Hybrid CanAm Spyder Heads to Geneva

Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) has presented the hybrid roadster concept in New York at the end of January, and has since then showcased it at various events across the United States. Now, the Hybrid CanAm Spyder is ready to make its European debut, as the company plans to display it at the upcoming show in Geneva next week.

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the hybrid Spyder roadster will be equipped with an electric motor, lithium-ion battery and the Rotax Advanced Combustion Efficiency (ACE) engine. This engine is currently used in BRP’s 2011 Ski-Doo snowmobiles. With 29 mpg, it aims to be the most fuel-efficient engine in the snowmobile industry.

BRP aims for the hybrid roadster to be 50% more fuel-efficient than the current Can-Am Spyder roadster with comparable acceleration and a total range of 375 miles. It will also cut CO2 emissions by half.

Over the next four years the CTA will produce three generations of prototypes and their components. The final product must pass the test in terms of performance, reliability, durability, and economic mass production. Any technological innovations will be potentially transferable to other types of vehicles and products.

“In 2007, BRP launched its first on-road vehicle. The Can-Am Spyder roadster. A true paradigm shift with its unique Y-architecture. Our passion for innovation continues as we work towards developing a future hybrid electric vehicle (HEV),” a company statement reads.

“Our goal is superior fuel efficiency, combined with dramatically reduced emissions. We believe that the HEV engine is the way forward for the environment. It will add another milestone to BRP’s road map towards eco-performing vehicles. The advanced concept Can-Am HEV Spyder roadster is once again testimony of BRP’s passion for innovation in the powersports industry,” BRP explains.