SAM Reborn As Re-Volt In Poland

In an alternate universe/ distopian world, Jeremy Clarkson would be punished for his excesses by being forced to drive one of these. Say 'hello!' to the Re-Volt (no, really, that's its honest to God name). It used be called SAM, but now they've resurrected it, and are building it in Poland, calling it the Re-Volt and will actually be trying to sell it.

You know, I've got nothing against electric vehicles, conceptually speaking. I don't care how I get down the road, just as long as I can do it quickly, with as much style as doesn't get in the way. Gasoline fueled or EV, don't make that much difference to me.

But honestly guys, if you green car makers, EV proponents et al want to be taken seriously by me (and, by extension, other gearheads out there) you have GOT TO STOP MAKING THINGS LIKE THIS!!! Seriously. For the love of Vishnu, what are you thinking? John Waters would drive a "car" this dorky.

The Re-Volt is being constructed in, and sold only in the Polish market at the moment (thankfully). The thing will set you back 60,200 Polish zlotych, which is around $20,780, or about 14,000 Euros. Which, is about $19,000 too much, but that's just my opinion. For that many zlotych, you'll get a 7 kWh Kokam lithium ion battery as well as an on-board charger, electric locks and a heater.

For what is described as a "reasonable" number of more zlotychs you can upgrade to a Blaupunkt, get heated seats, a reverse camera with LCD display and alloy wheels. The range is said to me around 60 miles i.e. 100 km and the Re-Volt will top out at a leisurely 55 mph.

Braking-wise the Re-Volt has a two-stage brake regeneration system. Lift your foot off the "gas" and the Re-Volt applies a little of the regenerative braking system, and then will bring in full braking regeneration when you get fully on the stop pedal.

So, in a bunch of ways, it's pretty standard for an electric "car"... but did they have to make it look like that? And did the have to paint it that color?

Source: AutoBlogGreen