Ford unveils electric Ka
05/16/2000
Deutsche Presse-Agentur Copyright (c) 2000, dpa

Cologne, Germany (dpa) - Ford has unveiled a new concept car, based on the Ka model range and driven by a high-performance battery.

The lithium ion (Li-Ion) battery system was developed by Ford's research centre in Aachen, Germany in cooperation with the French company SAFT.
Ford claims the battery boasts particularly high energy density and storage capacity figures.
Ford Cologne announced it will give the electric car a range of over 150 kilometres (94 miles).
If driven at a constant 80 km/h (50 mph), the company revealed the four-seater hatchback could run for 200 kilometres between charges.
The so-called e-Ka has a top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.5 mph) in 12.7 seconds.
According to Ford, a fully drained battery could be recharged in 6 hours.
Copyright (c) 2000, dpa 16-05-00 2205EDT

High-tech Battery Power for a new E-Ka era
Date: Mon, 15 May 2000 00:04:49 -0700 (PDT)

[The Internet Electric Vehicle List News. For Public EV informational purposes. Contact publication for reprint rights.] --- {EVangel}

Ford's new e-Ka model uses a new generation of high-tech batteries. The Lithium ion batteries are 70% lighter than conventional batteries
05/09/2000 Belfast Telegraph Copyright (C) 2000 Belfast Telegraph Newspapers Ltd.; Source: WorldReporter (TM)

FORD has extended the limits of electric power by producing a prototype e-Ka which uses a new generation of high-tech batteries.

This achieves performance approaching that of a petrol Ka with acceleration to 60mph in just over 12 seconds and 82mph top speed. It has a range averaging 95 miles between charges stretching to 125 miles if you can manage to drive at a steady 50mph.

The Lithium ion batteries are 70% lighter than conventional batteries and are located in three troughs, one under the bonnet and the others in front of and behind the rear axle.

Charging from flat takes six hours and the e-Ka comes with an on-board recharger to plug in to the mains. Lithium ion batteries are immune to the 'memory' effect and retain their full charge regardless of use.

The e-Ka has been lightened by 45 kilograms to give the electric motor a chance. This has been achieved by use of aluminium and composites. It uses low rolling resistance tyres.

This is a significant step forward for electric propulsion but there is obviously still a lot of work to be done before they can be put on sale at an affordable price.

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