weight over pure HP, curves over straight-aways and value over retched excess.

Chris

On Wed, 22 Oct 2003 00:26:03 GMT, dommelen@REMOVE_THIS_TAGmiata.net (Leon van Dommelen) wrote in news: snipped-for-privacy@4ax.com:

The only thing I found a bit puzzling was the weight estimate of 2200 pounds, which is pretty much the same as the original at birth. I would have thought they might reduce it a bit aiming towards the Elise's sub 2000 weight. But then again, the cost trade-off might ruin the value. They have also increased the weight of the drivetrain with the electrics.

I like the hybrid nature, even if it is getting away from the simplicity factor, because it will likely increase the efficiency and increase the low-end torque at the same time.

Sort of on the subject of electric sports cars... did you guys see this?

There is a trailer with a gasoline powered generator that will turn this pure electric into a hybrid.

It ain't cheap. Pricing is estimated by Forbes at $220,000.

Joe

Now I did. :)

I did not see that one being offered. The only one I saw does a maximum of 100 miles on a charge, or 50 miles if driven hard, according to the manufacturer.

To me, it seems somewhat awkward, when going to a place 30 miles away, to have to ask a local there "Gee, can I charge my car at your house's electrical outlet at 10 amps for the next 12 hours? I need to return to Tallahassee."

And you do not want to know what is within 30 miles of Tallahassee (pretty much the same as is within about 250 miles from Tallahassee, in fact.)

The true sports car experience. You can enjoy it fully, not having to shift gears or other distractions. And traction control will prevent tires from doing such things as slipping. Especially with the weight of all those batteries keeping the car firmly on the ground.

They say "pricing will be between Porsche and Ferrari."

Of course, some people might *get* a Ferrari. Or even just a Porsche and save some money. :)

Leon