LincVolt | |
---|---|
Overview | |
Manufacturer | Ford |
Production | 1959 |
Assembly |
Wixom, Michigan, United States (Wixom Assembly Plant) |
Designer | John Najjar |
Body and chassis | |
Class | large car (EPA) |
Body style | 2-door convertible |
Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive |
Powertrain | |
Engine |
Plug-in hybrid 150 kW (200 hp)electric motor/generator units Capstone Microturbine 30 kilowatts (40 hp) range extender/internal combustion engine biodiesel |
Transmission | none |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 131.0 in (3,327 mm) |
Length | 1959: 227.1 in (5,768 mm) |
Width | 1959: 80.1 in (2,035 mm) |
Height | 1959: 56.7 in (1,440 mm) |
Curb weight | 5,000–5,700 lb (2,300–2,600 kg) |
Chronology | |
Predecessor | Lincoln Continental |
LincVolt is a 1959 Lincoln Continental, owned by musician Neil Young, that was converted into a more fuel-efficient, hybrid demonstrator vehicle.
According to the LincVolt website, the goal of the LincVolt project is "to inspire a generation by creating a clean automobile propulsion technology that serves the needs of the 21st Century and delivers performance that is a reflection of the driver's spirit. By creating this new power technology, Lincvolt hopes to reduce the demand for petro-fuels enough to eliminate the need for war over energy supplies, thereby enhancing the security of the USA and other nations throughout the world."
LincVolt participated in the Xprize Progressive Insurance Automotive X Prize. The LincVolt team had to withdraw from the X Prize competition as they were making a car whereas the purpose of the competition was to produce a commercial business plan.
A documentary film was being produced by Larry Johnson before his death on January 21, 2010.
On the morning of November 9, 2010, a fire started in LincVolt's charging system while it was recharging at a warehouse belonging to Young. The car was damaged, but it has been restored. The last version of the LincVolt's hybrid engine uses Domestic-Green Carbon-Neutral Cellulosic Ethanol from Biomass.
In 2010 Neil Young gave a speech at the Specialty Equipment Market Association convention.