The Electric Revolution: Eliica - A Pioneer in Electric Cars

Unique ONES - In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, electric cars have emerged as formidable contenders, poised to revolutionize the way we commute and reshape the future of transportation. One such groundbreaking innovation is the Eliica, short for Electric Lithium-Ion Car. Initially developed by Professor Hiroshi Shimizu and his visionary team at the Faculty of Environment and Information Studies at Keio University SFC in 2003, and the Eliica represents a remarkable leap towards bridging the chasm between conceptualization and mass production in the realm of electric vehicles.

Here are a couple of 8-wheeled Eliica electric vehicle models designed by a team at Keio University in Japan with the aim of breaking the land speed record. (Picture from: Inhabitat)

Weighing in at a substantial 2,400 kg (5,300 lb) and accommodating a driver and three passengers, the Eliica boasts a design meticulously crafted for performance and efficiency. Its aerodynamic prowess has been rigorously tested in wind tunnels, ensuring optimal performance on the road. With front doors that elegantly open forward and rear doors that pivot upward like majestic wings, the Eliica's exterior design is a testament to its innovative engineering.

Both Eliica electric vehicle models are equipped with front doors that open forward and rear doors that pivot upward like gull-wings. (Picture from: TelstarLogistics)

Underpinning this marvel of electric mobility are four tracks housing 80 batteries, constituting a significant portion of the vehicle's total cost. These batteries require approximately 10 hours to achieve a full charge, providing an impressive range of 320 km (200 miles) at a cruising speed of 100 kph (62 mph) when fully juiced up.

The Eliica Acceleration model is designed for street use, featuring a top speed of 190 kph (120 mph) with a commendable range of 320 km (200 miles). (Picture from: TelstarLogistics)

What truly sets the Eliica apart is its remarkable eight-wheel configuration, enhancing its grip on the road surface. Each wheel is equipped with a potent 60 kW (80 hp) electric motor, culminating in an awe-inspiring 480 kW (640 hp) eight-wheel drive system that effortlessly conquers a diverse range of road conditions. The Eliica's front four wheels are actively involved in steering, ensuring precise control and maneuverability. To complement this advanced powertrain, each wheel incorporates a disc brake system supplemented by a regenerative braking mechanism designed to recover energy, further enhancing the vehicle's efficiency.

The Eliica electric vehicles weigh in at 2,400 kg (5,300 lb) and can seat the driver and three passengers. (Picture from: TelstarLogistics)

Professor Shimizu, the visionary behind the Eliica, exudes pride in his creation, emphasizing, "The sensation of acceleration experienced with this model is unparalleled and unattainable by conventional combustion engine vehicles, even after a century of automotive evolution."

Interior view of Eliica. (Picture from: http://telstarlogistics.typepad.com/)

The project's audacious goal is to push the boundaries of electric vehicle capabilities, with the aim of surpassing the existing record for street-legal gasoline-powered vehicles, which stands at an impressive 370 kph (230 mph). However, it's not just speed where the Eliica shines. This electric marvel boasts a 0-100 kph (62 mph) acceleration time of a mere 4 seconds, outpacing renowned competitors such as Tesla, Corvette, and Porsche. As of 2005, there exist two intriguing variants of the Eliica: the Speed model and the Acceleration model.

The Speed model is engineered to challenge the records held by gasoline-powered counterparts, boasting a top speed of 370 km/h (230 mph) and a range of 200 km (120 miles). (Picture from: TelstarLogistics)

The Speed model is engineered to challenge the records held by gasoline-powered counterparts, boasting a top speed of 370 km/h (230 mph) and a range of 200 km (120 miles). On the other hand, the Acceleration model is designed for street use, featuring a top speed of 190 kph (120 mph) with a commendable range of 320 km (200 miles). At the time, the ambitious team behind this project has unveiled their plans to manufacture 200 units and is actively seeking corporate sponsorship to bring their vision to life. Both Eliica vehicles are priced at $320,000 each.

In a rapidly changing automotive landscape, the Eliica emerges as a symbol of innovation and progress, pushing the boundaries of what electric vehicles can achieve. With its futuristic design, remarkable acceleration, and a commitment to shattering records, the Eliica paves the way for a greener, electrified future of transportation. It stands as a testament to the power of human ingenuity and engineering excellence, poised to leave an indelible mark on the history of the automobile industry. *** [EKA [17072013] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ELIICA | KEIOUNIVERSITY | TELSTARLOGISTICS | TRENDHUNTER | JALOPNIK | INHABITAT ]

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