Arcimoto
Generation 8 SRK
With
two wheels up front and one out back, this latest SRK keeps the reverse-trike
layout of the previous seven iterations, but don't be deceived. The changes
made this go-round are more revolutionary than evolutionary, and have moved the
project from an exercise in wishful thinking to one that just might have a shot
at making it to the street. Yeah, Arcimoto has failed to come through on
previous product announcements, but its try, try-again strategy may finally be
panning out.
The
difference is a redesign that dramatically slashes complexity and weight, and
thereby, cost. Besides bringing a much better balance to the price-performance
equation, one could also argue the changes make for a more functional and
engaging-to-drive vehicle. Gone is the steering wheel, replaced by a set of
handlebars, and, similar to a snowmobile, the feet now straddle the chassis'
battery-pack backbone, connecting the driver to the vehicle in a more dynamic
way.
Though
it keeps a foot-operated mechanical brake, as is required by law for
motorcycles – the class into which three-wheelers still fall – a
regenerative-braking lever, which operates independently, is hand-controlled.
Throttle duties are also moved to the handlebars.
These
changes, in addition to shrinking the vehicle's footprint, have allowed a
whopping 727 bricks of butter to be melted way from the previous architecture,
bringing the SRK-8 down to a svelte 1,023 lbs. The smaller, lighter form means
more efficiency, think 230 MPG, and better performance.
With a motor powering each front wheel, acceleration from zero-to-sixty
now transpires in a snappy 7.5 seconds, while top speed is given as 85 miles
per hour. Its standard 12-kWh lithium battery should see a range of 70 urban
miles, but a 20-kWh/130-mile package will also be optional. Charging happens
with either a Level-1 or Level-2 connection – they are still weighing a DC
fast-charge option – and flat-to-full powering up is given, rather
non-specifically, as "a few hours", reflecting the alpha state of the
prototypes.
The
passenger cabin of the SRK-8 is open-sided. Though there is a safety cage and,
indeed, a roof, it doesn't protect you completely from the elements. While this
is a point we rather like, as it viscerally connects occupants with their
surroundings, Arcimoto has developed a side-panel option, complete with gull
falcon eagle-wing door, they say quickly attaches and allows for some amount of
insulation from inclement weather. A neat trick, really, though one that will
come as a US$ 3,000 option.
Speaking
of dollars. here's the part that completes this unique package and gives the
effort an air of viability: a base price tag of US$ 11,900. This, along with a low
operating cost, keeps it within the realm of buyability for many American
consumers. It also makes it the most affordable EV (aside from several actual
motorcycles) you can purchase in the United States.
The
company says it is targeting the end of 2016 for production and a refundable US$ 100 gets you a place in line. Given its game plan calls for a 50-strong fleet
of production-intent vehicles, and as yet no factory to build them, we feel the
wait will be somewhat longer. Still, with financial backing from WR Hambrecht
Ventures, and a product that could be built and sold in a number of markets
worldwide, it seems the wind may finally be at the back of Arcimoto.