MORE than a thousand potential buyers are already on the waiting list for a tiny battery-powered car which could kick start the electric vehicle revolution.
Within 72 hours of the public unveiling of the Uniti One, tens of thousands of potential buyers had visited the company’s website and configured the Swedish-designed three-seater EV, with more than a thousand of them putting their names on the waiting list, even though first deliveries won’t take place until the middle of next year.
And the reason why this bug-shaped little car looks like becoming 2020’s electric street car of desire is its price. At just £15,100, after the UK Government’s £3500 subsidy is taken into account, it’s going to be the cheapest EV on the market.
For that kind of money you might expect something stripped-out and basic but the Uniti One is pretty well equipped.
It comes as standard with tyre pressure monitoring, electrochromic sun visor and sunroof, interior mood lights, rear view camera, electric windows and mirrors, heated front screen and a multi-screen digital dash and infotainment system based on the latest android automotive operating system.
And even with most of the available power, safety and convenience options added – including a larger capacity battery and fast charging facility – the sticker price will be less than £25,000.
In standard form, the Uniti One comes with a 12kWh battery and a range of 93 miles. An extra £3000 will buy a 24kWh battery which extends range to an impressive 86 miles, while a further £3k adds an on-board fast charger that can reduce recharging time to little more than an hour from a domestic supply.
Thanks to a kerb weight of only 600kg, the relatively low-output 68PS permanent magnet motor provides acceleration from 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 75 mph - plenty enough for city driving.
There are two selectable driving modes - City mode optimises the car for energy efficiency while Boost mode sharpens the accelerator response and adds a little weight to the steering for a more dynamic feel.
Potential buyers can configure their perfect Uniti One and place a deposit via the company’s website - www.uniti.earth.
Those placing a fully-refundable 50 per cent deposit before November 30, will be enrolled into the Uniti’s Founders Club and will receive all future software applications, updates and enhancements completely free of charge for life, and benefit from access to exclusive events, offers and services.
Uniti boss Lewis Horne said, “We’re thrilled at the hugely positive response to our unique electric city car."
