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South Africa has been getting headlines as of late for it’s technological advancements, amongst other things.

Based in Cape Town, South Africa the Optimal Energy company has designed a vehicle that seems very interesting to say the least.

Meet the Joule. It has contemporary styling, designed by Keith Helfet (Jaguar XJ-220 and F-Type). It is planned for production in late 2010.

Inside, the MPV has room for

6 and a large cargo area. Powered by lithium-ion batteries it is expected to have a short term range of 200km or about 125 miles. With it’s optional battery, the range jumps to 400km or 250 miles.



It’s steel space frame uses carbon composite components along with plastic body panels to save weight.

Optimal Energy claims it will take no longer then 7 hours to charge the batteries on the Joule and the approximate top speed is 130km/h or 80mph.

No pricing has been released as of date.

Initially the Joule will be available in front wheel drive, but additional motors will allow the Joule to be built in an all wheel drive configuration as well.








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