Arcimoto unveils three-wheel Pulse EV in the U.S.

Arcimoto headquartered in Eugene, Oregon unveiled last week a three wheel EV called the Pulse. The electric vehicle seats two occupants and has a range of at least 50 to 100 miles on a single charge with top speed pegged at 55 mph. The Pulse has a sticker price of $20,000. Now, that is very low for an EV.

The vehicle can be pre-ordered through the company’s website. Reservation for a unit of Pulse is just $500 which can be refunded any time that you think you don’t want the car anymore. The first run of production will roll out 300 units with first deliveries expected to be achieved by 2011.

The Pulse depends on an advanced DC electric motor that can output 80 ft-lb of torque while on the road.  It uses a typical 110 volt plug and charges full in about six to eight hours. The car is very efficient at low speeds with the vehicle having no idling state even when at rest.

The electric car comes standard with power locks and windows, keyless entry and starting, stereo entertainment system, optional air conditioner, and LED lighting. The safety provisions include automatic disconnection of the battery upon collision, three-point seatbelts, roll cage, and crumple zones.

The interiors of the vehicle simulate a jet-cockpit. The company explains on their website that the Pulse has very good handling and also very stable even during hard braking.

The sticker price is also a bit lower because the car uses AGM Lead Acid batteries which are way cheaper than lithium ion. It is very safe though since they use military spec, solid state batteries. The company is looking into how they can incorporate lithium ion batteries into their production.

The pulse may meet head on the Aptera 2e priced at $25,000. The Aptera can reach 120 miles in one charging with a top speed of 85mph.