Volvo has developed an advanced electric concept car, named the 3CC. It has a top speed of over 85 mph and delivers zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration in approximately ten seconds – with zero emissions. The electric power comes from lithium-ion cells like those used in laptop computers that are packaged in the thin sandwich floor. The 3CC has a potential driving range of over 180 miles, depending on driving conditions. About 20 percent of the energy can be recovered by regenerative braking. The vehicle uses a front wheel drive layout.

Image: Volvo

Electric cars are much more widely accepted in Europe than the US. France in particular is developing the infrastructure for practical recharging of electric car batteries along major highways.

"We believe it is necessary to show new ways to reduce pollution and congestion,” says Lars Erik Lundin, Vice President & General Manager of the Volvo Monitoring and Concept Center.


Image: Volvo

Advanced design

The 3CC  has a high strength steel space frame and composite sandwich floor panels for safety and light weight. The seating arrangement is "2+1", two adults in the front and one adult (or two children) in the rear. The outer body is a bonded one piece carbon fiber shell. This results in a rigid chassis. The layout can be adapted for the most appropriate powertrain in the future, whether it be gasoline, diesel, biogas, or hybrid electric.


 

Oct 2004, Updated Jan 2006