Next engine?

[gg222]

From http://www.gizmag.com/aptera-typ1-three-wheel-electric-vehicle/8392/2/

"The Type-1 uses a current one-speed transmission at a one-sixth gear ratio (with the electric motor delivering full torque from zero RPM) and work has already begun on a “quick-change” two speed transmission that will provide greater acceleration and a higher top speed."

Hope it won't cost to much to switch.

[azg00]

The dateline on the article that you linked to is Nov 23, 2007. So, this may not be the newest news. We may actually see our cars manufactured with this "new" transmission.

[davidrools]

a two speed transmission would definitely add performance benefits to the aptera. It could both improve acceleration with a lower first gear and improve efficiency and range with a higher second gear. The cost, other than money, would be a slight weight increase, but probably insignificantly so compared to the weight of the batteries. Regen. braking could also be improved at both high and low speed.

As for the title, the aptera uses a motor, not an engine, and this would specifically address the transmission (though it might be built into the motor)

[KarenRei]

It'd add complexity and increase maintenance. I hope they don't need a transmission.

Maintenance is a big issue. One of the main reasons I'm choosing the Typ-1e over the Typ-1h is the perceived lower maintenance. Since the energy costs are dirt cheap, most of the operating costs will be in maintenance.