Velozzi concept

Velozzi, a California-based research and development laboratory, is dedicated to prove an environmentally-friendly vehicle needn't be quirky and odd. With that in mind, the company has created a technological marvel that will compete for the Automotive X-Prize, an international competition to develop a car that will exceed 100mpg.

Constructed atop a carbonfibre honeycomb tub chassis, the Velozzi concept is a two-seat sports car with lightweight composite body panels. The seductive front end styling is reminiscent Pininfarina-designed Ferraris, with a fascia and headlamps that appear to have been derived from the Ferrari 360. Chiselled body panels along the flanks lead to massive air intakes fitted just ahead of the rear wheels and resemble rear-mounted turbines of a Lear jet.

The Velozzi is an electric car motivated by twin AC electric engines sourcing power from a lightweight lithium-ion battery pack. Unlike a conventional electric car, an on-board Velozzi micro turbine optimized to run on any 'heavy' fuel - including ethanol, methanol, bio-diesel, or conventional petrol or diesel - recharges the battery system when needed. Weighing between 2000 and 2500lbs, Velozzi claims the car can complete 0-60 runs in less than 3 seconds and reach a top speed of 200mph, while returning an average of 200mpg.
Source: cardesignnews