The Arcimoto FUV – photo: TFL
It’s not a trike, it’s an FUV – a “Fun Utility Vehicle”
The Arcimoto FUV is a three-wheel all-electric vehicle that can hold two people and drive up to 130 miles on a single charge. “FUV” stands for Fun Utility Vehicle. While it isn’t that utilitarian, it is fun to drive. Powered by a pair of 25-kW motors that make a combined 67 horsepower, the Arcimoto FUV can go up to 70 miles on the standard 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. If that’s not enough, it can go up to 130 miles on the larger 20kWh battery pack.
According to Arcimoto, the FUV can go from 0 to 60 in 7.5-seconds and hit a top speed of 80 mph. Weighing in at 1,100-lbs (before accessories) the trike’s ability to house add-ons is impressive. Items like soft and hard-sided doors, a locking rear trunk and a delivery pod (which can be heated or cooled) are available.
What about safety?
The Arcimoto FUV comes with dual seatbelts for each of the two seats. One is a classic shoulder and lap belt combo and the other seatbelt is just a shoulder belt. Combined, they create an ‘X’ over both shoulders mimicking racing seatbelts, to a degree.
Since it’s classified as a motorcycle, you may need a helmet and a motorcycle license depending on the state in which you live, like Colorado. It is a mostly enclosed cockpit with a glass roof sitting atop beefy support bars. There’s a proper windshield with a large, single windshield wiper.
Some of the controls are counterintuitive (the whole braking system is more motorcycle than car), but this is a preproduction example which should have updates before deliveries commence. I will say, it’s not for everyone and I highly recommend you sample one before buying.
Pricing
hile prices start at $11,900, an Arcimoto spokesperson said they expect to sell a majority with upgrades which will average around $15,000. By the way, Arcimoto, Inc. (FUV) is publicly-traded. Kind of surprising I know, but, at least it’s a real company with a real product – unlike others. Full-scale production will begin soon.
Speaking of trikes…
