3.12.2009

Somethin Somethin Somethin...Whipington!!

If you're at all familiar with the name Frazer-Nash, it probably isn't in the context of modern drivetrain technology like hybrid systems. Nonetheless, the brand that was long ago a famous British car maker is still around, albeit no longer building cars. In fact, hybrid drive systems is exactly what Frazer Nash is developing today and the company has collaborated with Italdesign Giugiaro to create a concept called the Namir.

Frazer Nash has developed a series hybrid drivetrain (like the Voltec drivetrain in the Chevy Volt) that uses an 814cc rotary engine driving a generator. The generator charges a 400V lithium polymer battery pack that feeds electrons to a pair of electric motors at each axle with a cumulative output of 362 hp. The system is claimed to give the Namir a top speed of 187 mph, 0-62 mph acceleration in 3.5 seconds while still managing 91.7 mpg (US)! Not too shabby.