Called a "mybrid," or mild hybrid, the ESX2
combines a 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder direct-injected
diesel engine with an advanced lead acid battery to
achieve an expected 70 miles per gallon.
Other hybrid configurations rely on the battery
and electric motor to work as a second "engine"
most of the time. To do this, a bigger, more
expensive battery is needed. A battery for a
traditional hybrid might cost between $4,000 to
$10,000 by itself and weigh 500 pounds. The ESX2
battery pack weighs just 133 pounds and is charged
as the car is driven.
The ESX2's extreme cab forward design helps make
room for five or six passengers and more cargo
space than available on Intrepids today. A unique
rear suspension and lowered floor allow for the
batteries and electronics to be packaged behind the
rear seat.
The bright red car body is made of just six
panels, versus the 80 or more pieces in today's
cars. At 30 miles per hour, the fascia and sills
automatically drop 1 *-inches to a three-inch
ground clearance, a 2 *-inch spoiler is deployed
and a wind screen drops behind the grille to block
some air flow. These aerodynamic changes give the
car a lower drag coefficient-just 0.19.
A handheld computer in the instrument panel
helps control the climate, stereo and vehicle
operating systems. It doubles as a personal
computer, offers Internet access, functions as a
navigation system and provides regular traffic and
weather updates. Lastly, it's the ultimate in
deterring car theft. Take the handheld computer
with you and the car doesn't move.
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