EcoTorque CC1 Personal Light Electric Vehicle (PLEV)
The EcoTorque CC1 is a single occupant electric vehicle aimed at tackling the increasing CO2 emissions and congestion caused by commuters in large cities. This vehicle has a track width of 750mm which allows it to slip through traffic, like a motorcycle. However, unlike a motorcycle the occupant is completely enclosed, offering greater protection from the elements, but also in the event of a crash.
The EcoTorque CC1 is designed with the benefits of a small, nimble motorbike as well as greater comfort and protection that a car offers, and requires no more training or licensing beyond a standard driver’s license. The vehicle has a mass of just 375kg, with the battery itself weighing 84kg and has 18 kilowatts of power, which allows the vehicle range of 115km, with a top speed of 50mph. In order to eliminate the risk of tipping during cornering, the vehicle is designed to lean into corners. This is achieved using two hydraulic actuators that raise or lower the height of the front wheels, creating a leaning effect. All the steering occurs at the rear of the vehicle, minimising the interference on the vehicle bodywork. The narrow track width of the vehicle 750mm and short wheelbase of 1640mm means that the vehicle can achieve a turning circle of just three metres.