Mark Frohnmayer founded arcimoto with the intent of developing an affordable, effective and enjoyable alternative to driving cars that will brighten anyone’s day when seen.
Eugene-based Eugene Electric Vehicle Company manufactures low-cost electric three-wheeled vehicles at an attractive cost point. Once valued at $1 billion, however, its finances have since suffered severely; recently warning of “substantial doubt” it can continue operating normally.
The FUV ARCIMOTO
Though priced at almost $20,000 and only available through limited distribution channels, the FUV is an innovative vehicle that challenges convention. Featuring its distinctive three-wheeled design and 75 kW electric motor that provide both exhilarating speed and impressive efficiency – making it the ideal vehicle for today’s conscientious drivers.
The arcimoto team spent years honing the ergonomics of the FUV’s ride and handling to achieve an enjoyable driving experience that blurs man and machine. The FUV transforms everyday commutes into heartfelt excursions while offering drivers new scenic routes to discover and reignite their love of driving.
To achieve dynamic handling on their FUV, the team employed handlebars with twist throttles and brakes similar to bike brakes as an alternative control method, fashion shortening overall vehicle length by two feet while cutting 600 pounds from its weight; both factors contributed to an increase in range.
As for safety, the FUV is far safer than motorcycles thanks to its three wheels and dual seatbelts for each occupant. In addition, an in-house developed traction control software uses power steering voodoo technology for speed-appropriate handling and steering input control that feels natural when traveling at high speeds – keeping its drivers stable and in control on a wide variety of road surfaces.
The MUV ARCIMOTO
If you need to transport heavy loads, MUVs may be an ideal solution. These vehicles offer high performance without compromising safety systems; additionally they can accommodate multiple passengers so that your journey is comfortable and stress-free.
Major rental companies now provide MUVs on rent-a-car basis, making it convenient to access these vehicles whenever necessary. Furthermore, many of these cars come equipped with multiple seating arrangements to meet different client requirements. You may even opt for custom configurations tailored specifically to your needs – like Cameo variants suitable for filming.
The MUV is a customizable modular vehicle that can be upgraded to meet your specific needs. Its central chassis features a Hotdock interface which enables modules such as science packages, human drive controls and extra batteries for navigation during 14-day Lunar nights to dock onto its central chassis and connect directly.
The MUV, manufactured by the company’s latest model is an electric utility vehicle with a small footprint that can travel up to 102 miles on one charge. Available in three flavors including Cargo with its flatbed for hauling cargo up to 240 pounds at once; Utility adds “West Coast” half doors and seatback organizer.
The E-Trike ARCIMOTO
E-trikes, or electric tricycles, offer an enjoyable way to exercise while covering short distances. Like bicycles, these trikes provide low-impact cardio exercise and increased endurance benefits as well as convenient comfort.
when purchasing an e-trike, it is essential to take several factors into consideration, including motor power and battery life. A more powerful motor allows for greater speed and hill climbing ability while larger batteries provide extended range. In addition, ergonomic considerations should also be taken into account such as seat height and handlebar positioning.
Regular use of an e-trike can strengthen muscles in your legs, core, arms, while building strength and improving balance. Furthermore, regular usage can also help to reduce cholesterol and increase cardiovascular endurance. To get the most from your workout sessions on an e-trike be sure to maintain proper posture while monitoring heart rate; and follow all safety regulations when riding.
The Commercial Vehicle ARCIMOTO
At $70,000 or so, the FUV may make sense as an urban second vehicle or local delivery or courier services. With its robust 102-mile battery electric powertrain and crash sensor that disengages it upon impact as well as two three-point safety seatbelts (requiring you to buckle up twice), there’s plenty to offer here.
Frohnmayer remains optimistic about Arcimoto expanding beyond its current niche market. Americans still primarily prefer four wheels; however, as more Americans move into dense cities where parking space is limited and larger cars don’t fit easily, a trike may prove useful for getting around more easily.
Arcimoto customers have already started forming online relationships among themselves and owners have formed strong bonds among themselves online, meeting for rides in Eugene and beyond, sharing tips via Facebook groups, and feeling strongly loyal to their company despite its financial struggles.
Chris Dawson, the company’s new CEO, is on a mission to make that possible. Recently he discussed their diverse product portfolio and future plans with EV Report; read the interview in full here. Currently they produce one FUV daily at their plant in Oregon but plan to increase that production rate shortly to two per day.
