|
The Morgan LifeCar Lives!
The Morgan LifeCar has been spent several years in the making, but
finally a prototype has come to life at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show.
Like a laboratory project from Dr. Frankenstein, the engineers at
Morgan have turned the last bolt and their wooden-framed vehicle
now lives and breathes.
|
|
Morgan LifeCar
|
Powered by a small, fuel cell built by British defense contractor
QinetiQ, the Morgan LifeCar nonetheless has plenty of life as it
is based upon the Aero 8 as has a set of ultracapacitors to help
kick it on the road. The exterior is made from a very light aluminum
alloy and the interior is full of classy polished wood and brushed
aluminum.
The two-seater is based upon the concept that a zero emission vehicle
should also be fun to drive. By using its small fuel cell and ultracapacitors,
the Morgan LifeCar can accelerate from 0 - 60 mph in just 7 seconds
and it has a top speed of 90 mph.
With a range of around 200 - 250 miles (depending upon usage),
this hydrogen hybrid has an electric motor in each wheel for exceptional
handling and also uses regenerative braking to recharge the electrical
system. The Morgan LifeCar is estimated to have cost around $3.7
million to built, including some subsidies by the UK government.
Other project partners in the building of the LifeCar include Oxford
University, Oscar Automotive, Linde AG and Cranfield University.
Critics note the odd looks and minimalist interior of the vehicle,
but all the while Morgan is saying, "Hey, get a LifeCar!"
I couldn't agree more.
|
