The reason for looking so “production ready” is the fact that the Circuit EV is based on the Lotus almost nobody likes (ed, the Europa). This pretty much makes Chrysler LLC put its name on the long list of manufacturers with which Lotus Cars have collaborated, Tesla Motors included. Since the Europa is based on a longer Elise/Exige platform, which by coincidence is also used by Tesla for its electric Roadster, this practically makes Tesla and Dodge relatives, right?
In a somewhat misleading manner, Ralph Gilles, Vice President of Design at Chrysler LLC said this about the concept: “The exterior styling of the Dodge Circuit EV mates bold Dodge styling to the no-compromise performance attributes of an all-electric performance sports car.” Kind of makes you think they designed it themselves, doesn't it? Except we know better.
With an eye-watering “Tangoreen” color and huge “EV” graphics on both sides of the vehicle, the Circuit EV doesn't exactly scream Earth-friendliness, and is more likely to make you think about shredding tires on the pavement while giving an almost silent burn-out. Why silent, you ask? Well, mainly because its means of propulsion consists of a completely electric drivetrain called “ENVI”.
Combined with a driving range of about 150-200 miles between charges and all the regular conveniences of a premium sports car, the Circuit EV looks like a pretty good excuse of not going full throttle on buying a internal combustion engined-car if you want to drive fast.
Plus, just like the Tesla Roadster, it can be plugged into the typical 220-volt household outlet, with a charging time of about four hours.
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