U.S. dealers are set to sell Chinese electric vehicles

[jpak]

http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060824/FREE/60821008/1041/MICROSITE

A little-known company, Miles Automotive Group, is importing electric vehicles from China. In the process, it is challenging two widespread assumptions about the auto industry.

One is that Chinese-built vehicles are a long way from satisfying U.S. regulatory requirements and consumer tastes. The other is that vehicles powered only by batteries are unlikely ever to provide full functionality.

"The skepticism is totally reasonable," says Miles Automotive CEO David Hirsch. "California is littered with charging stations" for electric vehicles that didn't meet expectations, he says.

Still, Miles has certified an electric neighborhood runabout for sale in the United States "to get a foot into the market," Hirsch says. And it is conducting certification tests of a highway-capable electric vehicle that uses advanced lithium-ion batteries. Miles says the latter will achieve a top speed of 80 mph and have a range of at least 200 miles.

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[Warpy]

1. They're little 3 wheeled mini trucks

that look like they seat one comfortably and two uncomfortably with room in the back for groceries.

They'd be great in cities, not so great in the country.

[unpossibles]

3. looks like a 4 wheeler in the article

I've driven 3 wheeled vehicles (in the city) - they aren't too bad once you get used to it.

[kurth]

2. Chinese cars running on Chinese lithium-ion batteries

Asbestos thermal protective passenger clothing standard on all models.

[mnhtnbb]

4. We saw the documentary "Who Killed the Electric Car"

and I highly recommend it.

I had no idea that GM had functioning electric cars leased in So. Calif and Az in the mid-90's. The documentary is fascinating--and depressing. It's definitely worth seeing.

[greenman3610]

5. you may make fun of these now..

just like people made fun of "Made in Japan" dinky little
radios in the early 60s.....