Defiant EV From Shockwave Offers Affordable Electric Motoring

The Defiant EV from Shockwave Motors in Tennessee is a combination of many design influences. It is a three wheeler, which reduces rolling resistance and improves aerodynamic performance. It has a top speed of over 70 mph and maximum range of 175 miles or more. Best of all, the company says the standard 100 amp/144 volt lithium ion battery  can be recharged in just 8 hours using a standard 120 volt household outlet.

Shockwave president John MacMillan tells Gas 2 via e-mail, “Convenience, low operating cost, and simplicity are what set us apart. We don’t need any new infrastructure or special charging stations – just a simple 120 volt outlet – at home or at work! This gives the roadster an effective range of up to 200 miles per day. The top speed is about 75 MPH. No other electric vehicle, with our level of performance, can get a complete recharge in about 8 hours from a standard wall outlet.”

The styling of the Shockwave Defiant is far from ordinary. It looks like a cross between a Delta Wing race car and something that ZZ Top would feature on an album cover, mixed in with a hint of cars that were featured on The Munsters. According to Gizmag, the Defiant seats three people. The driver rides up front with space for two passengers behind. There is also a trunk at the rear for carrying things like suitcases and picnic hampers.

MacMillan claims the long wheelbase, wide rear stance and the majority of its weight being located in the back all keep the Defiant stable in turns. The car weighs just 1500 pounds. 0-60 with the standard battery takes under 10 seconds. Safety features include a tubular steel frame with a built-in roll bar, along with front and rear crumple zones. Road bumps are handled by a dual A arm suspension, coil-over shocks, and dual springs in both the front and rear.

Range with the standard battery is 100 miles. MacMillan says with the optional battery, that can be extended to 175 miles or more. Regenerative braking can help maximize range. He is John is hoping to begin production of the Defiant sometime this year. The expected sale price is $24,950, which includes a stereo system, heater and defroster. The car may also be available in roadster form, for those who like their electric motoring experience to include that “wind in your hair” feeling.