eBay Find: Unique Mobility Electrek

Most of the time, saying something will go from zero to 30 in nine seconds isn’t really something one would be inclined to advertise. But when said vehicle is an exceptionally rare electric car built under a military contract in the ’70s, it’s seems worth mentioning. To be honest, I’d never heard of Unique Mobility’s Electrek until I saw this eBay auction, and while the styling of the vehicle is unquestionably weak—what were they aiming for, an uglier version of the Gremlin?—it’s pretty cool that regenerative braking was being applied during the malaise era, and the 75MPH top speed seems pretty reasonable. Full text of the auction and more pics after the jump.

Unique Mobility Inc. Electrek,  Very Rare one of 75 ever made

This one is rare even for Ebay.  Here isthe story as I know it.  Unique Mobility a Colorado company did sometesting for military contracts back in the late 70s.  Part of that wasto manufacture an electric vehicle that was usable on modern roads sohere is what they came up with.  The Electrek uses sixteen six voltdeep cycle batteries for power and plugs into the wall for charging(approx 12 hours to full).  The car is a small 2 door sedan that seats4 it comes with a 4 speed standard transmission, an electric heater,and radio.  It drives like any small car however there is very littlenoise, it will also regenerate power as you slow down.  Listed beloware the performance and features.

Performance

Max speed 75 mph

Acceleration 0-30 mph in 9 seconds

City driving range 75 miles

Range at 30 mph 100 miles

Recharge cost per mile (1979) $.1 @ $.5 per KWH

Recharge time Approx 12 hours Milage may differ depending on speed, distance, weather, driving habits and condition of batteries

Features

All fiberglass unitized body/chassis

96 volt 32 hp motor

Fully transistorized controller

Modular electronic components

Regenerative braking

Centrally located battery tray

5 minute battery change

Front wheel drive

Rack and pinion steering

Front disk brakes

Sun roof

Curb weight 2650lb

This particular car is in great shapefor it’s age.  I just took the old batteries out because they were over15 years old and the range was depleted, the car comes withoutbatteries.  The cost for a new set will be under $2000.00 I will helpinstall new ones depending on the winning bidders desires.  The car hasno damage or issues the body is in great shape with just a few minorscratches from storage.  The tires are fairly worn and it could use anew set, and the sun roof doesn’t open because is was sealed up yearsago to prevent leaks.  The interior is just as it was in 1979 when itwas new (blue velour).  I am the second owner of the car and the firstone was a relative who used it during the 80s to commute to workdaily.  Everything works as advertised and the car is great for shortdaily drives.  This car will be one of the most collectable electriccars because it works well and they made so few.  I will be glad toshow anyone the car before the auction closes.  Also included in thisauction is the battery tray used to remove the battery pack forservice.  I also have some origanal paperwork including salesliterature.