Venturi Astrolab

[pow]

The Astrolab's ultra-lightweight monocoque chassis is built of carbon fiber and functions as a safety cell protecting the two inline occupants. Photovoltaic cells are covered by a unique nano-prismic film that is designed to concentrate solar energy. A 21-horsepower electric motor is all that is required to drive the 617-pound vehicle.

Venturi says the vehicle can recharge itself while in motion and can store solar energy in its nickel-metal-hydride batteries. With a top speed of 75 mph and a range of 68 miles, the Astrolab is intended primarily as an inter-city commuter — albeit a fairly expensive one.

Venturi says it is scheduled to deliver the first cars in January 2008, at a base price of $117,000 plus tax.

As for the sailing connection, Venturi's press release observes: "A parallel can be drawn between Astrolab and a sailboat: Both advance silently while making best use of the elements provided by Nature. And the piloting of both makes for sensations unlike any other."

[pow]

And the Venturi Eclectric, which can run on solar and wind energy alone.

Sitting alongside its Fetish sibling on the Venturi display at the Paris Motor Show is the self powered Venturi Eclectic. Touted as an autonomous energy vehicle, the Eclectic can be powered independently of any natural energy reserves. It’s powered by a small 22hp (16kW), 50Nm electric motor, and is normally charged up by the 2.5 square metres of solar cells on its roof.

The Eclectic is designed as a daily-driver for urban areas and more closely resembles a golf buggy than an actual car. Designer Sacha Lakic describes the vehicle as a “modern, autonomous and intelligent automobile.” The beauty of the Eclectic is that when it stands still, it’s actually adding energy to its batteries. In regions where the sun doesn’t shine that often, the vehicle uses wind power to rotate a force wheel, which generates electricity topping up the battery.

Complete charge of the liquid cooled NIMH batteries provides a range of about 50km and allows the car to reach speeds of 50 km/h. Wind power alone can drive the car 15km after a full day of charging. If all else fails, owners can simply plug it into a mains unit at home. The four-seater Eclectic weighs just 350 kilograms and will go into production in June 2007 with a price tag of 24,000 euros. Initially, only 200 units will be made but if they prove popular a cheaper version will be produced starting from 2009.

More pics...

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/car-sho...nturi-eclectic/

I *love* the styling... particularly the seats. If Karim Rashid designed cars, this would be it.

[ZL-1]

Wow, do those two do laudry as well? :spin:

Edited July 3, 2007 by ZL-1

[aaaantoine]

Whoa, this one slipped through the cracks...