EN-V concept presented in Shanghai

GM and its strategic partner, Shangai Automotive Industry Corp. Group will be presenting at World Expo 2010 Shanghai the EN-V concept, a two-seat electric vehicle conceived taking in consideration the reduction of traffic congestion, parking availability, air quality and affordability for tomorrow’s cities.

EN-V is a short name for Electric Networked-Vehicle and was developed through the evolution of the Personal Urban Mobility and Accessibility (P.U.M.A.) prototype that was developed by Segway.

“EN-V reinvents the automobile by creating a new vehicle DNA through the convergence of electrification and connectivity.  It provides an ideal solution for urban mobility that enables future driving to be free from petroleum and emissions, free from congestion and accidents, and more fun and fashionable than ever before,” said Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group.

Three different versions of the EN-V have been created to feature at the SAIC-GM Pavilion at World Expo 2010 Shanghai between May 1 and October 31. Each version represents a characteristic that emphasizes the enjoyable nature of future transportation: Jiao (Pride), Miao (Magic) and Xiao (Laugh).

The concept vehicle is powered by two electric motors placed in each of its driving-mode wheels. The EN-V has the ability to carry two passengers and light cargo thanks to the dynamic stabilization technology with which it has been fitted and to be driven autonomously or under manual control.

The EN-V has its power provided by lithium-ion batteries that produce zero CO2 emissions that can be recharged in a conventional wall outlet using standard household power. It allows the concept car to drive for at least 40 km on a single charge, at a maximum speed of 40km/h.

GM and SAIC’s concept was developed having in mind today’s speed and range in urban driving, weighting less than 500 kilograms and having 1.5 meters long. The body and canopy of EN-V are built in carbon fiber, custom-tinted Lexan and acrylic, materials that are more commonly used in race cars, military airplanes and spacecraft because of their strength and lightweight characteristics.