ZAP solar car interesting, says automotive analyst

Alternative vehicle maker ZAP (Zero Air Pollution) (NYSE Arca: ZP) has given a first look at its new solar-powered electric vehicle.

Named after the company's XEBRA brand of electric cars, the XEBRA XERO will be ZAP's first production electric vehicle that incorporates solar power.

Some might find it cute, but the ZAP's XEBRA XERO, if it indeed comes to market like this, likely won't win any design awards (photo) >

The company says it's being targeted to buyers who have very short commutes. It can recharge while parked in any open space exposed to direct sunlight, but, according to ZAP Chairman Gary Starr, "if you want to ensure 100 percent solar generated commuting, you can purchase a larger charging system that can sit on your rooftop."

In the most literal use of the phrase 'your mileage may vary', Starr points out that, without a rooftop solar array, the length of your ride will be a direct function of how sunny a day it is.

While designed to satisfy buyers' environmental concerns and desire for energy independence, ZAP points to other advantages of using solar panels with an electric car. The company cites studies that show solar power charging systems double the life of electric car batteries, and point out that panels consume no fuel and have no moving parts to wear out. The occasional wash (not you, the solar panel) is recommended for highest performance.

And, says ZAP chairman Gary Starr, they're cheap. "The XERO will be roughly $2,000 more than new XEBRAs, so expect a street price of $12,000 USD."

While the company should be applauded for its efforts, this first model isn't exactly expected to ignite the passions of the automotive industry, in the opinion of one analyst.

Specialty vehicle analyst Bruce Harrison, a senior consultant with IHS Global Insight, was diplomatic.

"I suspect the solar nature is going to limit the ability of the vehicle to be useful beyond a certain range. It's clearly not going to be for everybody, but it's an interesting step," he said, pointing out that there are always compromises with alternative fuel vehicles.

The XERO's unusual appearance could be off-putting to some buyers, he warned. "The solar panel looks almost like a roof rack. If they'd style it better they could pull it off. The real limiting factor could be the jellybean shape, however. And how about I stop there?"

Styling matters. And ZAP acknowledges this. "At the San Francisco auto show next week, if we're lucky, you might see another version of it," hinted ZAP's Starr, who says he drives a Smart Car to work every day, himself. "We definitely see the form factor evolving."

Where can you buy a XERO? ZAP has cultivated a network of 17 dealers today, with more coming soon. The first models will be available for purchase at the San Francisco auto show November 18th-26th.

Since 1994, ZAP has delivered 90,000 electric vehicles to customers in more than 75 countries.

For more information:

www.zapworld.com