What 2-passenger vehicle releases Zero emissions, goes up to 52MPH, covers 30 to 40 miles per charge and looks like the bastard child in a three-way between a Smart Crosstown, that Vectrix 3-wheeler concept scooter and Darth Guppy? Why, the Cree SAM, that’s what.
With it’s award winning aesthetics (that’s what they say), the Swiss built “SAM” is described as quiet, maneuverable, responsive, agile, and a lot of fun to drive.
Although I tease, it’s only because I love and I will say that a vehicle like this should always been seen in lighthearted colors (as seen below). Black is a little to serious for a vehicle that begs to not be taken seriously. I applaud their environmental considerations right down to the easily recyclable package. Testing for the SAM began in 2001 and Cree chugged on until 2003 when they went broke, but NOW they return with a vengeance, seeking investors to help build this dream. The SAM, if ever put into production, will retail for just under $9,000 US (around what the current Vectrix is expected to go for). Thoughts? Considerations?
Thanks to Fritz for the scoop. he found it on the Cyberscooter site.
2. June 2007 at 6:11 am
Here’s wishing them the best of luck with that $9000 goal. With Smart Cars and Corbin Sparrows costing over $20k, these neat ideas for commuter vehicles still aren’t competitive with the regular Aveo/Yaris/Fit subcompacts that sell for $12-18k. Not to diss the new wave of subcompacts, but it would be vitally important for any city-car to undercut them in price.
I do dig the cycle fenders. The whole design looks sleeker than the Corbin. A second seat is also nice, even if it’s likely to get about as much use as the “passenger seat” space on a scooter. I’d certainly appreciate the cargo room, if nothing else.
4. June 2007 at 4:17 pm
Where do I sign up? That thing looks perfect for a daily commuter.
4. June 2007 at 10:33 pm
The $20k Smarts are gray market imports. When Daimler-Benz get the Smart machine rolling state-side, I’ve heard they’ll start at $12k for a base model.
A Yaris is definitely the better value, but let’s face it, these cars aren’t going to be bought for $$ reasons alone. There’s a lot of reasons someone will pay up to $2k more for a modern Vespa compared to asimilarly spec’d Asian scooter, but we all know people don’t choose Vespas because they’re the best scooter bargain out there.
Either way, I can’t wait for a commuting landscape FILLED with Yarii, Fits, Smarts and the like. I’ll have more of a fighting chance while on my scooter or motorcycle against those.
25. April 2008 at 11:53 pm
awesome I would buy it today it is great idea. When they coming to states?
26. April 2008 at 2:59 am
You know, I don’t have a good feeling that we’ll ever see this in the USA. I think they are still doing test runs in 2 European cities… but that’s it. :(