New automaker Connaught Motor Co. (UK) announced that it is hoping to put its first project, the Type-D gas/electric hybrid coupe, into production. Connaught reported that the Type-D would feature the world's first V-10 hybrid engine. The company said the car will be able to accelerate from 0 mph to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, and will be able to reach 140 mph while delivering 42 mpg fuel economy. The Type-D has sports car proportions, a tiny back seat and the ability to comply with ultra-low emissions targets set for 2010.
The idea for the Type-D came from two consultant engineers formerly employed by Ford Motor's Jaguar subsidiary. To date, the project has received almost $900,000 in funding from the Energy Saving Trust and has at least 17 patents pending for its technology. Connaught will design the car and manage the project, but will outsource manufacturing to EPM Technology, a company based in Derby, Great Britain. Connaught wants the car to have a base price of around $63,000. While EPM Technology would build the vehicle, Coventry University would collaborate with Connaught on the car's styling.
Connaught is seeking further investment in order to put the car into production in May 2006. To do this, it will need to raise about $9 million, according to the company.
