Arcimoto EV fun utility vehicle production begins

Arcimoto has announced that it is hosting a launch event today in Eugene, Oregon where it will unveil its retail production Fun Utility Vehicle (FUV). The EVs promise an "era of ultra-efficient electric transportation." The company claims that its EVs are good for 173.7 MPGe in city driving.

The company says that fulfillment of the FUV to retail customers is underway in California, Oregon, and Washington. The FUV has a top speed of 75 mph and is EPA rated to go 102.5 miles per charge. FUV buyers get heated seats, heated grips, Bluetooth speakers, removable half doors, lockable rear storage, HOV lane access, and a Level 1 charging cable.

Buyers get to choose their own base and accent colors. The FUV has an MSRP of $19,900 before any tax credits and rebates. The company notes that in some locations, FUV buyers qualify for sales tax exemptions, utility rate discounts, free parking, toll discounts, insurance discounts, and other benefits.

Arcimoto says that the FUV is the first in a series of EVs built on the same platform. The series will include a last-mile delivery vehicle called the Deliverator and a Rapid Responder for EMS and campus security.

Arcimoto says that it has a backlog of 4,128 preordered FUVs as of June 30, 2019. That is 28% higher than the 3,217 preorders that the company had on December 31, 2018. It's unclear what size battery the FUV uses and how long it will take to recharge. The vehicle uses a three-wheel design with two wheels in front and a single wheel in the back. It appears to have no side windows, but it does appear to have a clear top.