SIM-LEI EV Unveiled with Astonishing 206-Mile Range and 0-60mph Time

Jan. 07, 2012 4:26 AM ET by Adam Lynton / 15 Comments

It might not look much, but there aren't many cars on the road that will beat this dainty EV off the block.

Founded in 2009 at Japan's Keio University, the SIM Company has only now debuted their SIM-LEI EV car as last year's earthquake tragedy meant they couldn't unveil it any earlier. Separating the car from other EVs is a preference for four electric motors, one for each wheel, rather than a central motor sitting under the hood. The major selling point of the SIM-LEI is its range, said to be up to 206 miles in city traffic so more than double that of the Nissan Leaf or Mitsubishi i EV.

However what makes the car even more appealing is the fact it can go from standstill to 60mph in just 4.8 seconds. To put that in perspective, a 2012 Chevy Camaro SS and 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera manage that in 4.6 seconds. A 93mph top speed may seem a little tame, but keep it in mind hose four motors distributing power to each corner of the car will keep the SIM-LEI sucked to the ground around the tightest of corners. This is an EV that will be a blast to drive, while offering an exceptional range.