Shanghai is in the grips of pre-Expo frenzy. Shanghai’s Finest are closing down all world famous adult entertainment establishments to present a clean Shanghai from May 1 to October 31 – no red rope treatment, except at the show entrance . General Motors, corporate citizen of Shanghai, unveiled a new electric concept car to up its image as a supplier of non-polluting cars tailored to keep the crowded mega-cities of the future green and clean. Did I say “car?” It looks more like an overgrown Segway scooter. Or something that escaped the Sunday Funnies, AD 1968 …
According to Reuters, “GM showcased the EN-V, or “Electric Networked-Vehicle,” at a pavilion that it will share with its China joint venture partner, SAIC Motor Corp, during the World Expo.”
The two-seater EN-V, will communicate “with other cars” (if so equipped) “to help avoid accidents and ease traffic in congested major cities.” But don’t worry, it will “not hit showrooms for another 10 to 20 years, and would require regulatory changes for it to be allowed on roads.” Even if it would, it wouldn’t get far: “The three versions of the EN-V, powered by electric motors, can go about 40 km (25 miles) on a single charge.”
What’s wrong with GM? Come on, BYD wants to get 200 miles on a single charge this year with their E6 – if they ever deliver it. Can’t you do better, GM, in 10 to 20 years, at least on the press release? America’s future is looking at you, GM.
FYI, here’s the inspiration for it:
http://www.smokey-stover.com/
Ugh. And they are apparently thinking of offering a Dale Earnhardt Jr. Signature Series option?
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/2172/1921/30428460001_large.jpg
Isn’t it sad that that they can’t come up with an original tape and stripe job after all this time.
If they made it spherical it wouldn’t be so tragic when it tips forward on heavy braking or upon hitting a bump.
BTW, is that the man of the future at the wheel? Why do so many these people of the future (Capt Kirk excepted) always dress in black (often with funny collars) and shave their heads?
It will be interesting to see if cars like this start to compete with bicycles and motorcycles in developing countries. I could see that happening.
It would be a better fit for me than the $40k Volt.
Are they going to put together a nice little song and dance routine for it?
Or just take it out back and shoot it?
He looks embarrassed to be driving it.