Pre-orders for the Nobe 100 – a "fully recyclable"
three-wheel electric car – have opened on crowdfunding site Indiegogo, as the
Estonian start-up behind the project seeks funding to kick-start a full
production run. Buyers can secure one of the first 10 Nobe 100s by investing £ 23,100,
which represents a 19% discount on the full asking price of £ 27,900 that'll
apply when the car is launched to the public in 2021.
Boasting 260 km of range (or 310 km with an
additional ‘suitcase’ battery), the Nobe 100 weighs just 600 kg and is said to
hit 0-96 km/h in 5.9 seconds. Harnessing 97 bhp, the top speed is given as 130 km/h. A full charge takes just two
hours, although specific charging rates and cable types have not been
disclosed. The company makes several brazen claims about the Nobe 100, including
that it’s the first ever all-wheel-drive, three-wheel car and also the
"first-ever cabrio" electric vehicle.
Nobe also claims the 100 is "the first true all
terrain electric vehicle". All-wheel drive is certainly a must for capable
off-roaders, however it’s usually best applied through four wheels as opposed
to three. Nobe says the 100 takes its design cues from "vintage
America". The interior features a built-in espresso machine, as well as
seating for three people.
The start-up also says the car can be "parked
vertically" using a "gekko" parking rig, saving on road space
and improving security. The Nobe 100 is being pitched as
a "fully recyclable vehicle", with upgradeable firmware making it
ready for future developments in autonomous driving technology.
The company envisions that the car will "create
a secondary market of local manufacturers who construct and personalize
vehicles locally", sparking the "creation of a new 'nanofactories'
revolution in ex-industrial towns".
Nobe is aiming to raise £ 79,900 from the
crowdfunding campaign. It’s requesting a minimum investment of £ 16, with
incentives ranging from discount guarantees on future models to quirky
merchandise: examples given include espresso machines and "neo-vintage"
umbrellas.
