FVT alé
The FVT (Fuel Vapor Technologies) is a Canadian company which presented its ultraeconomical three-wheeler “alé” for the first time at 2006 SEMA Show. The “alé” has front wheels drive what enables the car to perform at a superb level, particularly in cornering, with the car easily pulling 1.7 g’s in corners during track testing on street tires.
They released the following press release:
Fuel Vapor Technologies has developed what could be the highest mileage car in North America – by a long shot. Created by inventor George Parker, this new concept car named the “ alé ” (alay) has been in development for 15 years. A dedicated team has been assembling the 1st prototype over the past year and the results are outstanding.
Three wheels better than 4?:
The “alé” features a unique 3-wheeled configuration: 2 in the front, and one in the rear. The front wheels drive and steer the vehicle. This design enables the car to perform at a superb level, particularly in cornering, with the car easily pulling 1.7 g’s in corners during track testing on street tires. The three-wheeled automotive platform also aid in improving fuel efficiency and aerodynamics.
Vapor system:
The car’s key innovation is the fuel vapor system. This technology (which is in the patenting pending process) allows the engine to run on “fuel vapors” rather than liquid fuel. The majority of gas engines today run 14.7:1 – (14.7 parts air to 1 part gasoline). This proprietary fuel vapor system allows the “alé” to run on a ratio of over 20:1 without compromising performance. According to the textbooks, this ratio is impossible, as a standard engine would not start or run on a air/fuel ratio this low. With a 10 gallon gas tank found on most vehicles, the “alé” can travel from Vancouver BC to San Francisco CA on one tank. Over 15 hours of driving without filling up.
Performance:
Not only does the “alé” have extreme mileage capabilities, but its performance is better than many high-end sports cars. It accelerates from 0-60 in 5 seconds, and will pull over 1.7 g’s while cornering. Brad Zimmerman, head tech for the company stated during testing, “I drove it hard at the track for 4 solid hours, throwing it into corners and accelerating fast. The car’s performance is spectacular. After all that hard driving, we only went through $10 in gas.”
Emissions:
The “alé” runs on regular gasoline, and easily achieves the level of “super low” emissions. Even more impressive is the fact that all the data to date has been gathered without a catalytic converter.
The Future:
This is the first time the public have had a chance to view the “alé”. The company is currently seeking investors to take the “alé” into production. They will also be entering the “Automotive X-Prize” competition for the most fuel efficient production vehicle.
Main specifications:
Engine capacity: 1500cc
Power: 180 HP
0-60 mph: 5s
1/4 mile time: 12.9 s
Length: 174" (4420 mm)
Heigth: 50" (1270 mm)
Top speed: 140 mph (225km/h)
Pictures: Fuel Vapor Techniologies
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