Prototype completed for new ZAP electric truck

In the latest news from electric vehicle specialists ZAP, a running prototype has been completed for the low-speed, 770 pound payload ZAP XL Truck ahead of expected delivery of the vehicle in Q3 2008. Reservations are also now being accepted for the much anticipated, 100mph, 3-wheeled Alias highway electric car which is expected to hit the market next year at a cost of USD$32,500.

The big-brother of the 3-wheel Zebra truck, the new ZAP XL boasts a 58" long X 53" wide X 11.5" deep cargo bed and can carry payloads of up to 770 pounds (compared with 500 pounds for the Zebra). Designed for low-speed, urban applications, the zero local emissions, two-seater XL Truck will be priced at under USD$15K when it's released later this year.

California-based ZAP also has its eye on the global marketplace and according to the company, the XL will be designed to meet or exceed government certifications in order to facilitate distribution throughout most of the world. ZAP established a joint venture manufacturing and distribution agreement with the Youngman Automotive Group in China in 2007.

ZAP is also accepting reservations for the high speed ALIAS 3-wheeler. Though no prototype has yet been shown, the ALIAS is impressively specced with the front wheel drive EV expected to achieve 0 – 60 mph in 7.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 100mph with a range of more than 100 miles per charge.

Read our previous coverage of the ALIAS here or visit the ZAP site for reservation information and further details on both vehicles.