ZAP Electric Cars Expands into Alt Fuels

Electric car maker ZAP of Santa Rose, CA, has partnered with Lotus Engineering and Brazilian car manufacturer Obvio! to produce and distribute alternative-energy vehicles. ZAP is working with Lotus to develop a high-performance crossover SUV electric car concept called ZAP-X. The car will utilize energy-efficient gas systems, hydrogen, electric, fuel cell, ethanol, hybrid and other alternative power systems. ZAP is also entered into a distribution agreement with Obvio! to distribute the company's micro-cars that are designed to run on ethanol, gasoline or any combination of the two energy sources.

ZAP recently opened up new distribution for its all-electric cars and trucks in Portland, OR. ZAP's electric vehicles, the Xebra sedan, truck and scooter are designed as gas-free transportation for urban driving. The cars can reach up to 40 mph and they are priced just over $10,000.