The Electric Experience

摘要

The first kick at the high-pressure side-walls of the ultra-low-rolling-resistance tires of GM's EV1 underscores the fact that the first electric car being marketed to the general public in decades is, well, different. The difference is more fundamental than the mere fact that the EV1 is powered by a 137-horsepower, three-phase, AC induction electric motor that taps the stored energy of its lead-acid battery pack. Until now, electric cars have been prototypes, experimental abstractions. But the EV1 sits ready at Saturn dealerships, gleaming like some fiberglass fish out of water, waiting to be driven home, if you want it.