| Year
(of specifications) |
2007 |
| Engine |
petrol/electric
hybrid |
| Transmission |
Constantly
variable, RWD |
| Max
speed |
- |
| 0-60
mph |
3.9
seconds |
| Horsepower |
350
hp |
| weight |
998
kg / 2200 lbs |
The
M-80 hybrid sports car from Palumbo Cars, an American company
specialising in hybrid vehicles, is a fuel efficient and environmentally
friendly hybrid petrol-electric two seater with performance
credentials superior to most conventional sports cars.
The convertible Palumbo M-80 features a unique roll bar designed
to maximize structural rigidity. The chassis of the M-80 is
a lightweight spaceframe unit designed for performance and comfort.
Featuring unequal length A-arms and coil-over springs both front
and rear.
Laid out in a mid-engine, rear wheel drive format the Palumbo
M-80 uses state-of-the-art automotive and aerospace materials.
The chassis is made mostly of Aluminum alloys, employing epoxy
bonding, riveting, and welding. The exterior is comprised of
composite materials.
Power for the Palumbo M-80 comes from the hybrid petrol-electric
unit which uses the electric motor, an internal combustion engine,
or both simultaneously to drive the wheels. For times when high
acceleration is needed, both the internal combustion engine
and the electric motor power the drive wheels at the same time.
The feeling of the electric motor supplementing the IC engine
is similar to feeling the surge from a low pressure turbocharger.
The driver feels a substantial power increase that comes on
very linear and is easy to control in all driving and racing
situations. The electric motor supplies this additional power
boost with little or no effect on fuel mileage. Recharging of
the Palumbo M-80's battery is done through regenerative braking
and running a generator off the petrol engine. Fuel economy
for the Palumbo M-80 is around 46mpg.
The 350 horsepower which is created by the hybrid system is
transferred to the rear wheels through a constantly variable
transmission. This keeps the gearing just perfect to match with
the engine's efficiency and peak power band.
Inside the Palumbo M-80 materials used include leather, aluminium,
and quality carpeting.
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