- Pininfarina unveils a running prototype of its Nido EV.
- The Nido first debuted as a concept in 2004.
- At just over 114 inches long, the Nido EV is slightly larger than a Smart Fortwo.
TURIN, Italy — Pininfarina says its two-passenger Nido EV is built on a modular platform that eventually could accommodate a range of larger hybrid and pure electric vehicles, including a pickup and a small van.
The running prototype is an update of the highly acclaimed 2004 Pininfarina concept. It is being displayed as part of the company's ongoing 80th-anniversary celebration.
The latest version of the Nido employs a tubular steel frame, although Pininfarina says the plan is to switch to a flexible aluminum space frame that can be adapted to several different sizes and body styles that can seat two or four persons.
At just over 114 inches long, the Nido EV is slightly larger than a Smart Fortwo. The two-seater features a rear-mounted 30-kW electric motor, although the platform is designed to accept a hybrid drivetrain with a front-mounted gasoline or diesel engine.
The Nido EV is fitted with a Zebra Z5 Ni-NaCl battery pack, which provides a range between charges of 87 miles. Top speed is electronically limited to 75 mph.
Inside Line says: While the development looks intriguing, there are no production plans. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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ed124c says:
08:13 AM, 05/25/2010
A Tata Nano with style.
delraylocal says:
08:00 AM, 05/25/2010
Ahh great an over priced Italian golfcart.
Green is so lame!