BRP announced the four-year research & development project for a plug-in hybrid electric roadster in December, in partnership with the Advanced Technology Center BRP-Sherbrooke University and with funding from the Government of Canada's Automotive Partnership Program.
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.
“The next dimension in open-road riding, the Can-Am Spyder roadster is a paradigm-shift with its unique Y-architecture,” a company statement reads. “This three-wheeled vehicle, with two wheels in the front and one in the rear, offers a completely new and stunning look. Launched in 2007, it can best be described as part motorcycle and part convertible sports car.”
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.
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