The Whip NEV is speed limited to 25 mph or 35 mph depending on state laws for these vehicles. Charge time is about eight hours from a nearly dead battery pack. Showing a high degree of ingenuity, the motor drives the wheels through the Noble's five-speed transmission with the linkage locked in second gear. Other gears are left out of the transmission to save weight and lower cost. Brakes are economy-car standards; discs up front, drums in the rear. Weight with the lead acid batteries is around 2500 lbs.
Whip HSVs versions get these major upgrades; a more powerful motor (55 horsepower at up to 3500 rpm), an FE-type lithium battery array, and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS. The higher energy density batteries lighten the Whip by 400 pounds. High-speed versions will be limited to approximately 60 mph. This vehicle's expected range is over 100 miles on a single charge, meaning a typical driver might be able to go 2-3 days without a recharge.
Behind the wheel, the Whip's interior looks like any relatively current Asian economy car (think Hyundai Accent from 2003). The seats offer good support, door panels look modern, and the equipment level is fully up to par. For example, the standard audio system is from JVC and incorporates Bluetooth and MP3 compatibility. Unlike most NEVs, the Whip comes standard with keyless entry, power door locks, power mirrors, and a fully functional HVAC system with optional air conditioning.
The cabin is exceptionally roomy with a surprisingly high seating position. Visibility is excellent. The sizable steel doors have frameless windows with rubber seals. The assembly closes with a reassuring feeling that isn't typical for an NEV -- many of which don't even have doors. Cargo room is likewise large. The glass hatch flips up and a steel tailgate folds down. I found it curious that the seats have pockets -- they must be units pulled from other vehicles Shuanghuan produces. Batteries are stored under the cargo area floor.
We drove the Whip NEV first. The powertrain is smooth, not like the jerky electric golf carts or other NEVs we've sampled over the years. Unlike these more primitive low-speed vehicles, the Whip's system fully incorporates regenerative braking. The transition between acceleration, coasting, regenerative braking, and braking through the physical braking system is highly polished. WheeGo purchases a capable powertrain controller and then uses proprietary programming to help integrate the motor/generator, batteries, and braking system.
Power is adequate for an around-town car with a limited top speed. Acceleration is quick enough to get you across a street without worrying about cross traffic, but you won't win any drag races. The steering is electrically assisted and has good effort but not any feel. For planned communities and vacation destinations such as Destin, Florida, the Whip NEV could be an excellent transportation alternative. ...next page >>