Dealers attending the NADA expo in New Orleans received a firsthand look at the pre-production ZAP Alias roadster. The company that has become known for its funky-looking three-wheeled electric city cars and trucks will deliver its first performance model in late 2009.
Zap considers the Alias a roadster even though it does not appear to offer a removable roof. What it does feature is a dramatic design, seating for two, freeway speeds, 100-mile range, and an "affordable price point." It has a composite shell, lithium-ion batteries, regenerative braking, solar glass, integrated GPS, and "Lambo-style" doors.
The three-wheeler weights only 1496 lbs and its AC induction motor sends about 58 hp and 55 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. The company says the combo is good for a zero to 60 mph time of 7.8 seconds and a top speed of 105 mph.
Unlike most of its products that are made in China, Zap says it will be building the Alias in the U.S. and is currently finalizing the production requirements. By the end of the year it will produce a limited number of hand-crafted, Signature Series Alias roadsters. A $1,000 deposit is all it takes to reserve one today with the MSRP expected to be below $35,000.
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