2011 NAIAS: EV Innovations Wave 2 and INIZIO

Michelin Challenge Design is a collection of events and displays reflecting Michelin North America’s interest in and commitment to innovative design. The company’s stand at the 2011 NAIAS in Detroit wants to showcase vehicles from around the world that might otherwise not be shown during at the prestigious auto show.

This year, we managed to catch a glimpse of the EV Innovations Wave II, one of the Progressive Automotive X-Prize cars, at the Detroit Auto Show. This state of the art sleek plug-in electric two-seater is the winner of the Progressive Automotive X Prize. The vehicle uses lithium battery technologies to reach a top speed of 80 mph (128 km/h) and a range of up to 170 miles (273 km) on a charge.

Li-ion Motors also brought the INIZIO electric supercar to the Michelin Challenge Design display area. This a proprietary lithium-ion battery coupled with a 145 kW electric motor to reach 62 miles per hour (100 km/h) in the 3 to 4 second range, according to the manufacturer. Li-ion Motors also claims that INIZIO has a range of up to 250 miles (321km) and a top-speed of 170 mph (272 km/hour).

The exterior of the car looks sleek and is characterized by smooth and rounded edges. It comes with high-intensity halogen headlights and a removable hard top. Also available is an optional movable back wing that allows the driver to customize the INIZIO experience for every drive and occasion. The INIZIO electric super car is expected to become available in mid-2011. The company is hoping to build 2500 units per year with a starting price of $139,000 (around €100,000).