The concept sketch for the ZAP-X Crossover SUV just posted to the ZAP web site makes one thing clear: this is not, thank God, Xebra redux. Whether ZAP-X succeeds in elevating ZAP from toymaker to contender is another question altogether — but here, too, the ZAP-X design shows real promise, presumably helped by the fact that Lotus Engineering is behind it.
Based on the aluminum Lotus APX concept, the design features all-wheel drive with in-hub electric motors that add up to 644 hp (480 kW) and are expected to reach 155 mph. The compact SUV has a fast-recharge time of 10 minutes and a target range of 350 miles.
Helping to hit that target, says ZAP, are a lightweight aluminum chassis, the aforementioned AWD drive system, and an "advanced battery management system" that reportedly uses a lithium-ion battery pack, with supercapacitors kicking in to boost acceleration.
Will it get 0 to 60 in 4.8 seconds, as ZAP claims? Entirely possible, though I prefer to see for myself. Is it a Volt-killer? A Tesla-terminator? You'll have to convince me. But at least it looks like a car.
[ZAP]
