Companies like Tesla, Lightning and Ginetta have helped electric cars shake off the milk float image and now there's even a race series in the pipeline - the Electric Vehicle (EV) Cup. Westfield is the latest company to enter the EV Cup with its iRacer, which will take to the race tracks of Europe from 2011.
Like Westfield's other products the racer is low in weight with a target of just 600kg. Drive comes from a pair of electric motors driving each rear wheel independently and giving 107bhp. Electricity is stored in lithium phosphate batteries, mounted under the floor for a low centre of gravity. Additional batteries can also be fitted at the front of the vehicle to give extra range and also adjust the weight distribution.
Videos we've seen that show the prototype iRacer under development suggest that the chassis is similar to Westfield's SE model. When the bodywork is fitted there should be less resemblance to the company's traditional sports cars. It is a striking and attractive shape with an unusual double rear wing.
Westfield claims that the iRacer will do 0-60mph in five seconds and is limited to 110mph, with a range of 55 miles - although extra batteries will increase that figure. Recharging takes two hours from a three-phase supply.
The iRacer will be on display at the Autosport International Racing Car Show at the NEC from 14th to 17th January along with other EV Cup race vehicles.
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John Lambert - 8 Jan 2010