Chrysler claims the Circuit EV has 'unique, fearless Dodge design.' Erm...
Let's just leave the styling alone and talk about the interesting part of the Circuit, the 'EV' bit. It's powered by an 'ENVI' powertrain (ENVI is the team at Chrysler responsible for ENVIronmental things, like electric cars) that sends the car to 62mph in less than five seconds with a top speed in excess of 120mph.
A 268bhp electric motor powering the wheels achieves those impressive figures, fed by a lithium-ion battery pack capable of driving the Europa, sorry, Circuit 150- to 200-miles between charges. Better yet, it can be plugged into a 110v or 220v household mains supply.
However, this car is more a showcase for the ENVI motor's capabilities than a viable production model. The cost of manufacturing it is prohibitive - as demonstrated by the
Tesla's lofty asking price - so it's more a 'look what we could do if we stay afloat' sort of thing. There's no harm in that, though.
Mark Nichol - 11 Jan 2009