Exploring the early 2000s reveals a fascinating era of electric vehicle innovation. During this time, many automakers experimented with electric power, creating unique and rare models that paved the way for today’s EV advancements. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 8 rare electric vehicles from the early 2000s, highlighting their features and significance in automotive history.
Contents
Toyota RAV4 EV (2002)
The Toyota RAV4 EV was a groundbreaking electric SUV, offering a range of approximately 100 miles on a single charge. Equipped with a 27 kWh NiMH battery pack, it could reach a top speed of 78 mph. This vehicle was highly practical and reliable, yet only a limited number were produced, making it quite rare today. Its spacious interior and advanced technology made it a favorite among early electric vehicle enthusiasts.
GM EV1 (1996-2002)
Known for its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, the GM EV1 was a pioneering electric vehicle that quickly developed a cult following. With a range of 70-100 miles per charge and initially equipped with a 16.5 kWh lead-acid battery pack (later upgraded to NiMH), it set a high standard for early EVs. Unfortunately, GM recalled and destroyed most of these vehicles, enhancing their rarity.
Th!nk City (2000-2002)
Produced by Ford’s subsidiary Think Global, the Th!nk City was a small urban electric car with a range of 53 miles per charge. It used a lead-acid battery pack and was designed to be eco-friendly for city driving. Financial difficulties faced by the brand and limited production have contributed to its rarity.
Citroën Saxo Electrique (1997-2003)
Similar to the Peugeot 106 Electrique, the Citroën Saxo Electrique was created for urban commuting, offering a range of about 50 miles per charge. It utilized a NiCd battery pack and was popular in France and a few other European countries. Limited production and the transition to newer models have made it a rare find today.
Suzuki Wagon R+ EV (2000-2002)
An electric version of the popular Wagon R+ microvan, the Suzuki Wagon R+ EV offered a range of about 75 miles per charge. Utilizing a NiMH battery pack, it was designed for city driving. Limited production and the gradual phase-out of older electric models have made it a rare find today.
Commuter Cars Tango (2000)
The Commuter Cars Tango was an ultra-narrow electric vehicle designed for urban commuting, offering a range of about 80 miles per charge. Its unique design allowed for easy parking and maneuverability in crowded city environments. Limited production and its distinctive appearance have made it a rare and intriguing vehicle in the history of electric transportation.
Reva G-Wiz (2001-2012)
The Reva G-Wiz, an early micro electric car, became popular in urban areas due to its compact size and affordability. It offered a range of about 50 miles per charge with a lead-acid battery. Its small footprint and limited production make it a rare sight today. This vehicle was particularly noted for its simplicity and ease of use.
AC Propulsion tzero (1997-2003)
The AC Propulsion tzero was a pioneering electric sports car known for its impressive performance, with a 0-60 mph time of under 4 seconds. It used a 28 kWh lead-acid battery pack, later upgraded to lithium-ion, providing a range of about 100 miles. Only a few units were made, making it extremely rare. The tzero’s technology influenced later EV developments, including the Tesla Roadster.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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