tzero_FAQs.htm

When will tzero's be available? How much will it cost?

The tzero is being readied for production, and is expected to begin deliveries in 2002. The exact timing is not yet determined. It will be priced between Porsche and Ferrari. For more details on getting the tzero, click here.

What is the range of the tzero?

The driving range will vary by about a factor of two, depending on how you drive. With very careful driving, up to 100 miles is possible. Making frequent use of the performance capability of the car can drop the range to 50 miles. The range at a steady 60 mph is 100 miles.

How do I charge the tzero?

The tzero's Reductive charging system can plug in to any grounded 100 to 240V socket. The current draw from the line can be set by the user. With a 100-Amp 240-Volt connection, the tzero can fully charge in about an hour.

Can the tzero charge at the existing public electric vehicle charging infrastructure?

The tzero has a standard AVCON conductive charging inlet that is compatible with existing conductive charging infrastructure. The inlet is wired with the proposed Level 2+ standard, which allows charging at up to 20 kW.

How can the tzero be so fast with 'only' 200 hp?

For a given power to weight ratio, electric vehicles usually acccelerate faster than conventional cars. This is because the peak power rating of an electric vehicle is available over a broad speed range, and there is no time lost to shifting gears. GM's 2950-lb EV1 gets to 60 mph in 8 seconds with only 125 hp. The tzero, with 200 hp and only 2450 lb, gets to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. But the tzero really shines in midrange acceleration - it scoots from 30 to 50 mph in only 1.4 seconds - faster than just about anything on the road. This level of performance is very accessible, with no gears to shift, highly-effective traction control, and virtually no noise other than a light 'squeaking' of the rear tires as they claw for traction. See this QuickTime 3 video of the tzero at the drag strip.

Does the tzero have air conditioning and heating?

The tzero has a heating system that utilizes powertrain waste heat and supplemental electric resistance heating through PTC heater elements. At present, there are no plans to equip the tzero with air conditioning - on warm days, the tzero is best experienced with the side windows off and the wind in your hair!

How will I get service?

Service will be provided by developing a network of approved service centers in major sales areas, by AC Propulsion technical support, and by quick-turnaround module replacement as necessary. The tzero should require very little routine servicing, but will require battery pack changes occasionally.

How long does the battery pack last? What does it cost to replace?

Pack life is on the order of two to three years, or 15,000 to 20,000 miles. At current prices, a set of new batteries costs about $3,000 from Optima.

As more questions come in, we'll post them with the answers on this page.

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