Could the SwinCar Revolutionize Electric Off-Roading?
What do you get when you cross half an arachnid and an electric car? Well, that’s what we have here. It’s called the SwinCar, and it is French, fully electric, and completely awesome. Yes, I may have just used “awesome” to describe a fully electric car, but there’s good reason behind it.
It might not win any rock crawling competitions, but it’s ability to traverse some really awkward terrain is mighty impressive. Articulate suspension that would put a lot of off-road vehicles to shame is part of what makes this thing an engineering masterpiece. Essentially a chassis is suspended between axles that act in a gyroscopic way to keep you level with the ground, even if you’re pitched at a precarious angle.
Not to jump on the band wagon of being a green-o-phobe, but even the electric power has it’s advantages. With the power coming directly from the hub, there’s no limitations on axle movement from a traditional drive-line, and the instant torque of an electric motor is perfect for gently traversing some terrain that can’t be taken at speed. Not to mention, there’s no need to have a transfer case or locking diffs. If a wheel has traction, the SwinCar moves forward.
If you’re curious, and interested in learning some French, you can find the SwinCar website here (but don’t worry, it translates to English).
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