Protoscar Lampo Details Unveiled

By Robert Scardino

Robert Scardino

Author BIO

I'm a writer stuck in an engineer's brain with a debilitating case of autoholism. While studying at the University of Illinois I discovered my... More

LATEST ARTICLE
Toyota Dealers to Give Away 2010 Prius at Chicago Auto Show
As widely reported yesterday, Toyota has suspended sales of 8 models due to a faulty accelerator... Read More

• N/ALEADERBOARD RANK
• 232ARTICLES CONTRIBUTED
• 9COMMENTS POSTED

1,326 views Feb 26, 2009

Protoscar Lampo and Founder Piffaretti

Enlarge Photo

The official unveiling of the Protoscar Lampo electric sports car takes place on March 2 at the Geneva Motor Show. The unofficial unveiling has already occurred on Protoscar's website where numerous teasers of the sexy convertible have surfaced.

The all wheel drive Lampo has two electric motors: one in the front optimized for regenerative braking and another in the rear optimized for acceleration. The motors combine for 268 horsepower and 325 pound feet of torque. The 32 kWh lithium ion battery pack gives the Lampo a range of 125 miles.

Protoscar happily claims that the primary energy source for charging the Lampo is a 16 kWp photovoltaic plan in Seggiano, Tuscany that converts the sun's energy into electricity for the grid. (Of course this is a moot point as soon as the car is charged on a different grid.)

The Lampo will have several unique features including smart charging, which will allow the driver to set charging times and maximum charging status to be achieved. An advanced navigation system will also be included. The system will tell Lampo drivers how far they can go before the battery pack runs out of juice in addition to providing route guidance.

Perhaps the most promising aspect of Protoscar's recent announcement is the recognition that cars aren't just transportation vessels. In describing their design approach, the Swiss "CleanCar Shapers" say, "In today’s market the majority of the EV promoters try to sell electric cars as a “rational vehicle” and forget the emotional aspects. But as a matter of fact, for most buyers a car is essentially an emotional object and not only a means of transport. The LAMPO shall demonstrate that electric drivetrains can be perceived positively and totally accepted if placed and launched in a different way." Agreed.

(See photos below.)

Source: Protoscar

Lampo Headlamp

Enlarge Photo

Lampo Instrument Panel

Enlarge Photo

Lampo Interior

Enlarge Photo

Lampo Tail Lights

Enlarge Photo

Lampo Recharging

Enlarge Photo