Building on the concept of the Ampera plug-in, General Motors’ Opel division has unveiled a new two-seat electric vehicle at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Dubbed RAK e, GM says the concept could hint at a future production model.
Despite its futuristic appearance, Opel says that the RAK e has “production potential”. The concept is probably a little too radical to make production in its current form, but the idea of a compact EV makes sense for European roads.
Following the same general formula as the Volkswagen NILS, the Vauxhall/Opel is a minimalist’s take on the EV, offer seating for just two. The concept is also about the third of the weight of a typical small car, weighing in at just 838 lbs.
No word on the show car’s powertrain, but Vauxhall/Opel says the car is good for a 60-mile range and a top speed of 75mph. Opel says that a mere $1.36 will fully charger the RAK e’s battery pack.
“We want to develop electric vehicles that everyone can afford,” said Karl-Friedrich Stracke, Opel CEO, at the world premiere in Frankfurt. “The RAK e experimental vehicle aims to deliver pricing that even younger customers can afford. The RAK e has cool looks and production-potential.”
The RAK e derives its name from the 1928 Opel RAK 2 which achieved a blistering top speed of 142mph. Opel says the “e” not only stands for electric, but also takes up again the idea of ground-breaking experimental vehicles.
Live Images by Mark Elias
