At 287 cm long and 165.1 cm in height, the FUV is a small package made in Eugene, in a variety of bright colors. With a range of 102 miles, a top speed of 75 mph, and wall outlet charge capacity for its NMC Lithium-Ion battery, the makers seemed to be trying to blend both the fun and utility aspects of the vehicle. It offers more than solid performance for its size.
Its size, however, holds it back somewhat. It’s more of an electric trike/motorcycle, legally speaking than an electric car. This means that specific motorcycle licenses and helmets may be required to drive them, depending on laws in a given state. Arcimoto notes though, that “by demonstrating how simple it is to operate Arcimoto vehicles, we are working with legislators around the country to create exemptions for helmet and license requirements.”
By doing so, it would be possible to open up Arcimoto’s products to a wider potential base. Such restrictions aren’t universally deemed necessary because the FUV boasts features such as the seatbelt and full body sported by other vehicles, which leaves those inside less exposed, whether to the elements or to potential accidents.
The FUV’s goal was to establish itself as more than a hobby vehicle, and the inclusion of mods such as heated seats demonstrates this. However, Arcimoto has had a very difficult time both developing the vehicles and getting them to customers to date.