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Revision as of 20:10, 1 February 2009
The 'Maranello4' is an innovative new petrol, diesel or electric-powered 'city car' which is developed and built by the EFFEDI Automotive Group, Italy's third largest commercial vehicle manufacturer.
The Maranello4 is designed to be driven in the city, giving the user freedom of movement, and ease of parking. The suspensions, the tyres and the daily lights have all been developed to ensure reduced overall power consumption. Technology, ergonomics and design are combined to give maximum comfort. The independent suspension provides a smooth ride, the four disc brakes ensure excellent brake performance. Great visibility and an ergonomic interior allow a comfortable drive while the doors are hinged at the rear to allow easier access. Other key features are the soundproofed interior and the boot design - spacious enough to contain a bicycle. The Maranello4 combines technology and safety, and all models are provided with stainless steel chassis and rtm body. The low barycentre and four independent McPherson struts give it an excellent grip on the road, while the all-wheel disc brakes ensure safety.
The excellent visual performance of the car is ensured by the ergonomics of the internal space, the driving and seating position, and the high visibility windscreen. The vehicle's height, its bright colours and the third stop-light position guarantee it visibility on the road. Just 2.64 metres long it is now branching out of its home Italian market as the electric version is set to be imported into the UK by the Sakura Battery Co Ltd. Homologated as a 'quadricycle', it is 1.44 metres wide and 1.67 metres high.
Four power options are available for the Italian market with the Maranello4 models known at the SCB, SCD, SCE and SGB. The SCG is fitted with a Lombardini Euro 2 compliant 505cc petrol engine which has a power output of 15kW, a max speed of 80km/h, and a range of 475km. This tiny petrol engine is also available on an electric-hybrid version (SCB) which has 8 lead-gelled batteries and in electric 'mode' offers 4.5kW power and a top speed of 55km/h. Maximum range is 500km. The third version (SCD) has a 505cc Lombardini Euro 2 diesel engine. This has a 4kW power output, a top speed of 45km/h, and a range of 600km.
Finally an all-electric option (SCE) is provoking much interest as city drivers as well as European Union and national legislators, all search for new methods of clean, low emission transportation. This version boasts a 48V, 220 amp lead-acid battery pack which serves to give it a 4.5kW power output, a top speed of 45km/h, and a range of 45-100km. With its easy recharging system all the car's owner requires is access to a standard domestic electricity supply socket. Each of the Maranello4's range of powerplants is coupled up to a continuously variable gearbox and a four wheel drive system.
The car comes with a choice of seven paint colour finishes: Sharm Red, Myanmar Yellow, Positano Blue, Namibia Black, Malaga White, Amazonia Green, Lanzarote Grey, Linosa Grey. Two specification levels are available: Star and Superstar. The Star 'entry-level' model is very basic but includes as standard: two-speed wipers, rear fog lights, parking lights, locking petrol cap, adjustable seats and headrests, reading lights and diagnostic lights. Superstar also includes: clock, remote control central locking, left- and right-hand door mirrors, inertia-reel seatbelts, passenger assist handles, alloy wheels and a rear deck. Additional options available for both versions include a volumetric anti-theft alarm, spare wheel, jack, parking sensors, GPS navigator, first aid kit, smokers kit, radio/CD player, leather upholstery, metallic paint and a leather- or wood-finished steering wheel.
The Sakura Battery Co Ltd now plans to import the electric (SCE) version into the UK, spreading this car's appeal well beyond the major Italian cities. Sakura Battery Co. Ltd. was established in 1992, they are the largest supplier of electric bikes in the UK with more than 150 dealers, and are also major suppliers of rechargeable batteries.
The Maranello4 SCE is exempt from the London congestion charge and parking is free in many areas. With the saving on fuel, the congestion charge, parking in London and zero road tax, the Maranello4 could almost pay for itself in the first year for many London buyers. "Due to the demand in Europe delivery times are typically around six to eight weeks, but our partners EFFEDI are working to increase production, so we hope by the end of this year no one will have to wait more than four weeks," said Sakura Battery Managing Director Dan Hornby. Sakura will also begin importing the hybrid version from September. The Maranello4 pricing starts at GBP£9,950 (US$18,770) on the road and includes a 3-year unlimited mileage warranty and a 2-year warranty on the battery pack.
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